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Piffoux M, Delaye M, Gouy E, Rolland F, Truong LN, Frajerman A, Vinchon F, Hadouiri N. Medical oncologist stereotypes among medical students, residents and physicians: a national cross-sectional study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 14:299-302. [PMID: 38123978 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004679] [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: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The perception of oncologists could impact the attractiveness of the specialty and dialogue between oncologists and other physicians. The aim of the study was to describe and understand the stereotypes and social representation (SR) associated with oncologists among medical students, residents and physicians in France. METHODS This nationwide web-based survey conducted in 2021 was based on hierarchical evocation methods. Qualitative analyses were based on the Reinert method with factorial analyses. Each respondent's SR was graded from 1 to 5 (from 1: very positive SR to 5: very negative SR). RESULTS Oncologists suffer from a rather negative SR. The negative representation was mostly related to difficulties in practising and the proximity with death and end of life. Oncologists were also associated with more positive notions like interdisciplinarity or intellectual complexity. Attendance to an oncology course was associated with a better SR of oncology (p=0.036), whereas having someone in the family practising oncology had a negative impact (p=0.028). CONCLUSIONS SR of oncologists is rather contrasted. It was positively influenced by attendance to an oncology course, which could be an option to correct stereotypes and update on this rapidly evolving specialty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Piffoux
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Medical Oncology, Centre Leon Berard, Lyon, France
| | - Matthieu Delaye
- Association pour l'Enseignement et la Recherche des Internes en Oncologie (AERIO), Paris, France
- Medical Oncology, Institut Curie, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - Evan Gouy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Franck Rolland
- CESP-Inserm, U1018, Research in Ethics and Epistemology (R2E), Paris-Sud University, Paris-Saclay University, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Linh-Nam Truong
- ISNI (InterSyndicale Nationale des Internes), Paris, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Ariel Frajerman
- Department of Psychiatry, Université Paris-Saclay, AP-HP, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Florent Vinchon
- Université Paris Cité et Université Gustave Eiffel, LaPEA, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Nawale Hadouiri
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Center Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon, Dijon, France
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Sola AB, Otón LF, Guedea F, Arenas M. A nationwide survey of the current status of radiation oncology teaching in Spanish medical schools. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2024; 28:794-800. [PMID: 38515816 PMCID: PMC10954273 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.98741] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The present study was designed to collect information on the current status of radiation oncology (RO) teaching in undergraduate medical schools in Spain. Materials and methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted with the support of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology (SEOR). An anonymous questionnaire was sent in two waves, one month apart, between January and June 2022, to all Medical Schools and affiliated Institutions having radiotherapy departments throughout the country. Data on load, curricular location of OR, the academic course (or courses) in which the subject of OR was taught, and teachers position were recorded. Results Responses were obtained from 26 of the 46 available Medical Schools (response rate 56.5%). The average number of theoretical classes was 13 (0-30), seminars: 4.5 (0-12) and hours of practical training 17 (0-60). The scientific content of RO was covered very evenly. Medical physics and radiobiology were taught with different extension in 24 medical schools (92.3%). Information on technological equipment, brachytherapy, indications, and clinical results was provided in all but one medical school. In 13 medical schools (50.0%) the contents of RO were taught in more than one course, but the distribution of RO teaching during the six years of undergraduate training was quite dispersed. The teaching staff included 4 full professors, 8 tenured professors, and 68 clinical associate professors. The average number of associate professors per medical school was 2.2. Also, the average number of full professors and tenured lecturers was 0.42 per medical school, although there were none in 16 centers. Conclusions The overall teaching content of RO in Spanish medical schools seems appropriate but actions to improve the heterogeneity in the curricular location of RO and the shortage of teachers should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Biete Sola
- Radiotherapy Oncology Service, Hospital Clinic; Department de Fonaments Clinics, Universitat de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Fernando Otón
- Radiotherapy Oncology Service, Hospital Clínico, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ferran Guedea
- Radiotherapy Oncology Service, Institut Català d'Oncologia (ICO), L'Hospitalt de Llobregat, Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine (Unidad Docente de Bellvitge), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Arenas
- Radiotherapy Oncology Service, Hospital de Sant Joan, Reus, Tarragona, Faculty of Medicine, University Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
