Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences最新文献

{"title":"Editorial Board/Masthead","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/S1939-8654(26)00292-4","DOIUrl":"10.1016/S1939-8654(26)00292-4","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102478"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148365774","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":"Opening up the West - Expanding Radiation Oncology services in Newfoundland and Labrador","authors":"Sarah Humber","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102383","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102383","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>To advance equitable access to cancer care in Western Newfoundland by leading the development and implementation of Cancer Care Western (CCW) within the new Western Memorial Regional Hospital (WMRH) in Corner Brook. This expansion increases capacity for systemic treatments and initiates radiation therapy services on the West Coast of NL.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>Western Memorial Regional Hospital and CCW began with a Project agreement (PA) between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) and Corner Brook Health Partnership (CBHP) as a public-private partnership (P3). The PA included the building of two above ground bunkers, a CT simulator room, 15 systemic treatment bays, 8 exam rooms, 1 multidisciplinary work area, registration, office space, staff room, conference room and a Garden of Hope. Project management and design began October 2019. Construction and equipment installation was completed with building handover in November 2023. There was a 6-month operational readiness period that led to Go-Live in June 2024. Systemic therapy and clinics transitioned operations on opening.</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>There were a few challenges faced in the development of CCW and WMRH.<ul><li><span>•</span><span><div>Newfoundland is in a relatively remote location that is accessible by boat or air only, which created logistical and delivery challenges.</div></span></li><li><span>•</span><span><div>COVID 19 increased costs, caused supply shortages, and caused demand pressures which shortened timelines and challenged procurement.</div></span></li><li><span>•</span><span><div>Technology selection was complex and required careful planning for operational integration within the new building.</div></span></li><li><span>•</span><span><div>Managing change processes to support staff in maintaining routine operations while transitioning to a new hospital with modern equipment and technology.</div></span></li><li><span>•</span><span><div>There is significant difficulty in hiring specialized radiation oncology professionals which postponed the initiation of radiation services in CCW.</div></span></li></ul></div></div><div><h3>Conclusions/Impact</h3><div>CCW opened in June 2024, expanding cancer services on the west coast with new equipment and specialized staff. Systemic therapy capacity increased from 10 to 15 treatment bays, and clinic space grew from 2 to 8 exam rooms. In August 2024, select patients began receiving CT simulation for radiation therapy, reducing travel to St. John’s. On September 8, 2025, the province delivered its first radiation treatment in Corner Brook. A major milestone in cancer care. CCW significantly improves access to care closer to home, reducing travel burden and advancing NL Health Services’ priority of accessible, patient centered care.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102383"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565122","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)00361-9","DOIUrl":"10.1016/S1939-8654(26)00361-9","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102547"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565379","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":"The The Role of Clinical Competency-Based Education in Training in Radiation Science: A Scoping Review","authors":"Danielle McDonagh","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102361","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102361","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>Clinical competency-based education (CBE) has emerged as a critical strategy to enhance workforce readiness in radiation sciences. Despite growing adoption, significant gaps persist in standardized curricula, training strategies, and competency assessments across disciplines. This scoping review evaluated the role of clinical CBE in training radiation science trainees across radiation therapy, medical dosimetry, radiologic technology, and clinical radiation oncology and radiology to synthesize best practices and evidence-based approaches supporting clinical competence development.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>A systematic search was conducted across EBSCOhost, Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Twenty clinical studies published between 2018 and 2023 were analyzed across four domains: best practices in professional training, competency-based educational frameworks, effective learning strategies, and teaching interventions. Studies were appraised for statistical outcomes, implementation design, and impact on learner performance or clinical readiness. The protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF).</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>Key findings highlighted the effectiveness of inter-professional education, simulation-based training, virtual learning environments, and reflective practice in improving clinical competence. Institutional factors—including prior radiation therapy certification, structured feedback environments, and standardized assessments—enhanced learning outcomes. Emerging technologies such as e-learning platforms and AI-supported decision tools demonstrated positive effects on knowledge acquisition and skill transfer. Variability in program structure, clinical placement hours, and assessment methods influenced competency development across disciplines.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions/Impact</h3><div>Evidence supports integrating structured, competency-based frameworks and interactive learning modalities into radiation science education. Standardization of CBE models may reduce training variability and improve clinical preparedness. Future directions should explore how artificial intelligence can further standardize assessments, personalize learning, and enhance clinical skill development to meet evolving workforce demands.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102361"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565537","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":"“All Aboard!” Assessing and Improving the Onboarding Processes for Newly Hired Radiation Therapists","authors":"Kayli Chen,&nbsp;Tara Rosewall","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102365","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102365","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose/Aim</h3><div>To improve the effectiveness and comprehensiveness of onboarding processes for Radiation Therapists (RTs) at a large academic center by developing a collaborative, milestone-based onboarding resource in conjunction with a re-optimized training schedule.