Part-time consultants in radiation oncology.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the attitudes and experiences of staff towards radiation oncologists who work part-time. A questionnaire was sent to all radiation oncologists, radiation oncology registrars and radiation therapists, and a nursing and clerical representative working in all radiation oncology departments throughout Australia and New Zealand. Of 1242 questionnaires, 446 (35.9%) were returned. Of these, 323 out of 435 respondents (74.2%) supported the concept of a radiation oncologist working part-time. The main barriers to part-time work were inadequate provision of cover, the inability to be contacted when not rostered on, and perceived reduced quality of patient care. The majority of respondents supported part-time employment in radiation oncology. However, the conclusions made from this survey are limited by the poor response rate. For a successful part-time career in radiation oncology, the following points need to be ensured: (i) an equitable pro-rata workload that encompasses both clinical and non-clinical duties; (ii) a clear and well-publicized timetable that is strictly adhered to with special emphasis on completing work prior to non-rostered days; (iii) clear mechanisms in place to deal with patient or other queries on non-rostered days; (iv) a mechanism for being contacted for urgent problems; and (v) good communication between the part-time radiation oncologist, other staff and patients.
Vinod
Shalini K
SK
Cancer Therapy Centre, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. shalini.vinod@swsahs.nsw.gov.au
Jalaludin
Bin B
BB
Rodger
Alan
A
Turner
Sandra
S
Kelly
Lyndell
L
Thornton
Deborah
D
Clark
Catherine
C
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001315:Australia; D004651:Employment / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D018787:Radiation Oncology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires