Under IR(ME)R, what is the term that describes the necessity for the benefits of exposing a patient to ionising radiation to outweigh the risks?

The term that describes the requirement for the benefits of exposing a patient to ionising radiation to outweigh the risks is justification. Justification is a fundamental principle under the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IR(ME)R). It emphasizes that any medical exposure to ionising radiation should only occur if the anticipated benefits to the patient are greater than the potential risks associated with that exposure.

This principle is crucial in clinical practice, ensuring that healthcare professionals carefully evaluate and determine whether a specific radiological examination or treatment is necessary for achieving a positive outcome for the patient.

Optimisation relates to ensuring that radiation doses are kept as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP) while still achieving the required medical objectives. Quality assurance involves systematic processes designed to maintain the quality of care and outcomes in medical imaging. Risk assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating risks, but it does not specifically address the balance of benefits versus risks in medical exposure directly.

Thus, justification serves as the primary ethical and regulatory standard for evaluating the appropriateness of patient exposure to ionising radiation in medical procedures.