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Jaibaji R, Irfan K, Choudry A, Pillaai M, Khan A, Mustafa H, Jawad H, Al-Maiyah F, Barnes SLA, Hussein AA, Alesmail A, Hassan-Dinif J, Khalil M, Albazooni M. Knowledge of head and neck cancer among medical students in the UK. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2024; 62:171-176. [PMID: 38245454 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2023.11.015] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) refers to malignancies found in mucosal surfaces anywhere from the paranasal sinuses to the larynx, including the various glands and cavities. Between the years 2016 and 2018, there were about 3900 new cases every year in women and 8600 in men, making it the thirteenth most common cancer in women and fourth most common in men. The aim of our study was to evaluate the amount and type of teaching United Kingdom (UK) medical students receive on HNC, and to assess their current knowledge of these cancers. An online survey distributed via university representatives was responded to by 311 final year medical students from 25 medical schools across the UK. Regarding HNC teaching, 72 students (23.2%) reported receiving no teaching at their medical school. Of the 239 who reported receiving teaching, 169 (54.3%) received it in the format of a non-interactive, large group lecture. A total of 271 respondents (87.1%) believed that medical students at their university would benefit from more teaching on HNC. Based on our sample, there appears to be an overall dissatisfaction and lack of confidence surrounding HNC in the undergraduate curriculum. With its increasing prevalence in the UK, it is vital that red-flag symptoms and referral criteria are understood by the future medical workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raian Jaibaji
- UCL Medical School, 74 Huntley St, London WC1E 6DE, United Kingdom.
| | - Khansa Irfan
- University of Central Lancashire, 135A Adelphi St, Preston PR1 7BH, United Kingdom
| | - Anum Choudry
- University of Birmingham Medical School, Birmingham Medical School, Vincent Drive, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Medha Pillaai
- University of Dundee, Nethergate, Dundee DD1 4HN, United Kingdom
| | - Ayesha Khan
- University of Sheffield Medical School, Beech Hill Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom
| | - Hassan Mustafa
- University College London Medical School, 74 Huntley St, London WC1E 6DE, United Kingdom
| | - Hadi Jawad
- Keele Medical School, Keele University, University Road, Staffordshire ST4 6QG, United Kingdom
| | - Faida Al-Maiyah
- Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Garrod Building, Turner Street, London E1 2AD, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ali Abdul Hussein
- Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Ayah Alesmail
- Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health, The John Bull Building, Research Way Plymouth Science Park, Plymouth PL6 8BU, United Kingdom
| | - Jakob Hassan-Dinif
- St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Maryam Khalil
- Sunderland Medical School, Edinburgh Building, Chester Rd, Sunderland SR1 3SD, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed Albazooni
- Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, United Kingdom
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Khoury EG, Lynch-Kelly K, Fulton-Ward T, Heritage S, Devasar A, Jones CM. Online Oncology Careers Events to Attract the Future Oncology Medical Workforce: An Exemplar Event and Review of the Literature. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2024; 36:e51-e60. [PMID: 37932187 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.10.053] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS There are too few oncologists to meet the increasing burden imposed by the rising incidence of cancer. This results from issues with the retention of established oncologists and longstanding challenges to the recruitment of adequate numbers of trainees. To counter this, the British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies (BONUS) devised an online oncology careers event for medical students and junior doctors who are yet to select a specialty. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online careers event was devised with a focus on oncology practice and related subspecialties, as well as research. Event attendees were asked to respond to piloted pre- and post-event surveys. Knowledge and attitudes towards a career in oncology were evaluated using Likert scale and multiple-choice questions. A systematic literature search was carried out to contextualise these data. RESULTS Of the 73 attendees, 44 (60%) participants completed both the pre- and post-event surveys; 79.5% of attendees believed that information on a career in oncology is lacking in medical training. This viewpoint was supported by the systematic review, which highlighted a need for relevant focussed interventions targeted at medical students and fledgling doctors. The education event led to an increase in the median reported understanding of the oncology career pathway from 6.0 to 8.0 (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001), as well as the likelihood of pursuing a career in oncology (8.0-9.0; P < 0.05). It was also associated with a proportional increase in medical and surgical oncology interest, albeit with a fall in interest in clinical and interventional oncology as well as academia. CONCLUSION A targeted online careers event increases knowledge of and interest in a career in oncology, albeit predominantly for medical and surgical subspecialties. Broader initiatives based on our model should be developed and careers in academia as well as clinical and interventional oncology emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Khoury
- Cancer Academic Sciences Unit, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - T Fulton-Ward
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - S Heritage
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - A Devasar
- Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - C M Jones
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK; Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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Fulton-Ward T, Bain R, Khoury EG, Keshwara SM, Joseph PJS, Selby P, Millward CP. Benefits of Mentoring in Oncology Education for Mentors and Mentees: Pre-Post Interventional Study of the British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies' National Oncology Mentorship Scheme. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 9:e48263. [PMID: 37695662 PMCID: PMC10520773 DOI: 10.2196/48263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formal education of oncology is lacking in many undergraduate medical curricula. Mentoring schemes can expose participants to specific areas of medicine and may address the shortfalls in oncology education. Few mentoring schemes have been designed within the United Kingdom, especially within oncology. There is a need to understand reasons for mentor and mentee participation in such schemes and to identify ways to minimize barriers to engagement. OBJECTIVE This study identifies motivations for participation in an oncology mentoring scheme and its benefits and limitations to both the mentee and the mentor. METHODS The British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies launched a National Oncology Mentorship Scheme (NOMS) on September 1, 2021. Mentees (medical student or foundation doctor) were paired with mentors (specialty registrar or consultant), for 6 months of mentoring. In total, 86 mentors and 112 mentees were recruited to the scheme. The mentees and mentors were asked to meet at least 3 times during this period and suggestions were provided on the content of mentoring. Mentees and mentors were invited to complete a prescheme questionnaire, exploring motivations for involvement in the scheme, current experiences within oncology, and knowledge and interests in the field. At the end of the scheme, mentors and mentees were asked to complete a postscheme questionnaire exploring experiences and benefits or limitations of participation. Paired analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. For free text data, content analysis was applied to summarize the main themes in the data. RESULTS Of the 66 (59%) mentees who completed the prescheme questionnaire, 41 (62%) were clinical, 21 (32%) preclinical medical students, and the remainder were junior doctors. For mentees, networking was the primary reason for joining the scheme (n=25, 38%). Mentees ranked experience of oncology at medical school at 3 on 10 (IQR 2-5). In this, 46 (53%) mentors completed the prescheme questionnaire, 35 (76%) were registrar level, and the remainder were consultant level (n=11). The most common reason for mentor participation was to increase awareness and interest in the field (n=29, 63%). Of those who completed the prescheme questionnaire, 23 (35%) mentees and 25 (54%) mentors completed the postscheme questionnaire. Knowledge in all areas of oncology assessed significantly increased during the scheme (P<.001). Most mentees (n=21, 91%) and mentors (n=18, 72%) felt they had benefited from the scheme. Mentees cited gaining insights into oncology as most beneficial; and mentors, opportunities to develop professionally. Whilst mentees did not report any barriers to participating in the scheme, mentors stated lack of time as the greatest barrier to mentoring. CONCLUSIONS British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies' NOMS is expanding and is beneficial for mentees through increasing knowledge, providing exposure, and career advice in oncology. Mentors benefit from improving their mentoring skills and personal satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Fulton-Ward
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Bain
- School of Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Emma G Khoury
- Academic Cancer Sciences Unit, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Sumirat M Keshwara
- Institute of Systems, Molecular, & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Peter Selby
- University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher P Millward
- Institute of Systems, Molecular, & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Ikiroma A, Santin O, Camanda J, Chocolate F, Pelinganga O, Jordao H, Tommasino M, Lohfeld L, Anderson L. Evaluation of human papillomavirus (HPV) knowledge among healthcare professionals: A study of conference attendees in Angola. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2099931. [PMID: 35849621 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2099931] [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: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays an essential role in cervical cancer development. Angola has a high cervical cancer incidence rate (36.1 per 100,000); therefore, knowledge of HPV among clinicians is essential for the prevention of cervical cancer and educating at-risk individuals. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge of HPV among healthcare professionals in Angola. A 44-item questionnaire was distributed to 65 healthcare professionals who attended a conference on the cancer burden in Angola. Non-parametric and multiple regression analyses were conducted. Of the participants (55.6%) were male, and 33.3% were aged 31-40 years, 56.3% had an undergraduate degree, and 35.9% had a postgraduate degree. All participants worked in healthcare in academic and/or clinical settings, with 36.7% in joint contracts. Most (62.2%) knew that early sexual debut increases the risk of contracting HPV, and HPV vaccines are most effective if administered before sexual debut. However, there was limited knowledge regarding the virus transmission. The mean HPV knowledge score was 11.08 ± 8.76 and knowledge was higher among older healthcare workers (>50 years) with a postgraduate degree and working in a clinical role. Overall, HPV knowledge was limited among the respondents. Policymakers should consider promoting knowledge and targeted public health initiatives among healthcare professionals in Angola.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalia Ikiroma
- Aberdeen Centre for Health Data Science, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | - Osvaldo Pelinganga
- Department of Agriculture, Instituto Superior Politécnico do Cuanza Sul, Sumbe, Angola
| | - Haydee Jordao
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Massimo Tommasino
