ESTRO 2022 - Abstract Book

S594

Abstract book

ESTRO 2022

Conclusion These results highlight the need for fast actions in the education and professional development of Belgian RT professionals, given their critical role in treating RT patients. Barriers in education and professional development of nurses and MIT working in RT in both French and Dutch-speaking parts of Belgium are mainly related to the current legislation, educational, economic, social-cultural and political context, and a lack of professional identity amongst professionals delivering RT. No differences were found between nurses and MIT for both parts of the country, except for the educational background. One of the main issues is the lack of national requirements for the training and recognition of the professionals working in RT. Therefore, regulating education programmes is considered urgent. The proposals included RT-dedicated bachelor’s degrees, mandatory RT-specific post-graduate courses allied with continuous professional development, or Master’s degrees. Financial support is also essential for schools to provide an adequate education level, but also to retain the professionals and motivate them to progress professionally.

PD-0660 The Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Radiation Therapists in Norway and Canada

S. Johansen 1

1 Oslo Metropolitan University, Life sciences and Health, Oslo, Norway

Purpose or Objective Several studies have demonstrated the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health care providers. However, there is little known about how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted radiation therapists (RTs) in Norway or Canada. The aim of this investigation was to study the psychological impact of working during the COVID-19 pandemic among RTs in Canada and Norway. Materials and Methods Online surveys were administered to a convenience sample of RTs and RT department managers. Approximately 2000 and 300 RTs were invited to participate from Canada and Norway, respectively. The RT survey collected information on demographics, work-related stressors, psychological impact, quality of life, and workplace support programs. The RT manager survey collected information on departmental changes, patient volumes, staff shortages and redeployment, personal protective equipment, and infection control measures. Descriptive analysis, group comparisons and logistic regression were used to examine the impact of COVID-19 on RTs in the two countries, while open-ended questions were examined through thematic analysis.

Results