Revision and Implementation of a New National Training Curriculum for Radiation Oncology

Abstract

<h3>Purpose/Objective(s)</h3> The purpose of this project was to develop and implement a new national training curriculum for radiation oncology. Rapid advances in radiation techniques, and increased expansion of services in our country required a new curriculum to reflect radiation oncology practice in the modern era. Once established and ratified by the training faculty, the aim was to introduce the new curriculum into clinical practice across all training sites. <h3>Materials/Methods</h3> An educational subcommittee of the Faculty of Radiologists Radiation Oncology Committee was established. This included representation from faculty members, the National Training Coordinator, the local training coordinators, and two trainee representatives. The National Medical Council's 8 domains of good clinical practice were taken as a basis on which to build the new curriculum. This is to ensure trainees develop a professional approach to work, rather than focusing on clinical aspects alone. International guidelines from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and ESTRO were all reviewed to guide the clinical content of the program. Grant's 6 steps of curriculum design were utilized. <h3>Results</h3> The new training curriculum has been implemented as of July 2021. There is a clear roadmap for trainees to guide them through its clinical and non-clinical aspects. Requirements to pass through each of the 5 years (full-time equivalent) of training are outlined. Trainees develop progressive expertise in the use of radiotherapy to treat patients with all cancer types. This starts with management of oncological emergencies in first year and progresses to include advanced techniques including SABR and brachytherapy. A newly-developed standardized logbook was established for recording radiotherapy planning experience. Workplace based assessments were introduced (including Direct Observation of Radiotherapy Planning skills), initially a minimum number of non-site specified assessments per year was stipulated, with a view to expanding this over the coming years. A list of non-clinical training commitments is now in place, including Problem-Based Learning and Human Factors courses. These aim to develop communication, management and leadership skills. The examination process remains unchanged and is directly associated with another national training program. Satisfactory completion of exams leads to conferring with the Fellowship of the Faculty of Radiologists Royal College of Surgeons (FFR RCSI) Satisfactory completion of training will lead to Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training which permits the doctor to register on the Specialist Division of the Medical Council and to practice independently as a radiation oncologist. <h3>Conclusion</h3> A modern attainable training curriculum was implemented which reflects the 8 domains of good clinical practice. The clinical content is in keeping with the highest international standards allowing international recognition of qualifications