- Infections and Cancer Biology Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Lynne Lohfeld
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Lesley Anderson
- Aberdeen Centre for Health Data Science, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Núñez-Peña E, Siller-Garcia P, Vaca-Cartagena BF, Lucio-Lozada J, Villafuerte-Manrique S, Barrera López M, Mesa-Chavez F, Villarreal-Garza C. Activities Performed by ASCO-Sponsored Oncology Student Interest Groups in Latin America: Assessing Members' Preferences and Leaders' Challenges. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2200050. [PMID: 36265095 PMCID: PMC9812479 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In response to the worldwide shortage of oncologists, ASCO established Oncology Student Interest Groups (OSIGs) to increase oncology exposure at medical schools. However, there is limited guidance on the activities they should undergo. The main purposes of this study were (1) to assess the preferences and perceptions of OSIG members about their group events and (2) to describe the difficulties faced by leaders to carry out OSIGs' tasks. METHODS In this multicenter, cross-sectional study, group members and leaders from five active Latin American OSIGs were invited to answer anonymous web-based surveys exploring members' attitudes toward group activities and leaders' challenges when carrying them out. Data collection was conducted from March to June 2021. RESULTS Responses from 142 medical students and four OSIGs leaders were analyzed. In total, 83% of student members considered that lectures with an oncology-related expert was very useful for increasing their overall interest in oncology. For increasing interest in cancer research, 87% deemed that participating in oncology research projects was very useful. Shadowing oncology professionals was very useful for at least 70% of members to increase their oncology knowledge and their interest in following an oncology-related career. Moreover, leaders' main challenges were having a high academic load, little response from members, lack of interesting ideas and protected time for OSIGs' events, and limited support from their school. CONCLUSION OSIGs' leaders, medical schools, and international oncology organizations should work together to design activities that increase medical students' exposure to oncology-related professionals and encourage their participation in international oncological events. These schools and organizations should actively support OSIG leaders when facing difficulties to prevent members' disengagement and groups' discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Núñez-Peña
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Paloma Siller-Garcia
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Bryan F. Vaca-Cartagena
- Breast Cancer Center, Hospital Zambrano Hellion TecSalud, Tecnologico de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Jose Lucio-Lozada
- Personalized Medicine Laboratory, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Mirelle Barrera López
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anahuac México Norte, Naucalpan, Mexico
| | - Fernanda Mesa-Chavez
- Breast Cancer Center, Hospital Zambrano Hellion TecSalud, Tecnologico de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Cynthia Villarreal-Garza
- Breast Cancer Center, Hospital Zambrano Hellion TecSalud, Tecnologico de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, Mexico,Cynthia Villarreal-Garza, MD, DSc, Batallon de San Patricio 112, Real de San Agustin, 66278, San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; Twitter: @Dra_CVillarreal; e-mail:
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Khoury EG, Heritage SR, Fulton-Ward T, Joseph PJS, Keshwara SM, Selby P. BONUS: the National Oncology Network for Students and Junior Doctors. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2022; 34:678-682. [PMID: 35811271 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E G Khoury
- British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies, UK; University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - S R Heritage
- British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies, UK; University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - T Fulton-Ward
- British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies, UK; University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - P J S Joseph
- British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies, UK; University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - S M Keshwara
- British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies, UK; Whiston Hospital, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Prescot, UK
| | - P Selby
- British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies, UK; University of Leeds, Leeds, UK; University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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9
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Jones CM, Walls G, Spencer K. Growing Evidence for a Need for a Greater Emphasis on Oncology Teaching in Medical School Curricula. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2022; 34:e446. [PMID: 35780006 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C M Jones
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - G Walls
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK; Cancer Centre, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
| | - K Spencer
- Radiotherapy Research Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK; Leeds Cancer Centre, The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
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Heritage SR, Lynch-Kelly K, Kalvala J, Tulloch R, Devasar A, Harewood J, Khoury E, Abdelwahed A, Fung A, Bigogno CM, Gray R, Keshwara S, Joseph PJS, Selby P, Tharmalingam H. Medical Student Perspectives on Undergraduate Oncology Education in the UK. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2022; 34:e355-e364. [PMID: 35595594 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2022.04.011] [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: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The British Oncology Network for Undergraduate Societies (BONUS) surveyed students who attended an oncology revision day to determine their views on the current quantity, quality and type of curriculum-based oncology teaching they have experienced. MATERIALS AND METHODS Students attending two BONUS revision days received a questionnaire assessing their experience of oncology teaching within the medical curriculum and interest in pursuing a future career in oncology using a 10-point Likert scale. Data were collected with informed consent to be anonymised and used for research. Student demographics and qualitative and quantitative data about experiences of oncology education were analysed. RESULTS In total, 451 students registered to attend the revision days. After removal of duplicates, non-responders and non-UK participants, responses from 153 students studying across years 1-6 at 22 UK medical schools were analysed. The mean quantity of oncology lectures students reported receiving was 8.9 hours and the mean quantity of clinic/ward-based oncology teaching was 7.5 hours. Ninety (62.1%) of the 145 students who responded to the relevant question reported that they had received dedicated teaching in oncology. Students who had received dedicated oncology teaching reported a statistically significantly higher mean quality 6.1 (95% confidence interval 5.6-6.5) versus 5.0 (95% confidence interval 4.3-5.5; P = 0.003) and quantity 5.2 (95% confidence interval 4.7-5.6) versus 4.3 (95% confidence interval 3.7-4.9; P = 0.03) of oncology teaching compared with those who had not received this. CONCLUSION Appropriate oncology education is essential for all medical students due to the high prevalence of cancer. All future doctors need the appropriate knowledge and communication skills to care for cancer patients. Our analysis provides quantitative evidence to support the value of specialist oncology teaching within the medical school curriculum in improving student-reported experience. National student-led revision days and events may widen interest in a future career in oncology and aid collaboration between oncology societies. It is important for the general undergraduate medical curriculum to integrate specialty content. An integrated curriculum should facilitate a holistic approach that spans prevention, screening, treatment and palliation rather than being split by subspeciality.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Heritage
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - K Lynch-Kelly
- GKT School of Medical Education, King's College London, London, UK
| | - J Kalvala
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - R Tulloch
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - A Devasar
- Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J Harewood
- School of Medical Education, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - E Khoury
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - A Abdelwahed
- School of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - A Fung
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - C M Bigogno
- Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - R Gray
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - S Keshwara
- Whiston Hospital, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Prescot, UK
| | - P J S Joseph
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - P Selby
- University of Leeds, Leeds, UK; University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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Ladha FA, Pettinato AM, Perrin AE. Medical student residency preferences and motivational factors: a longitudinal, single-institution perspective. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:187. [PMID: 35300656 PMCID: PMC8929265 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03244-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high proportion of medical school graduates pursue specialties different from those declared at matriculation. While these choices influence the career paths, satisfaction, and potential regret students will experience, they also impact the supply and demand ratio of the shorthanded physician workforce across many specialties. In this study, we investigate how the choice of medical specialty and the factors motivating those choices change between the beginning and end of medical school training. METHODS A questionnaire was administered annually from 2017 to 2020 to a cohort of medical students at the University of Connecticut to determine longitudinal preferences regarding residency choice, motivational factors influencing residency choice, future career path, and demographic information. RESULTS The questionnaire respondent totals were as follows: n = 76 (Year 1), n = 54 (Year 2), n = 31 (Year 3), and n = 65 (Year 4). Amongst newly matriculated students, 25.0% were interested in primary care, which increased ~ 1.4-fold to 35.4% in the final year of medical school. In contrast, 38.2% of matriculated students expressed interest in surgical specialties, which decreased ~ 2.5-fold to 15.4% in the final year. Specialty choices in the final year that exhibited the largest absolute change from matriculation were orthopedic surgery (- 9.9%), family medicine (+ 8.1%), radiology (+ 7.9%), general surgery (- 7.2%), and anesthesiology (+ 6.2%). Newly matriculated students interested in primary care demonstrated no differences in their ranking of motivational factors compared to students interested in surgery, but many of these factors significantly deviated between the two career paths in the final year. Specifically, students interested in surgical specialties were more motivated by the rewards of salary and prestige compared to primary care students, who more highly ranked match confidence and family/location factors. CONCLUSIONS We identified how residency choices change from the beginning to the end of medical school, how certain motivational factors change with time, how these results diverge between primary care and surgery specialty choice, and propose a new theory based on risk-reward balance regarding residency choice. Our study promotes awareness of student preferences and may help guide school curricula in developing more student-tailored training approaches. This could foster positive long-term changes regarding career satisfaction and the physician workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feria A Ladha
