Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences最新文献

{"title":"RTi3 2026 JMIRS Foreword for National Innovation Snapshot","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102550","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102550","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102550"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565377","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Creating a Master Plan for Radiation Therapists","authors":"Caitlin Gillan, Nicole Harnett, Arish Alam","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102355","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102355","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>Radiation therapists (RTTs) have increasingly been pursuing graduate (master’s) degrees in efforts to acquire additional knowledge and skills and advance their careers. At a system level, it is important to appreciate trends and interest in graduate education to better support RTTs’ needs and appreciate the shifting human health resources (HHR) landscape.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>A 20-item pan-Canadian survey was developed using Microsoft Forms, for both an environmental scan and needs assessment. The target population was all RTTs in Canada. Item format included multiple choice and Likert scales, as well as several open-ended comment questions. Following capture of basic demographics, the survey branched based on whether the respondent noted either possessing or currently pursuing a graduate degree, or never having commenced one. The former were asked to provide details of their degree. The latter were asked about interest in pursuing a graduate degree, priorities, and potential barriers. The survey was distributed electronically through various informal leadership lists and personal contacts with a request to cascade organically. The survey was analysed using descriptive statistics, with a thematic analysis conducted for open-ended responses. Comparisons were made between Canadian jurisdictions where relevant.</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>A total of 465 valid responses were included in the analysis, representing a 16% response rate nationally (465/2860). Alberta (n=47,19%) and Ontario (n=212,19%) had the highest, and the Prairies (Manitoba and Saskatchewan, n=25,15%) and Quebec (n=87,11%) had the lowest. The majority of respondents do not hold master’s degrees (n=363); others either hold them (n=66) or are in progress with them (n=36). The most-pursued degrees are an MSc/MHSc in a field related to radiation oncology (n=32,31%), an MSc/MHSc in a more generalized field (n=20,20%), and an MEd (n=16,16%). For those not possessing graduate degrees, 47% (n=169) claimed to be either extremely or somewhat interested in pursuing one in future. Of those interested, 65 (31%) expressed interest in pursuing a degree within 18 months and a further 70 (33%) within five years. This suggests that by 2030, there could be up to a 57% growth in the number of master’s-qualified RTTs. When asked about factors that impact the decision to undertake a graduate degree, 90% (n=312) of respondents indicated that work-life balance was ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ important, followed by interest (n=271,79%) and cost (n=267,78%). When asked opinions about rationale for future degree selection, many anticipated the growth of advanced practice and other expertise within the RTT field, but this was countered by comments from other respondents that few opportunities for career advancement exist in RTT practice, creating a prominent barrier to pursuing additional education.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions/Im","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102355"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565644","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Subscription","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/S1939-8654(26)00293-6","DOIUrl":"10.1016/S1939-8654(26)00293-6","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102479"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565891","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Empowering Radiation Therapists to Support Cancer Patients on Cannabis for Therapeutic Purposes","authors":"Yvette Cometa, Darby Erler, Saher Ali","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102458","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102458","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Since the legalization of recreational cannabis in 2018, its use among cancer patients for symptom management has likely increased [7]. However, evidence guiding its efficacy and clinical application remains limited, raising concerns about potential misuse without appropriate healthcare guidance [2,5]. Radiation therapists (RTTs) receive minimal training on cannabis for therapeutic purposes (CTP), limiting their ability to provide informed patient care despite patients’ expressed desire to receive information from their healthcare professionals [4,5,7]. This quality improvement project aimed to increase RTTs' confidence and preparedness to engage in evidence-based discussions regarding CTP with cancer patients at our institution, supporting more informed, patient-centred care and advancing professional practice. It also sought to increase RTT awareness and facilitate appropriate patient referrals to the pharmacist-led Cannabis Consulting Service (CCS) available at our institution. The CCS provides patients with education, clinical guidance, safe access and support regarding therapeutic cannabis use [3].