Training to competence in interventional pulmonology

This special issue of Panminerva Medica includes a general part on core curriculum contents, innovative training methods including simulation, and introduces a series of articles describing in more detail and with the aid of illustrations, the knowledge and skills required for competency in each specific procedure: flexible bronchoscopy and basic sampling techniques, interventional endosonography (EBUS, EUS, EUS-B), bronchoscopic navigation, transbronchial cryobiopsy, operative bronchoscopy and related procedures, thoracic echography and pleural procedures, bronchoscopy in anesthesiology and ICU and thoracic surgery, emergencies, endoscopic treatment of emphysema and bronchial thermoplasty. It should be considered a starting point that will evolve over time. These standards need to be reviewed and approved by National and International Scientific Societies and Healthcare Institutions: the goal is to improve, disseminate and incorporate them in certified healthcare programs.