To assess the feasibility of a therapeutic radiographer completing the brief geriatric assessment in lung cancer patients during routine radiotherapy practice

Older adults and the unique role of the radiation therapist: Future directions for improving geriatric oncology training and education

“…Hashmi et al assessed the feasibility of RTT undertaking a Brief Geriatric Assessment (BGA) during routine RT [38] . It was found that the RTT scope of practice limits the necessary skills needed to undertake BGA, however with appropriate training and education RTT are shown to have the potential to assess for frailty and deliver low level interventions [38] . Examples of such interventions include fatigue management education, physical activity education, sleep hygiene, functional assessments, mobility assessments, education strategies for mild cognitive impairment, adaptive equipment to reduce functional deficits, referrals to community services for falls interventions, rehabilitation, psychological support, befriending service and carer support [38] .…”

“…We argue this would likely to translate into RO in terms of cost and staff resource savings via reduction of in-hospital admissions/length of stay, RT treatment toxicity and completion. The evidence also shows RTT strongly support an expanded role into the care of older adults and hence such roles may translate into improved staff satisfaction and recruitment and retention of RTT [26] , [38] , [44] .…”

“…Although it found 90% of RTT were unaware of specialized clinics for geriatric assessment and 80% were not familiar with geriatric screening and assessment tools, 66% of RTT supported the concept of designated GO clinics for older adults and 86% agreed that geriatric assessments would be useful for this patient population (27). Hashmi et al assessed the feasibility of RTT undertaking a Brief Geriatric Assessment (BGA) during routine RT [38]. It was found that the RTT scope of practice limits the necessary skills needed to undertake BGA, however with appropriate training and education RTT are shown to have the potential to assess for frailty and deliver low level interventions [38].…”