Integrating Nuclear Medicine Services Into Health Care Systems in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Review of Challenges and Innovations

Abstract

ABSTRACT The burden of noncommunicable diseases is increasing rapidly in low‐ and middle‐income countries creating a growing need for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Nuclear medicine offers great potential in disease detection, treatment planning, and monitoring, yet its integration into resource‐limited health systems remains challenging. This review synthesizes evidence from peer‐reviewed publications and relevant reports from international agencies to examine barriers to, and enablers of, nuclear medicine adoption in these settings. We found that key obstacles include financial constraints, restricted access to essential materials, insufficient regulatory frameworks, and shortages of skilled professionals. These gaps contribute to safety concerns, inadequate waste management, and delays in service delivery. Although global initiatives have strengthened workforce training and promoted regulatory harmonization, persistent issues in financial sustainability and retention of trained staff hinder progress. Technological advances, such as novel imaging and therapeutic approaches, present opportunities; however, their successful implementation requires context‐specific strategies that align with local infrastructure and policy realities. Integrating nuclear medicine into health systems in low‐resource environments can address multiple health care priorities simultaneously, but this will require targeted investment, sustainable financing mechanisms, and strengthened institutional capacity. Collaborative international support, coupled with locally adapted policies, could accelerate equitable access and improve patient outcomes. Expanding the role of nuclear medicine in these regions has the potential to significantly enhance health care delivery and contribute to closing the global disparity in advanced medical services.