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | | | - Adam E Perrin
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
- Family Medicine Center at Asylum Hill, Hartford, CT, USA
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Aemaz Ur Rehman M, Farooq H, Ebaad Ur Rehman M, Ali MM, Zafar A, Khokhar MA. Perceptions of oncology as a career choice among the early career doctors in Pakistan. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:61. [PMID: 35081960 PMCID: PMC8790828 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03123-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of oncologists is a growing global concern. With the rise in cancer burden across the world, the supply-demand mismatch of the oncology workforce is projected to increase. Furthermore, oncology is a low-ranked field of choice among medical students, and without understanding the perceptions and concerns of early-career doctors regarding oncology, any investments made in cancer care will be futile. This study aims to determine the opinions of young doctors and the factors most affecting their preferences in order to devise focused strategies to attract more doctors into oncology. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 early-career doctors across various public and private hospitals in Pakistan, from March to November 2019. A close-ended, self-administered questionnaire was used to assess their opinions in terms of the workplace environment, scope, and the emotional and financial aspects of oncology. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and the influence (positive or negative) of the perceptions on the choice of oncology as a career was determined by binary logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Almost three-quarters of the participants did not want a career in oncology. The top positive perceptions about oncology in descending order were: progressive field, gender-neutral, stable working hours, financially healthy, and work-family balance. Top negative perceptions were: lack of oncologic facilities in hospitals, radiation exposure, need for private practice, poor patient prognosis, high patient load, and depressing environment. Participants who attended private medical school (p < 0.10), planned to live abroad (p < 0.10), had an oncologist (p < 0.05), cancer survivor or death due to cancer in the family (p < 0.05), were more likely to adopt oncology as a career. Those who believed that poor patient prognosis can have an impact on career choice were less likely to prefer oncology (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Despite the rising cancer burden, early career doctors are reluctant to join oncology. Curricular, infrastructural and policy changes are needed at the level of medical school, oncology training and practice to recruit more young doctors and minimize the existing paucity of the oncologic workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Aemaz Ur Rehman
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Neela Gumbad Chowk, Anarkali, Lahore, 54000 Pakistan
| | - Hareem Farooq
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Neela Gumbad Chowk, Anarkali, Lahore, 54000 Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Mohsin Ali
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Neela Gumbad Chowk, Anarkali, Lahore, 54000 Pakistan
| | - Amjad Zafar
- Department of Oncology, King Edward Medical University, Neela Gumbad Chowk, Anarkali, Lahore, 54000 Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abbas Khokhar
- Department of Oncology, King Edward Medical University, Neela Gumbad Chowk, Anarkali, Lahore, 54000 Pakistan
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Critoph DJ, Smith LAM, Williams RM, Hatcher HM. Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Placements: Developing Complex Clinical Communication Skills of Medical Students. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 11:304-308. [PMID: 34324393 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Following implementation of a student selected module in adolescent and young adult cancer care for medical students, we sought to explore their experiences of the specialty. Methods: We undertook a focus group of five medical students all in their fourth to sixth year of study. Transcripts were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Results: We identified six key themes repeatedly elicited during the focus group; these were specialized and holistic care, patient's perspective, connectedness and professional boundaries, triadic communication, emotional impacts, and professional development and support. Conclusion: Early exposure to this specialty is positive for students and the model could be replicated elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J Critoph
- Clinical Communications Skills Department, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Oncology, and Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust Foundation, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,TYA Cancer Service, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust Foundation, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Luke A M Smith
- Peterborough City Hospital, North West Anglia Foundation Trust, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel M Williams
- Clinical Communications Skills Department, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Helen M Hatcher
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Oncology, and Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust Foundation, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,TYA Cancer Service, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust Foundation, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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