ESTRO 2024 - Abstract Book

S5771

RTT - Education, training, advanced practice and role developments

ESTRO 2024

1 Abano Terme hospital, Department of radiation oncology, Padova, Italy. 2 Padova University Hospital, Interventional radiology, Padova, Italy. 3 Azienda Sanitaria Locale Pescara, Nuclear Medicine, Pescara, Italy

Purpose/Objective:

The Radiation Therapy Technologist (RTT) is a professional who, together with the other actors involved in radiotherapy treatment, is dedicated to the preparation and administration of radiation therapy within a radiotherapy unit. The technical and relational skills required for this job are different from those of a radiology technician who performs diagnostic imaging procedures. However, these skills seem not to be adequately taught to students in academic programs provided in Italy, thus leading to gaps in knowledge and skills that are only partially filled during the new employee’s onboarding process. The aim of this work is to analyze the role of RTTs and describe the main differences compared to diagnostics from a technical, communicative and relational perspective. In order to investigate these topics and better analyze them, a questionnaire was administered to the working professionals to enquire about RTTs competences, as well as their educational programs and professional training. Most of the questions were outlined with particular reference to the ESTRO Benchmarking Document for RTT, (level 6).

Material/Methods:

A survey was prepared for RTTs trained in Italy who are currently employed in both public and private healthcare facilities within the country. The questionnaire included 40 multiple choice questions divided in four sections (as shown in the table attached), and it was shared with professionals over a three-month period from March to May 2023. Subjective data were collected on topics related to academic and professional training, the new hires’ onboarding and mentoring practices, as well as continuing education, personal satisfaction, involvement of the RTTs in research activities, and aspects of psychology and communication within the work context and training.