The government signed its first sectorial agreement with medical physicists on Monday, a move that will affect 18 professionals.

Medical physicians, regulated by the Allied Health Care Profession, ensure safe and efficient use of medical equipment and reduction of risks from x-rays, radioactive material and strong magnetic fields among others.

Among others, they certify machines and regulate the dose of radiation required by oncology patients. 

The agreement was signed with UĦM - Voice of the Workers.

Health Minister Chris Fearne said on Monday that the relatively new skills were especially required at the Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre.

Over the past four years, employees were trained abroad in medical physics and the sectoral agreement would ensure their continuous development, he said.

An increase in human resources was part of the national cancer plan, the minister added.