The impact of the introduction of a palliative Macmillan consultant radiographer at one UK cancer centre

• DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20160286
• Publication Date: 2016-07-05T15:44:05Z
• Authors: Rebecca Goldfinch; Rozenn Allerton; Sheena Khanduri; Laura Pettit
• Keywords: Demographics

The UK radiotherapy (RT) workforce needs novel strategies to manage increasing demand. appointment of a palliative RT (PRT) consultant radiographer (CR) offers potential solution enhance patient pathways providing timely RT. This article examined the impact one such appointment.Two prospective audits were completed 1 year apart. All patients receiving PRT for bone metastases between 01/01/2014-31/03/2014 (Audit 1) and 01/01/2015-31/01/2015 2) included. Data collected included demographics, treatment site, dose, fractionation, indication professionals who planned PRT. pathway from decision treat (DTT) commencement was scrutinized.97 identified Audit 87 2. Demographics similar. Figures relate in brackets Indications treatment: pain 55% (61%), metastatic spinal cord compression 41% (38%) other neurological symptoms 4% (1%). CR independently 13% (60%), being supervised 36% (3%). Consultant clinical oncologists 43% (31%), with 7% (6%) by specialist registrars (SpRs). enhanced 2, 85% treated within 14 days compared 73% 1.A has on pathway, enabling quicker times DTT treatment. Continued audit role is required ensure that it complements SpR training.Increasing longevity improved systemic therapies have led greater numbers living longer disease. capacity difficulties faced services.