Daily waiting time management for modern radiation oncology department in Indian perspective

Abstract

Introduction: Radiation therapy is one of the most technically sophisticated branch of medical sciences which caters to very ill patients, some of whom may be terminally ill. Since patients are treated on an outpatient basis which requires daily visit to hospital for a number of days, it can make them sensitive toward any increase in waiting time for their radiation treatment. This could be a source of stress for them. However, given the technical sophistication involved and varied clinical profile of patients, some amount of delay is inevitable.

Aim & objective: To compile and suggest strategies to manage patient waiting time in Radiation oncology department to achieve optimum patient' satisfaction.

Method: The radiation oncologists in different institutes of the country were interviewed telephonically and were asked about the practices followed in their institutes/ departments in managing the patient waiting time during radiation treatment. The best practices being followed and the suggestions were compiled.

Conclusion: Now it is being recognized that meticulous management of waiting time could go a long way in driving patient's satisfaction. Twoway communications are the best strategy. Apart from this many provisions could be made in waiting area as per institutional preferences and protocol to engage patient in waiting area of radiation treatment facility.

Keywords: Patient's satisfaction; radiation therapy; technical sophistication; twoway communication.