Transition to practice in Radiation Oncology: mind the gap
LE3 .A278 2018
2018
Sargeant, Joan Murphy, René
Acadia University
Master of Education
Masters
Curriculim Studies
Education
Introduction: Physicians entering independent practice often express apprehension in managing the non-clinical aspects of practice. Thus, this study examined the perceived preparedness for independent practice of Radiation Oncology (RO) residents and attempted to determine how any deficiencies could be addressed. Methods: Focus groups with senior RO residents, RO fellows, new ROs, RO residency program directors and the RO specialty committee Competence by Design (CBD) working group were conducted. Data was coded using the Canadian Medical Education Directives for Specialists (CanMEDS) competencies, and thematic analysis. Results: Commonly reported gaps in the TtP for ROs were lack of experience with: practice management, understanding the health care system, financial planning, effective collaboration and communication, career planning, and the totality of the radiation therapy planning process. Suggestions to address these challenges included use of: mentorship, educational resources, courses, simulation, improved graded responsibility, resident longitudinal clinics and curricular blocks for radiation therapy planning. Emergent data demonstrated that there are perceived roadblocks to the implementation of TtP curricula. Conclusions: There are gaps in the TtP for RO residents, with opportunities for enrichment with CBD. A socio-materiality perspective suggests that the limitations of the radiotherapy planning software may be causing exclusion of residents at social, cognitive and pedagogical levels. The data is informative for the development of a TtP curricula.
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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:3188