Nuclear safety procedures in Germany’s nuclear medicine departments
A guide for foreign visitors to receive safe, licensed treatment

Nuclear medicine (Nuklearmedizin) is widely used in Germany to diagnose and treat a range of conditions, including cancer, thyroid diseases, bone disorders, and heart diseases. Because these procedures involve radioactive materials, safety standards are extremely strict—especially for patients arriving from outside the European Union.
In this article, we explain how nuclear safety procedures are applied in German hospitals, and what foreign patients should know before undergoing any nuclear diagnostic test or treatment.

What is nuclear medicine?
It is a medical specialty that uses very small amounts of radioactive substances (radiopharmaceuticals / Radiopharmaka) to image organs or treat specific diseases. Common examples include:
• Schilddrüsenszintigrafie (thyroid scan)
• PET-CT for tumor diagnostics
• Radionuclide therapy (Radionuklidtherapie) for certain cancers (such as thyroid treatment with radioactive iodine iodine-131)

Germany’s radiation protection regulations
Any facility practicing nuclear medicine is under strict oversight through:
• the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS)
• the Radiation Protection Act (Strahlenschutzgesetz – StrlSchG)
• the Radiation Protection Ordinance for medical applications (Strahlenschutzverordnung – StrlSchV)
These frameworks require, among other measures:
• using the lowest possible dose (ALARA principle)
• storing radioactive materials under precise protocols
• shielding/isolating rooms used for radiation-related treatment
• regular monitoring of equipment and the radiation environment
• mandatory training for all medical staff handling radioactive materials

How are foreign patients protected during nuclear treatment?
• Written informed consent (Einwilligungserklärung): explaining risks, alternatives, and the purpose of the procedure.
• Pre-treatment testing: such as blood tests and kidney function checks to assess suitability for radiation exposure.
• Temporary stay in isolated rooms: if receiving certain therapies (e.g., iodine-131), patients may need to stay in a dedicated room, often 48–72 hours.
• Temporary restrictions after treatment: keeping distance from children and pregnant women for several days, with clear written instructions.
• Radiation certificate upon discharge: stating dose type and exposure date, useful at airports or for subsequent medical care.

Additional requirements for foreign patients
• Translate medical reports from your home country before the procedure or treatment.
• Provide international health insurance or pay costs in advance.
• You may be asked to sign a specific legal consent form with an accredited interpreter.
• In some cases, companions may not be allowed into the treatment unit for safety reasons.

Are there cases where nuclear medicine is not allowed for visitors?
Yes, including:
• pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• breastfeeding (temporary interruption may be required)
• acute severe kidney failure
• inability to remain isolated for several days
• insufficient financial guarantee to cover expenses

Notable German centers that accept foreign patients in nuclear medicine
• Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
• Uniklinik Freiburg – Nuklearmedizinische Klinik
• Klinikum rechts der Isar (TU München)
• Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg – Nuklearmedizin
• Universitätsklinikum Essen – Zentrum für Nuklearmedizin

Conclusion
Germany delivers nuclear medicine services at world-class standards, while patient safety remains the top priority. Every step—from diagnosis to treatment—follows strict procedures to ensure a safe and professional experience for foreign visitors.
If you are considering nuclear treatment in Germany, prepare your medical file in advance, speak with the hospital’s international coordinator, and follow radiation safety instructions carefully after treatment.

Note: The site’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through intensive research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat this as an initial reference and consult the competent authorities for verified guidance.