Theranostics in Practice: Lessons Learned from Clinical Perspectives—Part 1

Theranostics is changing how we approach treatment in nuclear medicine. Combining targeted imaging with radiopharmaceutical therapy allows us to personalize care in ways that were not previously possible. As this field grows, so does the need for strong coordination, clear protocols, and effective teamwork. From the technologist's perspective, these treatments are rewarding but also complex, requiring attention to detail and flexibility in clinical care. This article shares lessons learned from working directly with patients and teams involved in delivering theranostics care. It covers practical takeaways in patient selection, imaging setup, scan preparation, and therapy workflows, with specific examples from thyroid cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, and prostate cancer. We also reflect on how communication, posttherapy follow-up, and technologist-led problem-solving can significantly impact patient outcomes and satisfaction. Through every phase, we highlight the importance of collaboration, clarity, and preparation in making these therapies successful. We share these lessons as a reflection of what we have learned thus far in this evolving field. Every step has taught us something new about the care we provide, the teams with whom we work, and the impact we can have. As technologists, we are proud to be part of this next chapter in nuclear medicine.