</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>This quality improvement initiative used online, anonymous surveys to assess RTTs' knowledge, confidence, and clinical practices regarding CTP, and to evaluate the impact of an educational intervention. The survey was adapted from a previously developed, institutionally approved instrument and modified for local use [6]. Participation was voluntary and conducted at a single institution.</div><div>The pre-intervention survey assessed baseline knowledge, perceived preparedness based on existing education and training, and self-reported confidence in discussing cannabis with patients. It also evaluated awareness of the pharmacist-led CCS, explored clinical practice patterns, including frequency of initiating conversations about cannabis use, and documented actions taken when patients disclosed use. Participants also identified priority topics for further education.</div><div>An evidence-based educational intervention was then delivered, incorporating guidance on low-risk use, safety considerations, communication strategies, and practical tools for initiating patient discussions [1].</div><div>A post-intervention survey, using the same survey platform, reassessed knowledge, confidence, preparedness, and anticipated changes in practice. All responses were collected anonymously. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data and compare pre- and post-intervention results.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 84 of 120 RTTs completed the baseline survey (response rate: 70%), indicating strong departmental engagement with the topic of CTP. Baseline findings demonstrated that patient-initiated discussions regarding cannabis use were common in clinical practice. However, respondents reported low levels of confidence and felt inadequately prepared to provide evid","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102458"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565889","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Understanding RTTs’ Intentions to Execute Best Practice Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour","authors":"Jennifer Dang, Tara Rosewall","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102402","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102402","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>Radiation Therapists (RTTs) acquire knowledge, skills, and understanding to perform best practice via initial training and ongoing professional development. However, adoption of best practice may not always be feasible given the nature of the clinical environment. The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) can help understand the impact of professional development on a healthcare professional’s intention to adopt best practices, measuring five main constructs: intention, social influence, beliefs about capabilities, moral norms, and beliefs about consequences. The purpose of this study is to use a generally acknowledged ‘best practice’ (bladder/rectum prep for prostate radiotherapy) as a specific clinical example to examine factors that may influence intention to adopt best practice in Canadian RTTs.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A four-part survey hosted on Redcap was shared via email amongst RTTs and Radiation Therapy students across Canada via CAMRT membership notification blasts from March to June 2025. Part 1 included general demographics, Part 2 included aspects of the practice environment, Part 3 included perceived ‘best practice’ for prostate prep, and Part 4 included the CPD-RQ. The CPD-RQ is a validated questionnaire, based on TPB, where questions are grouped to obtain a mean score reflective of the five main constructs. A high score (max 7) represents a positive assessment of the construct. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used to identify any relationship between RTT intention to adopt ‘best practice’ and other planned behaviour constructs.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 228 survey responses were received. The number of complete responses varied across the survey sections, with 133 respondents completing all four parts. Of these, 118 respondents identified as RTTs, mostly working in Canada, working in treatment delivery (78.0%), treatment planning (12.7%) and simulation (9.3%). 122 RTTs completed the CPD-RQ section. The majority of those respondents (97.6%) had an intention score of 5 or higher. The mean score for each construct is as follows (mean, SD): intention (6.54, 0.65), social influence (6.31, 0.74), beliefs about capabilities (5.94, 0.81), moral norms (6.51, 0.61), and beliefs about consequences (6.55, 0.65). Moral norms had a moderate to high linear association with intention (r = 0.57), followed by social influence (r = 0.47) and beliefs about consequence (r = 0.44), whereas beliefs about capabilities had a low association (r = 0.30), p < 0.05 for all correlations.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Responses to this questionnaire suggest that most RTTs intend to execute what they perceive to be best practice for prostate prep. The intention to adopt that best practice is most strongly influenced by one’s sense of professional or ethical obligation (moral norms). Consistent with TPB, the low association with ‘beliefs about capabilities’ ma","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102402"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148566005","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Beyond the Linac: Defining the Global Research Identity of the Radiation Therapist: A Systematic Review","authors":"Cynthia L Eccles, Lucy SC Davies, Lisa McDaid, Mairead Daly, Meegan Shepherd","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102358","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102358","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>The global expansion of radiotherapy (RT) research has increased expectations for radiation therapists (RTTs) to contribute as researchers, academics, trialists, and technology leaders. Despite a growing body of scholarship, the content, structure and scope of RTT-led research remain poorly defined. This systematic review identifies, classifies, and analyses RTT-led research to define global research domains and professional research identity.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>A 3-stage search strategy guided by PRISMA-ScR and Arksey & O’Malley identified literature (2000-2025) from: 1) PubMed, Embase and CINAHL using professional and research-related terms; 2) the Society and College of Radiographers Doctoral Log to capture RTT doctoral research; 3) Radiography and the Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences keywords “radiotherapy” and/or “radiation therapy”. Three reviewers independently screened records. Data extraction used a consensus framework, where titles advanced to abstract review if ≥2 “yes,” 3 “maybe,” or 2 “maybe” and 1 “yes” scores were assigned. Titles and abstracts underwent thematic analysis (TA) to identify research domains and cross-cutting capabilities.</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>From >2,800 records, 1,763 unique titles met TA inclusion criteria. RTT-led research demonstrated substantial interdisciplinarity, with 50.4% of titles covering 5 research domains: 1) RT Planning & Optimization (27.3% n=482): treatment planning systems, dose optimization, IMRT/VMAT techniques, algorithmic improvements, target delineation 2) Clinical Practice & Workflow (12.8%, n=225): treatment protocols, patient positioning/immobilization, dosimetry, clinical audit, quality improvement, service redesign 3) Professional Education, Training & Workforce (24.1% combined: education 13.3%, n=235; staffing & workforce 10.8%, n=190): curriculum design & pedagogy, simulation technologies, clinical placement models, academic career pathways, roles, scope of practice, staffing sustainability 4) Technology, Imaging & Innovation (42.9%combined: planning 27.3%, imaging 9.3%, adaptive RT 6.4%, technology/AI 1.4%): image-guided & adaptive workflows, motion management, MR-guided RT, radiomics, &AI-enabled processes 5) Patient Experience & Communication (2.8%, n=49): patient-reported outcomes, psychosocial & supportive care, communication about risk, sexuality, & body image Three cross-cutting strands included: translational imaging and radiobiology, normal tissue toxicity, patient-reported outcomes and survivorship. RTT research overlapped with medical physics and radiation oncology in technology and outcomes respectively while remaining strongly embedded in daily practice, education and service delivery. Of the 1st 145 abstracts screened, 51% progressed to full manuscript review and repeat TA; analysis is ongoing.</div></div><div><h3","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102358"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565554","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Your Symptoms Matter (YSM): A Quality Initiative to Improve Completion Rates of Symptoms Screening via Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) among Radiation Therapy Patients at a Regional Cancer Centre","authors":"Agnes Cheung MSc (QIPS), BSc (Hons), MRT(T), Breanna McGilvray MHM, RKin, Dr. Zahra Kassam MBBS, MSc, FRCR (UK), FRCP(C), DipABLM, Dan Pineda MHI, CIPP/C, Giovanna Wu MEd, BSc, MRT(T), Asvena Sriharan BSc (Hons), MRT(T), Stella Michael RN, Natalie Rozanec APRT(T), MRT(T), MSc","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102455","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102455","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><em>Context</em> Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are essential in oncology for capturing symptoms directly from patients, supporting timely intervention and improved outcomes [1,2]. In Ontario, Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) implemented the “Your Symptoms Matter” (YSM) program to embed PROMs into routine cancer care. At our Regional Cancer Centre, radiation therapy patients complete tools such as ESAS-r+ and EPIC at consult and during treatment using paper, kiosks, or online platforms.</div><div><em>Problem Statement</em> Despite established workflows, PROM completion rates at SRCC remain suboptimal (∼40%), below the provincial target of 85%. This limits systematic symptom identification, despite high prevalence of untreated symptoms in cancer patients, potentially impacting treatment continuity and outcomes [3,4,5].</div><div><em>Project Objective</em></div><div>This QI project aimed to increase YSM completion rates among patients undergoing radiation therapy at our Regional Cancer Centre from 40.2% to 85% by May 31, 2025, improving symptom detection and patient-centred care.</div></div><div><h3>Materials & Methods</h3><div>This quality improvement initiative used an interrupted time series design from October 2024 to May 2025 to evaluate changes in YSM completion rates among patients undergoing radiation therapy at our Regional Cancer Centre. Monthly completion data were obtained from the Health Informatics team and analyzed using statistical process control (SPC) p-charts to assess process variation and intervention impact over time.</div><div>A multidisciplinary working group conducted root cause analyses using process mapping, Fishbone diagrams, 5-Whys, and Pareto analysis. Data sources included four 3-hour direct observations of clinic workflows, informal staff and patient interviews, a benchmarking site visit to a high-performing cancer centre, and a patient survey (n=24) to identify barriers to completion.