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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.
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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
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Morgan T, Ku M, Berg M, Halkett GKB. Australian medical radiation practitioners perspectives of continuing professional development: An online cross-sectional study. J Med Radiat Sci 2023; 70:270-282. [PMID: 37301987 PMCID: PMC10500116 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Continuing professional development (CPD) is mandatory for registered Australian medical radiation practitioners (MRPs) to maintain competence in their respective scopes of practice. The aim of this study was to explore MRPs attitudes, opinions and satisfaction towards CPD activities offered by the Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT). METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was emailed to 6398 ASMIRT members and included questions on: demographics, ASMIRT CPD activities, learning mode preferences, barriers and perceptions of CPD outcomes. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. RESULTS The survey was completed by 1018 MRPs. While MRPs were satisfied with face-to-face CPD quality (n = 540, 58.1%) and provision (n = 492, 55.3%), they were dissatisfied with the quantity of online CPD activities (n = 577, 65.1%) delivered by ASMIRT. Online learning was the most preferred mode of CPD delivery (n = 749, 74.2%), followed by face-to-face (n = 643, 64.0%) and collaborative learning (n = 539, 53.4%). Younger participants (19-35 years) had positive opinions regarding ASMIRT CPD activities and outcomes. Access to professional development leave (PDL) supported achievement of mandatory CPD requirements (P < 0.001). Lack of time, lack of access and workload were the highest ranked barriers preventing CPD participation. Rural/remote MRPs were dissatisfied with availability (P = 0.023), access (P < 0.001) and adequacy of ASMIRT provided CPD (P < 0.01) and were more likely to encounter barriers to CPD participation (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Many MRPs experienced barriers which prevented them from participating in CPD. Provision of more online CPD activities by ASMIRT and access to PDL can assist. Future improvements will ensure MRPs remain motivated to engage in CPD to improve clinical skills, patient safety and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Morgan
- Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT)MelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Min Ku
- Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT)MelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Melissa Berg
- Curtin School of Nursing/Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Faculty of Health SciencesCurtin UniversityWestern AustraliaBentleyAustralia
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyThe University of Notre Dame AustraliaFremantleWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Georgia KB Halkett
- Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT)MelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Curtin School of Nursing/Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Faculty of Health SciencesCurtin UniversityWestern AustraliaBentleyAustralia
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Determining the Research Priorities for Adult Primary Brain Tumours in Australia and New Zealand: A Delphi Study with Consumers, Health Professionals, and Researchers. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:9928-9955. [PMID: 36547195 PMCID: PMC9777470 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29120781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this project was to determine research priorities, barriers, and enablers for adult primary brain tumour research in Australia and New Zealand. Consumers, health professionals, and researchers were invited to participate in a two-phase modified Delphi study. Phase 1 comprised an initial online survey (n = 91) and then focus groups (n = 29) which identified 60 key research topics, 26 barriers, and 32 enablers. Phase 2 comprised two online surveys to (1) reduce the list to 37 research priorities which achieved consensus (>75% 2-point agreement) and had high mean importance ratings (n = 116 participants) and (2) determine the most important priorities, barriers, and enablers (n = 90 participants). The top ten ranked research priorities for the overall sample and sub-groups (consumers, health professionals, and researchers) were identified. Priorities focused on: tumour biology, pre-clinical research, clinical and translational research, and supportive care. Variations were seen between sub-groups. The top ten barriers to conducting brain tumour research related to funding and resources, accessibility and awareness of research, collaboration, and process. The top ten research enablers were funding and resources, collaboration, and workforce. The broad list of research priorities identified by this Delphi study, together with how consumers, health professionals, and researchers prioritised items differently, and provides an evidence-based research agenda for brain tumour research that is needed across a wide range of areas.
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Dunn A, Costello S, Imlach F, Jo E, Gurney J, Simpson R, Sarfati D. Using national data to model the New Zealand radiation oncology workforce. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:708-716. [PMID: 35768935 PMCID: PMC9542613 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Demand for radiation therapy is expected to increase over time. In Aotearoa/New Zealand, the radiation oncology workforce experiences high numbers of clinical hours but an intervention rate that is lower than in comparable countries, suggesting unmet treatment need. Accurate models on the supply and demand for radiation oncologists (ROs) are needed to ensure adequate staffing levels. Methods We developed a demand model that predicted the future number of ROs required, using national data from the Radiation Oncology Collection (ROC) and a survey of ROs. Radiation therapy intervention and retreatment rates (IR/RTRs), and benign and non‐cancer conditions being treated, were derived from the ROC and applied to Census population projections. Survey data provided definitions of treatment by complexity, time spent in different activities and time available for work. Results were linked to radiation oncology workforce forecasts from a supply model developed by the Ministry of Health. Results The demand model showed that 85 ROs would be needed in 2031, if current IR/RTRs were maintained, an increase from 68 in 2021. The supply model predicted a decrease in ROs over time, leaving a significant shortfall. Model parameters could be modified to assess the impact of workforce or practice changes; more ROs would be needed if average working hours reduced or IR/RTRs increased. Conclusion Workforce models based on robust data collections are an important tool for workforce planning. The RO demand model presented here combines detailed information on treatment and work activities to provide credible estimates that can be used to inform actions on training, recruitment and retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Dunn
- Te Aho o Te Kahu/Cancer Control Agency, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Fiona Imlach
- Te Aho o Te Kahu/Cancer Control Agency, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Emmanuel Jo
- Health Workforce Directorate, Ministry of Health, Wellington, New Zealand.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jason Gurney
- Te Aho o Te Kahu/Cancer Control Agency, Wellington, New Zealand.,Cancer and Chronic Conditions (C3) Research Group, Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Rose Simpson
- Te Aho o Te Kahu/Cancer Control Agency, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Diana Sarfati
- Te Aho o Te Kahu/Cancer Control Agency, Wellington, New Zealand
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Halkett GKB, Berg MN, Daudu D, Dhillon HM, Koh ES, Ownsworth T, Lobb E, Phillips J, Langbecker D, Agar M, Hovey E, Moorin R, Nowak AK. Supportive care of patients diagnosed with high grade glioma and their carers in Australia. J Neurooncol 2022; 157:475-485. [PMID: 35397081 PMCID: PMC8994178 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-022-03991-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to: determine the supportive care available for Australian patients with High Grade Glioma (HGG) and their carers; identify service gaps; and inform changes needed to implement guidelines and Optimal Care Pathways. Methods This cross-sectional online survey recruited multidisciplinary health professionals (HPs) who were members of the Cooperative Trials Group for Neuro-Oncology involved in management of patients diagnosed with HGG in Australian hospitals. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Fisher's exact test was used to explore differences between groups. Results 42 complete responses were received. A majority of MDT meetings were attended by a: neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, radiologist, and care coordinator. Less than 10% reported attendance by a palliative care nurse; physiotherapist; neuropsychologist; or speech therapist. Most could access referral pathways to a cancer care coordinator (76%), neuropsychologist (78%), radiation oncology nurse (77%), or psycho-oncologist (73%), palliative care (93–100%) and mental health professionals (60–85%). However, few routinely referred to an exercise physiologist (10%), rehabilitation physician (22%), dietitian (22%) or speech therapist (28%). Similarly, routine referrals to specialist mental health services were not standard practice. Nearly all HPs (94%) reported HGG patients were advised to present to their GP for pre-existing conditions/comorbidities; however, most HPs took responsibility (≤ 36% referred to GP) for social issues, mental health, symptoms, cancer complications, and treatment side-effects. Conclusions While certain services are accessible to HGG patients nationally, improvements are needed. Psychosocial support, specialist allied health, and primary care providers are not yet routinely integrated into the care of HGG patients and their carers despite these services being considered essential in clinical practice guidelines and optimal care pathways. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11060-022-03991-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia K B Halkett
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Bentley, WA, 6005, Australia.
| | - Melissa N Berg
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Bentley, WA, 6005, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Davina Daudu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Bentley, WA, 6005, Australia.,Medical School, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Haryana M Dhillon
- Psycho-Oncology Cooperative Research Group, School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-Based Decision-Making, School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Eng-Siew Koh
- South West Sydney Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.,Liverpool and Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centres, Liverpool, Australia.,Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Tamara Ownsworth
- School of Applied Psychology & The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Lobb
- Calvary Health Care Kogarah, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane Phillips
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Danette Langbecker
- Centre for Online Health and Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Meera Agar
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Hovey
- South West Sydney Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.,Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia.,Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Rachael Moorin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia.,School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Anna K Nowak
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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Taylor MR, Oetzel JG. The sustainability of the New Zealand radiation therapy workforce: Factors that influence intent to leave the workplace and profession. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2020; 16:77-82. [PMID: 33319075 PMCID: PMC7724194 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The New Zealand radiation therapist (RT) workforce is in a vulnerable state. 33% of RTs are thinking of leaving their current workplace. 35% of RTs intend to change careers before they retire. Being challenged and limited career development pathways influence RT retention. Strategies need to focus on advanced practice opportunities that challenge RTs.
Introduction The demand for radiation therapy services in New Zealand is growing due to an increasing and ageing population. The radiation therapist (RT) workforce is currently in a vulnerable state and this study aimed to understand RT perceptions on intent to remain in both the workplace and profession. Understanding factors that contribute to satisfaction and retention are important for the development of strategies by healthcare leaders to improve workforce sustainability. Materials and methods All current practising RTs were invited via email link to complete an online survey. Multivariate regression models were used to investigate any impact of demographic, workplace and professional variables on intent to remain in the workplace and intent to leave the profession. Results Three hundred and sixty two (91% response rate) RTs completed the survey. Key findings include: a) 33% are thinking of leaving their current workplace with 31% of these intending to leave within the next 12 months; b) 35% intend to change careers before they retire; and c) 25% indicated they would leave the profession if they could. Workplace satisfaction, being challenged and a lack of career development opportunities were common factors that influence intention to leave both the workplace and profession. Conclusions Strategies to ensure the sustainability of the RT workforce in New Zealand need to focus on developing a robust framework for career development including advanced practice opportunities that challenge RTs and ensuring workplaces create an environment that promote a sense of pride, camaraderie and flexibility in how they operate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Taylor
- Department of Radiation Therapy, Waikato District Health Board, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - John G Oetzel
- Department of Management Communication, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
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Johnson J, Ford E, Yu J, Buckey C, Fogh S, Evans SB. Peer support: A needs assessment for social support from trained peers in response to stress among medical physicists. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2019; 20:157-162. [PMID: 31355990 PMCID: PMC6753865 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies suggest that within radiation oncology, medical physicists (MP) experience high workloads. Little is known about how MPs use social support (SS) in times of stress. METHODS In collaboration with the Workgroup on Prevention of Medical Error, the American Association of Physicists in Medicine administered this Human Investigation Committee (HIC) approved email survey to 8566 members. Respondents were considered likely to seek SS if they answered (probably/definitely would) and unlikely to seek support if they answered (probably/definitely would not). Logistic regression was applied to determine associations between demographic factors and willingness to seek support as well as perception of barriers. RESULTS One thousand two hundred and ninety-seven members (15.1%) accessed and gave consent for the survey. One thousand and one (11.7%) respondents answered all relevant questions. Respondents were predominantly male (69.1%), MP in radiation oncology (81.8%), private practice (51.6%), with practice duration> 10 yr (60.2%). MPs were likely to seek SS for personal physical illness (78.63%), involvement in a medical error (73.94%) or adverse patient outcome (75.17%). MPs sought SS in the setting of personal fatigue (33.2%) or burnout (44.3%). Barriers to seeking SS were lack of time (80.3%), and uncertainty about whom to access (70.7%). MPs responded that they would be most likely to seek support from an equally experienced medical physicist colleague (81.0%). Most MPs (67.0%) identified as having experienced stressors, with serious family illness (35.2%), or burnout (32.8%) being most common. Factors associated with MPs unwillingness to seek SS for medical error included> 20 yr in practice (vs still in training - OR 0.30, P = 0.015), and male gender (OR 0.60, P = 0.003). Male gender was associated with the lowest willingness to seek support (OR 2.10, P = 0.0001), but also with fewer perceived barriers (OR 1.60, P = 0.0075). CONCLUSION Willingness to seek SS is demonstrated, and MPs want colleagues to provide support. Given these results, peer support could be considered among MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Ford
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - James Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Courtney Buckey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Shannon Fogh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Suzanne B Evans
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Hunter D, Wright C, Pearson S. Employing positive psychology to improve radiation therapy workplace culture. J Med Radiat Sci 2019; 66:139-144. [PMID: 30710429 PMCID: PMC6545407 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The Australian radiotherapy profession is challenged by job dissatisfaction, stress, burnout and unfavourable attrition. This paper will use psychological models to discuss the confluence of job demands, resources and personal characteristics that contribute to these challenges. Factors contributing to burnout and attrition amongst Australian Radiation Therapists will be explored, and a number of leadership strategies will be introduced to improve workplace culture. These strategies – aligned with positive psychology – seek to address staff engagement, emotional needs, and job stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren Hunter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline Wright
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sue Pearson
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
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