1
|
McNulty JP. Radiography: Celebrating our reviewers and authors. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:1240-1242. [PMID: 38937214 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- J P McNulty
- University College Dublin, School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Dublin, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Paterson A, Devlin L, Mitchell J, Ogg J, Farnan K, Coupland S, Duffton A. Survey of research attitudes of RTTs working in Scotland: A Scottish radiographer research forum collaboration. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2024; 30:100248. [PMID: 38707714 PMCID: PMC11067355 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2024.100248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Evidence-based practice (EBP) is associated with improved treatment outcomes and survival in cancer patients. Engagement from therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists (RTTs) in research, has been identified as a challenge. The aim of this survey was to gain an understanding of RTT attitudes to research in Scotland. Methods This was a prospective study that used a mixed method cross-sectional survey, with an online survey tool (Webropol). The survey was developed with collaborators from all Scottish Radiotherapy Centres (n = 5) and piloted by 6 conveniently sampled RTT and validated by 8 experienced RTTs. The survey comprised 29 items, 7 selection-based demographic questions, and 18 statements with a Likert 5-point metric scale rating (1 = strongly disagree, 2 = disagree, 3 = neutral, 4 = agree, 5 = strongly agree). The validity was measured with the content validity index (CVI) and item-CVI by 8 experienced RTTs. Low scoring I-CVI (<0.78) questions were removed.A total of 314 RTTs working in Scottish Radiotherapy Centres were invited to participate. Approvals were given by each Head of department (HoD), who also confirmed number of RTTs. Results A total of 102/314 (32.5 %) RTTs responded. The majority of RTTs agreed they were confident they had sufficient research skills to inform EBP (n = 58/102, 56.9 %), felt confident discussing EBP with colleagues (n = 67, 65.7 %) and felt research was important for role development (n = 89, 87.2 %). Low mean scores and standard deviation (SD) were observed for the following: "I know how to get involved in research" 3.2 (1.2), "I have been given the opportunity to get involved in research" 3.2 (1.1), and "I am well informed about current research projects in my department" 3.2 (1.1). 57.8 % (n = 59) of RTTs disagreed they were confident adequate time would be provided to be involved in research. Conclusion The survey results demonstrated a predominantly positive attitude to research amongst RTTs working in Scottish centres, with most common perceived barriers being access to protected time and staff; training, and support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Paterson
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Lynsey Devlin
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences and University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Mitchell
- Edinburgh Cancer Centre, Fettes College, 2 Carrington Road, Edinburgh EH4 1QJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline Ogg
- Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty Farnan
- Ninewells Radiotherapy Department, James Arrott Drive, Dundee DD2 1UB, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Coupland
- Raigmore Hospital Inverness, Old Perth Road, Inverness IV2 3UJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Aileen Duffton
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences and University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Brennan N, Burns L, Mattick K, Mitchell A, Henderson T, Walker K, Gale T. How prepared are newly qualified allied health professionals for practice in the UK? A systematic review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081518. [PMID: 38749689 PMCID: PMC11097844 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES It is important that allied health professionals (AHPs) are prepared for clinical practice from the very start of their working lives to provide quality care for patients, for their personal well-being and for retention of the workforce. The aim of this study was to understand how well newly qualified AHPs were prepared for practice in the UK. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, ERIC and BEI were searched from 2012 to 2024. Grey literature searching and citation chasing were also conducted. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included primary studies reporting the preparedness for practice of UK graduates across 15 professions; all study types; participants included graduates who were up to 2 years postgraduation, their supervisors, trainers, practice educators and employers; and all outcome measures. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS A standardised data extraction form was used. Studies were quality assessed using the Quality Appraisal for Diverse Studies tool. 10% of articles were independently double-screened, extracted and quality assessed; 90% was completed by one researcher. RESULTS 14 reports were included (9 qualitative, 3 mixed-method and 2 quantitative). Six papers focused on radiographers, three on a mixture of professions, two on paramedics, and one each on physiotherapists, clinical psychologists and orthotists. An important finding of the review is the paucity and low-medium quality of research on the topic. The narrative synthesis tentatively suggests that graduates are adequately prepared for practice with different professions having different strengths and weaknesses. Common areas of underpreparedness across the professions were responsibility and decision-making, leadership and research. Graduates were generally well prepared in terms of their knowledge base. CONCLUSION High-quality in-depth research is urgently needed across AHPs to elucidate the specific roles, their nuances and the areas of underpreparedness. Further work is also needed to understand the transition into early clinical practice, ongoing learning opportunities through work, and the supervision and support structures in place. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022382065.