</div><div>Interventions were implemented iteratively using Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles and focused on three key areas: (1) enhanced patient education using standardized materials, QR codes, and teach-back methods; (2) structured staff and volunteer engagement with defined roles, training, and real-time reminder systems; and (3) integration of a “traffic light” dashboard within the EMR to prompt clinician review of symptom scores.</div><div>Outcome, process, and balancing measures were tracked using surveys, chart audits, and tracking logs to evaluate effectiveness and monitor unintended impacts on workflow and staff experience.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>YSM completion rates among patients undergoing radiation therapy at our Regional Cancer Centre demonstrated a modest but consistent improvement following intervention implementation. Completion increased by 10.5%, from 33.5% in January 2025 (initiation of first intervention) to 44.0% in May 2025. Statistical process contro","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102455"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565837","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Implementation of a Transfer of Accountability Tool for Radiation Patients Requiring Unplanned Nursing Assessment","authors":"Vanessa Hribar, Amanda Lula, Ruvette Coelho, Tanya Bigg, Brian Leung, Laura Hodgson, Kate Borodina","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102457","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102457","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Transfer of Accountability (TOA) is the process of transferring patient-specific information, the care of the patient and the associated accountability from one health care provider to another. TOA is a required organization practice for Accreditation Canada [1]. Radiation therapy patients may require an unplanned nursing assessment while on radiation treatment, requiring TOA to facilitate this safely and in a timely manner. An unplanned nursing assessment may be requested to address uncontrolled symptoms such as pain, diarrhea or nausea and vomiting. In some cases, the symptoms may be affecting the patient’s ability to tolerate the radiation treatment position, thus timely intervention is crucial. Historically, TOA, from radiation therapist (MRT(T)) to nursing, has been performed verbally in our department [2]. A challenge in performing a seamless TOA has been the inability to document and communicate effectively due to working in two different clinical information systems with limited interfacing. It was imperative that an improvement initiative be undertaken to address any existing gaps and to ensure timely and safe access to nursing assessments [3].</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>In collaboration with nursing, a TOA tool was piloted in June 2025, to complement (not replace) the existing verbal TOA when sending a radiation therapy patient for an unplanned nursing assessment. The tool was to be completed by the MRT(T) requesting the nursing assessment and provided to the nurse accepting the patient. The tool was not meant to replace any documentation that should occur by either the MRT(T) or the nurse managing the patient, but served to bridge the potential communication gap since the nurses performing the assessment could not reliably access the patient care documentation entered by the MRT(T)s.</div><div>Initial implementation consisted of a TOA paper tool with the following categories: Date/Time, MRT’s name, sending location and extension, patient name, hospital unique number, name of patient’s radiation oncologist, disease site and fractions delivered, reason for requesting nursing assessment, safety risks/preventative measures and additional information category. After the patient assessment was complete, the nurse documented in the electronic health record and confidentially discarded the paper tool.</div><div>In March 2026, the paper tool was converted to a TOA patient care note in the electronic health record using a smart phrase template with the following categories: sending location and extension, reason for requesting nursing assessment, actions taken by MRT(T) and additional information/risk assessment category.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Initial feedback received from both MRT(T) and nursing after launching the paper tool was positive, as shared at staff meetings and huddles. The nursing assessment appointment is booked in the electronic health record after a request by ","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102457"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565888","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Radiation Therapists’ Perspectives on Clinical Specialist Radiation Therapist Prescribing Medication and Ordering Imaging","authors":"Manar Al-Wazzan, Thomas Farrell, Marcia Smoke, Jasleen Uppal, Krista McGarth","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102357","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102357","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>The Clinical Specialist Radiation Therapist (CSRT) role has expanded in Canada to address increasing system pressures within radiation oncology, including workforce shortages, treatment delays, and rising patient complexity. While CSRTs already contribute advanced clinical expertise, the potential expansion of their scope to include medication prescribing and diagnostic imaging ordering remains underexplored from the perspective of frontline Radiation Therapists (RTTs). The purpose of this study was to examine Canadian RTTs’ perceptions of expanding the CSRT role to include these responsibilities, with particular attention to perceived benefits, risks, professional boundaries, and implementation considerations within clinical practice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>A qualitative research design was employed using one-on-one, semi-structured interviews. Nine participants were recruited, including eight RTTs and one CSRT, representing a range of clinical experience levels and practice settings across Canada. Ethical approval was obtained through the Hamilton Integrated Research Ethics Board. Interviews were conducted virtually via Zoom, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. The interview guide consisted of eight open-ended questions and two demographic questions, refined following a pilot interview to improve clarity and depth. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase reflexive thematic analysis approach. To enhance rigor, two independent thematic analyses were conducted and compared, with discrepancies resolved through discussion. Member checking was offered to participants, and thematic saturation was reached when no new themes emerged.</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>Six major themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Specialized Clinical Expertise and Role Definition, (2) Efficiency and Workflow Optimization, (3) Patient-Centered Continuity of Care, (4) Professional Boundaries and Safety, (5) Interdisciplinary Dynamics, and (6) Systemic and Structural Barriers. Participants widely recognized the potential for CSRT role expansion to improve workflow efficiency, reduce delays in care, and enhance patient access to timely medications and imaging, particularly in palliative settings. CSRTs were viewed as well-positioned to make protocol-driven clinical decisions due to their disease-site expertise and close patient contact. However, participants also expressed concerns regarding variability in education, preparedness for prescribing medications, accountability, and medico-legal responsibility. Trust relationships with radiation oncologists, clarity of medical directives, and site-specific role customization were identified as critical determinants of feasibility and safety.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions/Impact</h3><div>Findings suggest that RTTs are cautiously supportive of expanding the CSRT role to include medication prescribing and imaging ordering, provided ","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102357"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565984","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Optimizing Radiation Therapy Setup Through Integrated Gantry-Based Display of Multimodal Setup Information","authors":"Stephanie Sae, Edwin Chan","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102376","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102376","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>For over a decade, our institution relied on free-text setup notes within the MOSAIQ notes section to guide radiation treatment delivery. With the installation of an Elekta Harmony Linear Accelerator featuring an integrated gantry-mounted display screen, an opportunity arose to improve treatment efficiency, reduce setup errors, and better leverage integrated technology. The aim of this project was to transition from traditional word-based setup notes to a combined, site-specific, multimodal setup system that fully utilizes the integrated display screen, standardizes setup information, and supports safe, accurate treatment delivery—particularly in the context of a fast-paced clinic with increasing treatment complexity and multi-site palliative care.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>The transition involved redesigning setup documentation to consolidate all relevant setup information into a single, site-specific display. This included the development of a structured library of setup devices, eScribe templates generated from CT simulation, tattoo schematics with anatomical references, and site-specific setup photographs. Devices associated with a higher incidence of setup error were identified and assigned additional verification steps. Each treatment site for a patient maintains its own distinct setup information to minimize cross-site confusion. An initial working group trialed multiple iterations directly on the Elekta Harmony Linear Accelerator before standardizing the approach. This process resulted in minimizing free-text setup notes in favor of visual and structured elements. Implementation was phased, beginning with simpler and more standardized treatment sites such as lower gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) setups. Once these workflows were stabilized, the project expanded to sites with more complex settings, including head and neck, abdominal, and thoracic treatments involving specialized immobilization devices and multi-parameter positioning. Future sites identified for transition include spinal stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) spine and four-field breast treatments.</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>A primary benefit of the new system is that all setup information is presented on a single screen without scrolling, reducing cognitive load and the risk of missed details. This is particularly beneficial for complex palliative patients receiving treatment to multiple sites, as each site’s setup is clearly separated and visually distinct. The integrated display enhances workflow efficiency, consistency, and clarity for therapists at the treatment unit. Challenges included an initial learning curve for staff and determining the most effective visual presentation of setup information. Early implementation relied on one-hour formal in-service sessions and written “how-to” documents, which generated numerous questions and revealed inconsistencies in understand","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102376"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565985","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}