When must QA tests on the TPS be conducted?

Quality assurance (QA) tests on a Treatment Planning System (TPS) are essential to ensure that the system operates correctly and produces accurate dose calculations for patient treatments. Conducting these tests during acceptance testing, when the system is first installed, is crucial for verifying that all specifications are met and that the system functions properly before it is put into clinical use.

Regular interval testing is also mandated as part of ongoing quality assurance. These routine checks help to identify any deviations or malfunctions in the TPS that could occur over time due to software updates, hardware changes, or other factors. Regular QA testing ensures continued compliance with safety and effectiveness standards, maintaining the integrity of treatment planning throughout the life of the system.

In contrast, limiting QA tests to only once a year does not provide sufficient oversight to catch potential issues that might arise at any other time. Testing whenever a new patient is treated or after every treatment session would be impractical and inefficient, as these scenarios do not explicitly address the systemic checks needed for the TPS. Instead, comprehensive QA protocols focus on a more systematic and scheduled approach, which ultimately supports optimal patient care and treatment accuracy.