The medical system has an important role in response to a radiological emergency. Although the Radiation Emergency Medical Preparedness and Assistance Network (REMPAN) exists, every country must provide elements of preparedness of a national medical system for managing radiological emergencies.

A research group consisting of experts reviewed the literature and related plans; International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards also were considered. Based on a three-level approach, preparedness elements of the national medical system were determined.

An emergency medical services (EMS) team for each district is to be trained. The competence of the team members, requisite equipment, procedures for rapidly preparing an ambulance, triage, and decontamination procedures were compiled. For each province, a prepared general hospital and its teams should develop: (1) radiological assessment capability; (2) triage; and (3) decontamination preparedness intervention. A radiation emergency receiving area, equipment list, personal protective equipment, and cooperation with specialized centers were considered. Each country must have a specialized hospital for medical management, training, and connection with REMPAN. All specialized departments, unique instruments, specific drugs, and'necessary procedures were defined. Also, tlie development of a mobile medical support team that could be accessed from the region.

Although radiological emergencies are rare, a national medical system must provide a comprehensive emergency management plan and be prepared for incidents.