Patient engagement with radiation therapists: Patient perspectives, challenges, and opportunities. A systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Radiotherapy is a major component of cancer care and treatment is delivered almost exclusively by therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists (RTTs). Numerous government and professional guidance publications have recommended a person-centred approach to healthcare through communication and collaboration between professionals, agencies, and users. With approximately half of patients undergoing radical radiotherapy experiencing some degree of anxiety and distress, RTTs are uniquely placed as frontline cancer professionals to engage with patients regarding their experience. This review seeks to map the available evidence of patient reported views of their experience of being treated by RTTs and any impact, this treatment had on the patient's frame of mind or perception of treatment.

Methods: In line with the principles of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) systematic review methodology, a review of relevant literature was conducted. Electronic databases MEDLINE, PROQUEST, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched.

Results: Nine hundred and eighty-eight articles were identified. Twelve papers were included in the final review.

Conclusion: Increased time with, and continuity of RTTs during treatment has a positive influence on patients' perspectives of RTTs. A positive patient perspective of their engagement with RTTs can be a strong predictor of overall satisfaction in radiotherapy.

Implications for practice: RTTs should not underestimate the impact of their supportive role in guiding patients through treatment. A standardised method for integrating patients' experience and engagement with RTTs is lacking. Further RTT led research is required in this area.

Keywords: Narrative review; Patient engagement; Patient perspective; Radiation therapist; Radiotherapy experience; Therapeutic radiographer.