National survey on the practice of radiation therapists in Australia

Abstract

IntroductionRadiation therapy (RT), like many allied health professions, has lacked professional practice clarity, which until 2008 had not been comprehensively investigated. This manuscript describes the first phase of a three‐phase project investigating the current and future practices of radiation therapists (RTs) in Australia. The aim of phase 1 was to define the practice of RTs in Australia.MethodsA quantitative approach was used to gain an understanding of RT practice. A national survey was distributed to RTs in Australia. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used to analyse the data. RT practice was analysed in relation to core and non‐core roles, where non‐core roles were further divided into basic and advanced practices.ResultsThe data from the national survey were representative of the Australian RT population (n = 525). The current practice of RTs is presented in summary tables for each area of work (treatment, planning, simulation, mould room and general).ConclusionThis study provided clarification of RT practice and indicated there was a desire to relinquish administrative roles to focus on RT–specific practice. There was evidence that some advanced roles were currently practiced in Australia; however, there was no structure to support these roles and they were based only on local need. This study identified that the profession needs to consider how they will maintain core RT practice, while encouraging the development of new roles, and whether some roles need to be relinquished.

Advanced practice radiation therapists: an Australian context

“…This review identified six potential roles and noted that none were present in Australia at the time of publication. A survey of national practice notes that some advanced practice roles did exist but that they were locally driven and without formal structure. Another review reported that little development had been made towards advanced practice roles in Australia but elements of extended practice were being undertaken, including CT planning, verification, patient weekly reviews, and planning and delivery of brachytherapy treatment …”

Reduced patient anxiety as a result of radiation therapist-led psychosocial support: a systematic review

“…Confusion regarding the ‘radiation therapist’ role may contribute to a lack of patient satisfaction, information provision and psychosocial support. The role is defined by RTs and patients as encompassing technical, information and supportive care components . While the RT role will vary across departments, clear definitions and expectations could focus RT interactions and increase patient satisfaction, while ensuring patient needs are met.…”

“…RTs’ primary roles are patient care, radiation planning and treatment delivery. Their role incorporates patient education, including explanation and co‐ordination of procedures and appointments, and providing advice regarding personal care during treatment . In fulfilling these roles, RTs need to spend time with patients to ensure their information needs are met and that they are willing to proceed with treatment .…”

Sustainability of the Australian radiation oncology workforce: A survey of radiation therapists and radiation oncology medical physicists

“…Within radiation therapy, there is a move towards advanced practice that would provide opportunities for RTs to specialise within their jobs (Radiation Oncology Tripartite Committee, 2012; Sale et al, 2016) and which has been successful in the UK and Canada (Department of Health, 2003;Harnett, Bak, Zychla, & Lockhart, 2014). Career development and advancement opportunities were particularly difficult for RTs to find, and also for ROMPs in junior roles.…”

“…Career development and advancement opportunities were particularly difficult for RTs to find, and also for ROMPs in junior roles. However, there are currently few RTs practising as advanced practitioners and these roles are often not officially recognised and may not attract additional salary (Sale et al, 2016). Within radiation therapy, there is a move towards advanced practice that would provide opportunities for RTs to specialise within their jobs (Radiation Oncology Tripartite Committee, 2012; Sale et al, 2016) and which has been successful in the UK and Canada (Department of Health, 2003;Harnett, Bak, Zychla, & Lockhart, 2014).…”