A phenomenological study investigating experiences of student learning using an online radiation therapy planning curriculum.

Introduction: Traditionally radiation therapy planning was taught on campus in planning labs, or in the case of fully online programs, during clinical placements. In 2017, an innovative online planning curriculum was developed using a structured, self-directed approach of online learning and assessment, supported by a cloud-based planning system. This study aimed to explore student experiences of learning and practising planning online, and the application of acquired knowledge and skills to clinical practice.

Supporting and preparing patients for radiotherapy: Patients' and radiation therapists' perspectives on their one-to-one consultations.

Objective: Patients are often anxious and lack knowledge of radiotherapy prior to commencing treatment. Evidence-based interventions are required to reduce patient anxiety and increase patient preparation before treatment. This study is part of a larger project examining the effectiveness of an innovative preparatory intervention "RT Prepare," to reduce patient psychological distress prior to treatment for breast cancer.

RT Prepare: a radiation therapist-delivered intervention reduces psychological distress in women with breast cancer referred for radiotherapy.

Background: The aims of this study were to determine whether a radiation therapist-led patient education intervention (RT Prepare) reduced breasts cancer patients' psychological distress (primary endpoint); anxiety, depression and concerns about radiotherapy, and increased knowledge of radiotherapy and preparedness (secondary endpoints). Patient health system usage and costs were also assessed.

Methods: A multiple-baseline study across three sites.

Communication skills training for radiation therapists: preparing patients for radiation therapy.

Introduction: Patients sometimes present for radiation therapy with high levels of anxiety. Communication skills training may assist radiation therapists to conduct more effective consultations with patients prior to treatment planning and treatment commencement. The overall aim of our research is to examine the effectiveness of a preparatory programme 'RT Prepare' delivered by radiation therapists to reduce patient psychological distress.

Australian radiation therapy - Part two: Reflections of the past, the present, the future.

Introduction:  Documentation on the history of Australian radiotherapy is limited. This study provides radiation therapists' (RTs) perspectives of the people, workplace, and work practices in Australian radiotherapy centres from 1960 onwards. It provides a follow-up to our previous study: Australian radiation therapy: An overview - Part one, which outlines the history and development of radiotherapy from conception until present day.