Extended Hours Working in Radiotherapy in the UK

摘要: Abstract Aims To analyse extended hours working patterns within UK cancer centres and to assess alternatives the normal 9.00am 5.00pm day. Materials methods Questionnaires were sent 62 radiotherapy managers in June July 2005 survey where had been implemented, objectives for using a longer day how departments organised their service issues, including staffing levels, costs patients. This was followed by visits six that hours. A second questionnaire 60 physics September requested information of daily, monthly annual megavoltage machine servicing quality assurance (QA). third distributed all outpatients from four who attended on single 2005. It looked at patient preference treatment Results In total, 57 (92%) responded. Thirty-one (55%) hours, 22 (39%) short-term experience three (5%) no experience. Increasing capacity reduce waiting lists main reason The additional predominantly worked radiographers, with little or support other department disciplines. QA spreadsheet returned 53% ( n =32) physicists. average amount Quality Assurance (QA) work being scheduled out each 35% (0–100%). completed 470 When asked if patients would want come reasonable appointment time outside day, 29% =136) said ‘yes' 12% =55) unsure. Conclusion concluded two shifts covering an 11.5h is robust alternative taking into consideration efficient use radiographers appointments.