Implementation of a Web-based Platform to Improve Radiation Oncology Education and Quality in African Nations

Abstract

Chartrounds (www.chartrounds.com) is a free web-based virtual conferencing platform for radiation oncologists to review cases with leading disease-site experts. Chartrounds was founded in the US in 2010, and in recent years the international member base has grown substantially. To respond to the increased interest in Chartrounds globally, 4 dedicated international Chartrounds sites were developed: Chartrounds India, Chartrounds Africa, Chartrounds Latin America, and Chartrounds China. Following the success of Chartrounds India, Chartrounds Africa was launched in January 2018. Our initial experience with this initiative is reported here. The US Chartrounds platform was adapted to create Chartrounds Africa (afr.chartrounds.com). Through a partnership with the African Organization for Research and Treatment in Cancer (AORTIC), Africa-based specialists were recruited, and the potential Chartrounds Africa audience was targeted through the AORTIC membership email list. Clinicians with experience in African clinical settings were also recruited. The first Chartrounds Africa session commenced in January 2018, and one-hour disease site and/or technique focused sessions have continued on a monthly basis. The teleconferencing platform was changed from GoToMeeting to Zoom in order to facilitate the sessions. Between January 2018 and September 2019, 14 Chartrounds Africa sessions were completed, led by 10 different specialists and covering 6 disease sites/topics (Breast: 3, Gastrointestinal: 3, Genitourinary: 3, Gynecologic: 3, Head & neck: 1, Thoracic: 1). Sessions addressed questions pertaining to dose, field size and concurrent therapy. At the conclusion of March 2019, 42 oncologists registered as members. Thirty-three members had participated in at least one Chartrounds Africa session. The average number of participants per session was 3 (range 1-6). Chartrounds Africa has the potential to be a useful online platform for radiation oncology case review and education. Initiatives to increase participation such as incorporation of French-speaking sessions are currently being implemented. In addition, additional feedback through informal channels (i.e. email) will be sought in order to inform future changes to Chartrounds Africa.