Design of an internationally accredited radiation oncology resident training program incorporating novel educational models.
OBJECTIVE
Our primary aim was to design a new, internationally accredited, comprehensive radiation oncology (RO) training program for Singaporean residents that satisfied the needs of stake holders and incorporated published evidence.


METHODS
The evidence-based method included Medline literature review and broad-based training needs assessment.


RESULTS
Literature review revealed few studies describing or evaluating RO resident training programs. Our program was designed by incorporating available published research and stakeholder views determined by the training needs assessment. The program includes novel evidence-based educational methods, including individually negotiated learning contracts, a mentor program, logbooks, task-based learning, tutorials, and formative plus summative assessments. The content and structure is consistent with most United States, United Kingdom, and Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologist (RANZCR) guidelines, with resident evaluation via RANZCR examinations. The RANZCR accredited the program in January 2002.


CONCLUSIONS
We recommend institutions or countries introducing or revising RO resident training programs use an evidence-based approach, addressing the needs of stake holders (determined by a comprehensive training needs assessment) and incorporating published research. Novel educational methods may be considered in RO training. This new Singapore program is the first to achieve international accreditation by the RANZCR. It is clear that additional research in the design and evaluation of RO resident training programs is required.
Shakespeare
Thomas Philip
TP
The Cancer Institute Radiotherapy Centre, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119074, Singapore. ThomasS@nuh.com.sg
Back
Michael Frederick
MF
Lu
Jiade Jay
JJ
Wynne
Christopher John
CJ
Bloomfield
Leah
L
D035843:Biomedical Research; D003406:Credentialing; D003479:Curriculum; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D007396:Internship and Residency; D017145:Models, Educational; D016730:Program Development; D018787:Radiation Oncology / Q000193:education*; D012846:Singapore; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods