ESTRO 2024 - Abstract Book

S5702

RTT - Patient experience and quality of life

ESTRO 2024

“The importance of a tool kit, the importance of awake radiotherapy, consider the parents needs do they need any extra support, and the need to build a rapport with the family”

“I really enjoyed the session and thought it was so helpful. I've treated quite a few paediatric patients and I think this session has definitely changed my perspective a little bit, so I'll be taking those points with me when I'm working as a professional in the near future. Thank you for the session!!”

We hosted a webinar allowing HCPs to share best practice and strategies for supporting paediatric patients and families. We have developed a network for these professionals.

4:

We created an animation to familiarise younger children with the process of awake radiotherapy.

We worked with Nottingham Radiotherapy Centre, to create several videos introducing children and families to the HCPs they would meet.

We deliver soft toys and a postcard with links to our content to children diagnosed across England and Wales. We have had feedback and photos shared from parents, demonstrating how our toys, videos and strategies have helped:

Jellycat toy requests have doubled from 2022 to 2023.

Conclusion:

• The survey demonstrated inconsistency in the delivery of radiotherapy to paediatric patients across England and Wales. • Key learnings from the project highlight the need for paediatric training for students within undergraduate courses. • There is an opportunity to develop consistent practitioner routes to specialise in paediatrics. • Gaps exist between parental and HCP perception of how and when awake radiotherapy is possible; communicating the possibilities required.