Educating radiation therapists in developing countries: professional education for change

Abstract

The radiation oncology service in the developing world is inadequate and in many countries absent. Radiation therapists practising within a fully functional and integrated team contribute to a quality service. However, education is the key to unlock this potential. Unless positive steps are taken, the gap between state of the art radiation oncology and the available service in a low or medium income context will widen relentlessly. Patients diagnosed with cancer are increasing, and early detection combined with appropriate treatment will lead to cure for many. In advanced diseases many will be relieved of intense suffering through the contribution that radiation oncology makes to palliative care. Hence, to effectively address the burden of cancer we need to take advantage of the developments with insight. The first step towards a quality service is documenting available services and education or training programmes. Awareness of what the developed world presents as the standard in radiation oncology is necessary. It is also important to explore an appropriate response for low income countries to these developments. Technology developments are many but not all advances will serve the health care needs of the country in question