The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) is a not-for-profit professional medical society dedicated to advancing nuclear medicine and molecular imaging, improving patient care and providing educational opportunities for physicians, technologists, scientists and other health care professionals.
Nuclear medicine is a branch of medicine that uses radioactive materials to diagnose and treat disease. Nuclear medicine imaging tests provide doctors with valuable information about the function of organs or tissues. These images are then used to determine the best course of treatment for each patient.
Molecular imaging is a rapidly growing field that uses specialized techniques to visualize and quantify biological processes at the cellular and subcellular level. This information can be used to better understand the complex interactions between normal cells and diseased cells, ultimately leading to more effective treatments for patients.
SNMMI’s more than 17,000 members set the standard for excellence in nuclear medicine through their commitment to education, research and clinical practice. Members hail from around the world, representing every facet of nuclear medicine including academia, private practice, hospital-based clinics, government agencies and industry.
The Society provides its members with numerous resources including education programs, publications, a comprehensive website and networking opportunities with colleagues from all over the globe. In addition, SNMMI serves as an advocate for patients undergoing nuclear medicine procedures by working with policy makers to ensure access to high quality care.
The origins of SNMMI can be traced back to 1954 when a small group of pioneers in nuclear medicine came together to form the American Association of Physicians specializing in Nuclear Medicine (AAPNM). In 1966, AAPNM merged with the American Board of Nuclear Medicine (ABNM) to become the American College of Nuclear Physicians (ACNP). In 1976 ACNP became SNMMI following merger with two other organizations: The Society for Radioisotopes in Medical Education & Research (SRME&R) which had been founded in 1947;and The Academy Of Radiology And Diagnostic Imaging Technologists(ARDIT), which had been founded in 1960 as ARRT -the Academy Of Radiologic Technicians before adding “D” for diagnostic imaging in 1968 .
Overseen by a 21-member Board of Directors elected by membership vote , SNMMI’s organizational structure also includes 11 scientific councils responsible for specific content areas , 4 committees that focus on special projects or initiatives , 7 task forces created as neededto address emerging issues ,and finally our Foundation –the 501c3 non-profit affiliateof SNMMI which carries out philanthropic endeavors on behalf of our Society .