Improving the Implementation of New Techniques and Technologies in Radiation Oncology

Abstract

For many cancer patients, radiation therapy forms an important part of their treatment. Radiation therapy is a highly technical discipline with new techniques and technologies being introduced frequently, aiming to improve patient outcomes and increase efficiency. The timing of the implementation of new technologies and techniques is highly variable across radiation therapy centres and can be delayed due to concerns related to safety and quality. The purpose of the work described in this thesis was to identify barriers to rapid uptake of new techniques and technologies, and explore solutions to enable equitable access for all patients to receive advanced treatment approaches. The overarching hypothesis for the work contained in this thesis: Barriers to the safe, high-quality and timely implementation of new technologies and techniques into New South Wales (NSW) radiation oncology centres can be identified and minimised using targeted interventions.

The initial work in this thesis assesses the implementation of a new technique into radiation therapy centres in NSW, identifying potential barriers and areas for improvement. The thesis continues with two group projects aimed at improving the implementation of technological advancements into radiation therapy through collaboration. Both projects facilitated knowledge-sharing and evaluated the success of each methodology. The studies in the later chapters of the thesis were specifically designed to assist the implementation of new techniques and technologies into radiation therapy centres by addressing the barriers and areas for improvement identified in the earlier work.

In summary, this thesis demonstrates that barriers to the timely, safe and high-quality implementation of new techniques and technologies can be addressed using well-planned, targeted and collaborative strategies, ensuring equitable access for NSW patients. The work in this thesis provides a template for future collaborative and automated projects.