Collapse
|
4
|
Oliveira C, Barbosa B, Couto JG, Bravo I, Hughes C, McFadden S, Khine R, McNair HA. Advanced practice in radiotherapy across Europe: stakeholders' perceptions of implementation and evolution. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:896-907. [PMID: 38608565 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adapting radiotherapy services with workforce innovation using skills-mix or task-shifting optimises resources, supporting current and future demands. Advanced practitioners (APs) work at a different level of practice (beyond initial registration) across four pillars: clinical practice, leadership and management, education, and research. There is limited cross-country research on the advanced therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists (TR/RTTs), particularly in Europe. This study aimed to investigate European radiotherapy stakeholders' perceptions regarding current and future advanced practice (AP). METHODS From June to September 2022, one-to-one online semi-structured interviews were conducted in English, and audio and video were recorded. Full verbatim audio files were independently transcribed and checked by interviewer and interviewees. Braun and Clarke's seven steps guided the thematic analysis (using NVivo). RESULTS Thirty-three interviewees working or studying in 16 European countries represented practitioners (n=14), managers (n=6), educators (n=4), professional bodies (n=4), students (n=3), and regulators (n=2). Four overarching themes emerged: "AP drivers and outcomes", "AP challenges vs enablers", "Current vs future AP", "Becoming and being advanced practitioner". Participants identified research as the neglected AP pillar due to a lack of protected time, limited staff skills, no research culture, no funding, workload, and clinical priorities. Interviewees highlighted the importance of consistency in job titles, harmonisation of education models and curricula, definition of AP requirements, and support for all AP pillars through job plans and workforce planning. CONCLUSION Neither the profession nor education of TR/RTTs are harmonised across Europe, which is highly reflected in advanced-level practice. Advanced TR/RTTs should work across all pillars, including research, and these should be embedded in master's programmes, including leadership. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This study highlights a policy gap in the education and practice of APs in radiotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Oliveira
- Radiotherapy Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), Portugal; Escola Internacional de Doutoramento, Universidad de Vigo, Spain.
| | - B Barbosa
- Radiotherapy Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), Portugal; Escola Internacional de Doutoramento, Universidad de Vigo, Spain; Medical Physics, Radiobiology Group and Radiation Protection Group, IPO Porto Research Centre (CI-IPOP), Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), Portugal.
| | - J G Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Malta.
| | - I Bravo
- Medical Physics, Radiobiology Group and Radiation Protection Group, IPO Porto Research Centre (CI-IPOP), Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), Portugal.
| | - C Hughes
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, United Kingdom.
| | - S McFadden
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, United Kingdom.
| | - R Khine
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, Netherlands; Institute of Health Sciences Education, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, United Kingdom.
| | - H A McNair
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, Netherlands; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Radiotherapy and the Institute of Cancer Research, Surrey, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Guilherme Couto J, McNulty JP, Sundqvist E, Hughes C, McFadden S. Evaluation of the quality and impact of online learning through the SAFE EUROPE webinars. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:869-881. [PMID: 38598886 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The SAFE EUROPE project, a European-funded project, addressed educational gaps of Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (TR/RTTs) by offering a series of free webinars. This study aimed to assess the quality of these webinars and their impact on professional practice. METHODS Data collection involved two methods: an automated feedback form administered after each webinar, supplemented by a survey disseminated through social media. The collected data encompassed attendance statistics, participants' professions and geographic locations, webinar quality assessment, the acquisition of new knowledge and skills, the application of this newfound knowledge in practice, and the likelihood of recommending these webinars. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyse the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Ethical approval for the study was obtained. RESULTS 11,286 individuals from 107 countries participated in 18 webinars. Despite 72.7% being radiographers, a diverse array of professionals attended the webinars, including medical physicists, oncologists, radiologists, and academics. Remarkably, 98.7% of respondents rated the webinar quality as either good or excellent. The average rating for the likelihood of recommending these webinars to colleagues was 8.96/10. A substantial proportion of respondents expressed agreement or strong agreement that the webinars enhanced their knowledge (85%) and skills (73%). Furthermore, 79% of participants indicated that the webinars motivated them to change practice, with 65% having already implemented these changes. The insights from open-ended questions corroborated these findings. CONCLUSION The webinars effectively achieved the aim of the SAFE EUROPE project to enhance practice by increasing knowledge and skills. Participants overwhelmingly endorsed the quality of these webinars. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Webinars represent a cost-efficient training tool that reaches a global audience and various radiography/radiotherapy professions. The development of additional webinars is strongly recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Guilherme Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2090, Malta.
| | - J P McNulty
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, the Netherlands; School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - E Sundqvist
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oslo Metropolitan University, Norway.
| | - C Hughes
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, UK.
| | - S McFadden
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Susiku E, Hewitt-Taylor J, Akudjedu TN. Graduate competencies, employability and the transnational Radiography workforce shortage: A systematic literature review of current pre-registration Radiography education and training models. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:457-467. [PMID: 38211453 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transnational mobility of the Radiography workforce is challenged due to issues with standardisation of current education and training models which has added to the workforce shortage. To address the growing volume, scope and complexity of clinical Radiography service delivery, educational models need to be given a critical look for transnational relevance in modern times. This study aims to synthesise the characteristics of current pre-registration radiography educational programmes linked with effective knowledge, skill acquisition, and graduate employability to address the current workforce challenges through the development of newer training models. METHODS Using a mixed methods systematic review approach, secondary data was obtained from an EBSCOhost search involving key databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, Academic Search Ultimate, ScienceDirect, and SCOPUS. Themes were developed following a result-based convergent data synthesis. RESULTS Forty articles met the predefined inclusion criteria following the study identification and screening phases. The included studies were conducted from across diverse settings including both low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and high-income countries (HIC). Two broad themes were developed from the findings including: 1. Factors influencing graduate employability and 2) Radiography education and training programme characteristics. CONCLUSION The findings highlight and advocate for an innovative model for Radiography education and underscores the significance of graduates possessing multi-modality skills, varied competencies, and effective accreditation processes for training. Prioritising alignment with industry needs and holistic skill development is vital to closing the employability gap, ultimately improving graduate skills and competencies to address workforce shortage while improving patient care outcomes. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Radiography training institutions should explore the development of new innovative models for multi-modality pre-registration education. This should offer adaptable routes that align seamlessly with the evolving regulatory, technological, and clinical trends.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Susiku
- Institute of Medical Imaging & Visualisation, Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, UK
| | - J Hewitt-Taylor
- Centre for Public Health, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bournemouth University, UK
| | - T N Akudjedu
- Institute of Medical Imaging & Visualisation, Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Aabel I, Lysdahl KB, Egeland CH, Andersen ER. What is in it for me? Norwegian radiographers and radiation therapists' experiences from obtaining a master's degree. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2023; 54:356-363. [PMID: 37149399 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiographers and radiation therapists are essential in providing patients with high-quality diagnostic imaging or therapeutic services. Therefore, radiographers and radiation therapists must get involved in evidence-based practice and research. Even though many radiographers and radiation therapists obtain their master's degrees, little is known about how this degree affects clinical practice or personal and professional growth. We aimed to fill this knowledge gap by investigating Norwegian radiographers' and radiation therapists' experiences when deciding to undertake and complete a master's degree and exploring the impact of the master's degree in clinical practice. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim. The interview guide covered five broad areas: 1) the process of achieving a master's degree, 2) the work situation, 3) the value of competencies, 4) the use of competencies and 5) expectations. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS The analysis included seven participants (four diagnostic radiographers and three radiation therapists) working at six different departments of varying sizes across Norway. Four main categories emerged from the analysis, of which the categories: Motivation and Management support, were categorized into the theme experiences pre-graduation, whereas the categories Personal gain and Application of skills were categorized into the theme experiences pre-graduation. The fifth category Perception of pioneering embraces both themes. CONCLUSION Participants reported great motivation and personal gain, but challenges in management and application of skills post-graduation. The participants perceived themselves as pioneers, as there is a lack of experience with radiographers and radiation therapists undertaking master studies, hence no culture and systems for professional development are established. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE There is a need for professional development and research culture in the Norwegian Departments of Radiology and Radiation therapy. Radiographers and radiation therapists must take the initiative to establish such. Further research should investigate managers' attitudes and perceptions toward radiographers' master's competencies in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingunn Aabel
- Institute for the Health Sciences at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) at Gjøvik, Norway.
| | - Kristin Bakke Lysdahl
- Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway (USN), Norway
| | | | - Eivind Richter Andersen
- Institute for the Health Sciences at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) at Gjøvik, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Oliveira C, Barbosa B, Couto JG, Bravo I, Hughes C, McFadden S, Khine R, McNair HA. Advanced practice roles amongst therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists: A European survey. Radiography (Lond) 2023; 29:261-273. [PMID: 36608396 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advanced Practice (AP) roles in Radiotherapy (RT) over time are variable, often locally developed and not underpinned by professional standards which leads to conceptual and practical gaps. This study aimed to assess AP roles amongst Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (TR/RTTs) and identify educational gaps for this level across Europe. METHODS An anonymous online survey was designed, validated, and distributed across Europe. Convenience sampling was used to recruit advanced TR/RTTs practitioners or TR/RTTs working in AP roles. Descriptive analysis from closed questions and thematic analyses from open questions are reported. RESULTS A total of 272 responses were obtained, of which 189 eligible participations were from 21 European countries. 42% of respondents acknowledged additional education required to perform AP, and 25% reported a minimum of five years of RT practice to perform AP roles/tasks. There is a trend to work more on the clinical practice domain with a low percentage of working time allocated to research. Inconsistency was found in job titles, scopes of practice, and educational backgrounds across and even within countries. Education needs regarding knowledge about image-guided and adaptive RT, multimodal imaging and technologies, and advanced treatment planning were found. Training needs on leadership and management skills and clinical site-specific expertise were identified. CONCLUSION This study clearly shows a gap in education support, a need for standardisation in job titles and scopes of practice across Europe. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE As the first large-scale assessment of current AP roles and educational support amongst TR/RTTs across Europe, this study recommends the establishment of governance structure and role regulation. It also informs the curricula for master programmes to align the education with current and future practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Oliveira
- Radiotherapy Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Escola Internacional de Doutoramento, Universidad de Vigo, Circunvalación ao Campus Universitario, 36310 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain.
| | - B Barbosa
- Radiotherapy Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Escola Internacional de Doutoramento, Universidad de Vigo, Circunvalación ao Campus Universitario, 36310 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain; Medical Physics, Radiobiology Group and Radiation Protection Group, IPO Porto Research Centre (CI-IPOP), Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
| | - J G Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta.
| | - I Bravo
- Medical Physics, Radiobiology Group and Radiation Protection Group, IPO Porto Research Centre (CI-IPOP), Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto (IPO Porto), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
| | - C Hughes
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Shore Road Newtownabbey Co, Antrim, BT37 0QB, United Kingdom.
| | - S McFadden
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Shore Road Newtownabbey Co, Antrim, BT37 0QB, United Kingdom.
| | - R Khine
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, Netherlands; School of Health Care and Social Work, Buckinghamshire New University, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom.
| | - H A McNair
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, Netherlands; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Radiotherapy and the Institute of Cancer Research, Surrey, SM2 5PT, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Joyce E, Jackson M, Skok J, Peet B, McNair HA. Images and images: Current roles of therapeutic radiographers. Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:1093-1100. [PMID: 36054937 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Therapeutic radiography is a small profession and has adapted in response to advanced techniques. An increase in on-line adaptive MRI-guided radiotherapy (MRIgRT) will require role extension for therapeutic radiographers (TRs). This study will investigate the current role description for TRs and the activities they currently undertake with regards to MRIgRT. METHOD A training needs analysis was used to ask TRs about their current roles and responsibilities and essential skills required for MRIgRT. For the purposes of this paper, the authors present the results from the demographics of the individual, their current job title with roles and responsibilities, and experience with decision making and image assessment. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the data. RESULTS 261 responses were received (n = 261). Only 28% of job titles listed contained the protected title of 'therapeutic radiographer'. Advanced clinical practice roles were expressed by participants indicating that if a service need is presented, emerging roles will be created. Variation existed across the standardised roles of TRs and this discrepancy could present challenges when training for MRIgRT. TRs are pivotal in image verification and recognition on a standard linac, and skills developed there can be transferred to MRIgRT. Decision making is crucial for adaptive techniques and there are many skills within their current scope of practice that are indispensable for the MRIgRT. CONCLUSION It has been demonstrated that TRs have a range of roles that cover vast areas of the oncology pathway and so it is important that TRs are recognised so the pivotal role they play is understood by all. TRs have extensive soft-tissue IGRT knowledge and experience, aiding the evolution of decision-making skills and application of off-protocol judgments, the basis of MRIgRT. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Role development and changes in education for therapeutic radiographers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Joyce
- Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - M Jackson
- St George's University of London, UK
| | - J Skok
- St George's University of London, UK
| | - B Peet
- Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - H A McNair
- Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, UK; Institute of Cancer Research, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McFadden S, Couto G, McClure P, Hughes C, Beardmore C. The SAFE EUROPE project: What is it all about? Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:874-875. [PMID: 35786493 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S McFadden
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, UK.
| | - G Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, UK.
| | - P McClure
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, UK.
| | - C Hughes
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, UK.
| | - C Beardmore
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sousa F, Vaandering A, Couto JG, Somoano M, Van Gestel D. Barriers in education and professional development of Belgian medical imaging technologists and nurses working in radiotherapy: A qualitative study. Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:620-627. [PMID: 35567804 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiotherapy (RT) professionals are not officially recognised or have formal education in many countries, with RT being often a very short component of a broader programme. This study aims to investigate Belgian stakeholders' perpectives regarding existing barriers and solutions for the education and professional development of Radiation therapists (RTT) which regroups medical imaging technologists (MIT) and nurses working in RT. METHODS Nine experts with vast experience in RT were invited to be interviewed; eight participated (4 heads of the RT departments, 2 school representatives, 2 national society's representatives). A semi-structured questionnaire was used. The first two authors open-coded all interviews using thematic analysis. RESULTS Five themes and eleven sub-themes were drawn from the analysis. Belgian MIT and nurses in RT perform the same roles, but have different educational backgrounds. The barriers in education and professional development are related to law, education landscape, economics, social-cultural context, politics and professional identity. The main difference between the French and Dutch-speaking parts of the country were at the education level. The proposed solutions included modifying the legislative framework surrounding the RTT profession, setting up financial support, formalizing the educational requirements and increasing professional awareness. Future strategies might include the development of advanced roles and responsibilities. CONCLUSIONS Current law, educational landscape and lack of economic support were the main barriers identified. Except for the educational background, no fundamental differences were found between nurses and MIT in the French and Dutch-speaking parts. Perspectives for both professional groups are linked to future legislative and financial actions, the stakeholders involved and a clear strategic vision. In the upcoming years, increased responsibilities and the creation of a master's degree should be foreseen. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Regulation of RTT profession and education and an increase in RT-specific training must be implemented in Belgium to ensure professional development and optimized treatment delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Sousa
- Radiation Oncology Department, Institut Jules Bordet - Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium; Inholland University of Applied Sciences, School of Health, Haarlem, the Netherlands.
| | - A Vaandering
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Belgium; Center of Molecular Imaging, Radiotherapy and Oncology (MIRO), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J G Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta
| | - M Somoano
- Radiation Oncology Department, Institut Jules Bordet - Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - D Van Gestel
- Radiation Oncology Department, Institut Jules Bordet - Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Courtier N, McNulty J. What Radiography offers to therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists. Radiography (Lond) 2022; 28:253-254. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|