Competency level in radiotherapy across EU educational programmes: A cross-case study evaluating stakeholders' perceptions

J G Couto; S McFadden; P McClure; P Bezzina; C Beardmore; C Hughes

doi:10.1016/j.radi.2021.10.015

Competency level in radiotherapy across EU educational programmes: A cross-case study evaluating stakeholders' perceptions

Radiography (Lond). 2022 Feb;28(1):180-186. doi: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.10.015. Epub 2021 Oct 30.

Authors

J G Couto¹, S McFadden², P McClure³, P Bezzina⁴, C Beardmore⁵, C Hughes⁶

Affiliations

¹ Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta. Electronic address: Jose.g.couto@um.edu.mt.
² School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT37 0QB, Ireland. Electronic address: s.mcfadden@ulster.ac.uk.
³ School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT37 0QB, Ireland. Electronic address: pa.mcclure@ulster.ac.uk.
⁴ Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta. Electronic address: paul.bezzina@um.edu.mt.
⁵ Society and College of Radiographers, London, UK; European Federation of Radiography Societies, Lievegem, Belgium. Electronic address: CharlotteB@sor.org.
⁶ School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT37 0QB, Ireland. Electronic address: cm.hughes@ulster.ac.uk.

PMID: 34728137
DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.10.015

Abstract

Introduction: The education of Therapeutic Radiographers (TRs) is regulated in some countries but is not standardised across the EU, leading to differences in competencies between and within member states. This study aimed to explore stakeholders' perceptions regarding underdeveloped competencies of TRs practising on the linear accelerator, identified in a previous study by the same research team.

Methods: Interviews with stakeholders from four countries (selected based on the characteristics of their degrees) were performed as part of this cross-case study. Stakeholders were asked to provide their perception regarding the least developed competencies identified in a previous study.

Results: The 27 stakeholders confirmed that Pharmacology, Quality Assurance (QA), Management and Leadership, Research (from the previous study) were underdeveloped and identified Image Verification and Critical Thinking as additional underdeveloped competencies. Suggested causes included: lack of regulation of required competencies at the national level, lack of training dedicated to radiotherapy (RT) (taught within generic modules) and lack of time within the degree programme. The ideal academic level to develop these competencies and whether they are essential varied between country and stakeholder.

Conclusion: It is essential to regulate learning outcomes at the national level to ensure a high level of care is provided to all RT patients and, ideally, standardise it across Europe. Education institutions should review their curricula to ensure that sufficient time is dedicated to RT and that the essential competencies are developed. Due to time constraints within some programmes, some competencies must be developed after graduation.

Implications for practice: Lack of regulation of learning outcomes (at European level and national level in many countries) and lack of RT-specific training lead to underdeveloped competencies that may compromise patient care.

Keywords: Competencies; Education; European union; Professional issues; Radiotherapy.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Allied Health Personnel*
Curriculum*
Europe
Humans
Leadership