Certificate of competence in radiation protection

In order to carry out diagnostic and therapeutic X-ray examinations in the medium and high dose range, the "Radiation Protection Act" and the associated "Ordinance of the Federal Department of Home Affairs on training and permitted activities in radiation protection" require appropriate further training. With the certificate of competence "Certificate of competence in radiation protection in surgery (SGC)", doctors in the specialties listed in section 2.1 can document that they have in-depth knowledge in this field through targeted further and advanced training.

The certificate of competence permits the performance of X-ray examinations under the image converter (e.g. intraoperative assessment during fracture treatment, intraoperative cholangiography, punctures or repositioning in emergencies or in outpatient clinics). A separate qualification is required to operate and use an X-ray system (e.g. for a chest X-ray or an ankle X-ray).

What will change for postgraduate trainees / holders of specialist qualifications?

Postgraduate trainees

The following evidence must be provided to obtain the certificate of competence:

• Completion of the expert course for fluoroscopy for doctors in the high, medium and low dose range recognized by the Federal Office of Public Health (Art. 182 para. 2 StSV; www.radioprotection.ch) with theory, practical training and a pass in the examination. Foreign courses must be recognized by the Federal Office of Public Health.

• Proof of successful completion of the practical learning objectives in accordance with the certificate of competence as per the postgraduate training program.

• Proof of the federal specialist title in surgery (Facharzt für Chirurgie, Fachärztin für Chirurgie)

Transitional provisions and holders of the specialist title

Anyone who has completed postgraduate training as a specialist in surgery by June 30, 2025 will receive the certificate of competence in radiation protection without any further requirements. The same applies to holders of a recognized foreign specialist title who obtained the title before 1 July 2025. The certificate of competence is automatically entered in the relevant medical register. A printout on paper can be requested from the Swiss Society of Surgery for a fee of CHF 100.