Nuclear medicine and cardiology: the position of the Union of European Medical Specialists/Section of Nuclear Medicine.

This paper summarizes a communication presented at the Second International Conference of Nuclear Cardiology, held in Cannes on 23-26 April 1995. The general evolution of nuclear medicine in Europe is examined within the context of European Union Directives, and the role of the Union of European Medical Specialists/Section of Nuclear Medicine is discussed. Thereafter consideration is given to the technical aspects of cardiovascular nuclear medicine procedures, and the situation with respect to such procedures in European countries is examined. In most European countries, nuclear medicine is a recognized specialty, while "nuclear cardiology" does not exist in its own right. In general, only nuclear medicine specialists have the responsibility for radionuclide studies, and most cardiovascular studies are performed under the direct responsibility of a licensed nuclear medicine specialist.