Optimization of ionizing radiation doses in the Iranian clinical radiological service

The structure of the health service in Iran has been described and the role and position of Radiology within the service explained. A comparison has been made between the current basic recommendations and requirement of the IAEA for a radiology service and requirements as laid down in the Iranian legislation. Omissions have been high lighted and suggestions made as how the Iran legislation could be improved to ensure full compliance. An analysis of the structure of Radiology in Iran has been made and recommendations made as to the improvements which should be made to being staffing levels and training up to minimum international levels. Measurements of patient and staff doses received during radiology in Iran are reported and from these estimates of potential population dose made. Cost benefit analysis has been undertaken with regard to these doses and recommendations made with regard to the optimum steps that could be taken to reduce patient and staff dose. (author)