Authorized User & Authorized Medical Physicist credentialing
Naming an AU and AMP on the radioactive-materials license is a prerequisite to any Ac-225 administration. The pathway depends on existing board certification and prior therapy experience. Start this paperwork early — agreement-state review can take 60-120 days.
Two pathways under 10 CFR Part 35
Board-certified pathway (§35.390 / §35.396)
Physicians board-certified in nuclear medicine or radiation oncology by a recognized board (ABNM, ABR, AOBR) may be named as AU for therapy without re-credentialing the didactic and clinical hours. The license amendment still requires a request letter and current CV.
Experience pathway (§35.390(b))
Physicians without the eligible board certification must document 700 hours of training and experience, including specified case minimums. Plan 9-18 months. Pair the trainee with an existing AU under a documented supervision plan from day one.
AMP requirements
Board certification
Most regulators accept ABR, ABMP, or CCPM certification in therapeutic medical physics or nuclear medical physics as the credentialing basis for AMP under §35.51.
Device & procedure familiarity
AMP must demonstrate competency on the specific dose calibrator settings, alpha-capable survey instruments, and any dosimetry methodology the program will use. Document with a signed competency checklist before first patient.
Program responsibilities
AMP signs off on calibration, instrument selection, dosimetry calculations (if performed), and any procedure changes. Build review cadence into the radiation safety committee calendar.
If your institution does not yet have an AU experienced in alpha therapy, identify an external AU consultant willing to be named on the license while internal staff build hours. This pattern is common and accepted by most regulators.
- 10 CFR §35.390 — Training for use of unsealed byproduct material requiring a written directive
- 10 CFR §35.51 — Training for an Authorized Medical Physicist
- NRC Regulatory Guide 8.39 — Release of Patients Administered Radioactive Material