</div></div><div><h3>Methods/Process</h3><div>Insights from a needs assessment of staff trained between 2024–2025 informed the development of a structured onboarding resource and a streamlined training schedule. The resource outlined roles and responsibilities for new staff and their mentors, provided a visual timeline of onboarding progression, defined weekly learning goals, and included comprehensive skills checklists. In response to staff feedback, self-directed modules and activities were also consolidated into the first three days of training, while supplemental training tutorials were moved earlier in the schedule to allow full clinical integration during the final week of onboarding. Both interventions were evaluated through a follow-up questionnaire distributed to the original respondents</div></div><div><h3>Results or Benefits/Challenges</h3><div>The proposed onboarding model is expected to enhance role clarity for new staff, strengthen mentor engagement through clearly defined expectations, and reduce reliance on ad hoc learning by introducing structured milestones and skills checklists. Front‑loading supplemental tutorials may also enhance content relevance and progression towards full clinical workload. However, adapting to this accelerated schedule may be challenging for staff who are unfamiliar with the center’s clinical applications and workflows.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions/Impact</h3><div>The new onboarding resource is expected to improve staff confidence and readiness by ensuring that key learning objectives are met during training. Ultimately, new hires should feel better prepared to apply their skills and judgment in clinical practice, thereby supporting safe and efficient patient care. In addition to improving individual competence, the structured approach aims to strengthen team dynamics by fostering trust among colleagues and between new staff and their patients, creating a more collaborative and supportive clinical environment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102365"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565541","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":"When Every Scan Counts: Operationalizing MRI for Alzheimer’s Therapy in a Constrained System","authors":"Dr Manish Joshi,&nbsp;Gabrielle Brett","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102416","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102416","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Aim&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;New monoclonal antibody therapies targeting amyloid deposits in the brain have recently been approved in Canada for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. These disease-modifying therapies slow cognitive decline by addressing the underlying pathophysiology of amyloid accumulation before irreversible neuronal injury occurs. Radiology is integral to both diagnosis and treatment management, through amyloid PET imaging to confirm disease presence, fluoroscopic lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid sampling, and ongoing MRI surveillance to ensure treatment safety. A key clinical concern is the development of Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA), a spectrum of cerebral edema and microhemorrhages associated with therapy. Because ARIA can occur at any stage, patients often require four to five MRIs in the first year of treatment, timed precisely with infusion cycles to guide continuation or suspension of therapy. This creates substantial operational and clinical coordination challenges within MRI services already burdened by long wait times and limited capacity.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Purpose&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;A multi-site diagnostic imaging team developed a comprehensive workflow to integrate ARIA monitoring into the broader Alzheimer’s treatment pathway. The initiative involved mapping referral, ordering, and scheduling processes to align imaging with infusion appointments, standardizing MRI protocols for ARIA detection, and introducing dedicated ARIA-specific booking slots. Technologists and radiologists received targeted education on imaging, recognizing and reporting ARIA findings, while new closed-loop communication pathways ensured that results were rapidly conveyed to prescribing clinicians for timely treatment decisions. The process was supported by consistent documentation standards and centralized coordination across sites to maintain equity in access and turnaround times.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Benefits/Challenges&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;This initiative enabled consistent, high-quality MRI monitoring that directly supported safe administration of Alzheimer’s therapies and improved interdisciplinary communication between radiology and neurology teams. The workflow provided clinicians with timely information to guide dosing adjustments and mitigate patient risk. However, implementation revealed significant system pressures: MRI departments had to accommodate frequent, time-sensitive imaging without displacing other critical cases. Balancing therapeutic monitoring with existing diagnostic demand required creative scheduling, prioritization frameworks, and engagement of frontline staff in continuous process evaluation. Success depended on cross-functional governance and transparent communication among operational, clinical, and administrative stakeholders.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Impact/Outcomes&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The workflow demonstrated that intensive, treatment-linked MRI monitoring can be safely embedded within an already constrained health system throu","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102416"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565890","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":"Can simulation-based education increase clinical readiness for diagnostic radiographers?","authors":"Lynne Hazell,&nbsp;Heather Lawrence,&nbsp;Hesta Friedrich-Nel,&nbsp;Craig Vincent-Lambert","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102414","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102414","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>Test a simulation-based education (SBE) model to achieve clinical readiness.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Feasibility test with five third-year students; simulated patient + phantom focused on spine radiography; competency assessed one month later; reflective reports analyzed thematically.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Three themes: value of simulation for clinical preparation; safe skills development with simulated patient/phantom; need for additional activities for challenging exams.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Model can be implemented for clinical readiness and inform curriculum; applicable to other health disciplines.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102414"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148582454","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":"Mepilex Dressings in Managing Radiation-Induced Moist Desquamation in Head and Neck Cancer","authors":"Shely Kagan,&nbsp;Yulya Kagan,&nbsp;Tharshini Yoganathan,&nbsp;Madette Galapin,&nbsp;Irene Karam,&nbsp;Christina Yang,&nbsp;Britney Zhang,&nbsp;Shivani Verma,&nbsp;Henry Wong,&nbsp;Amir Safavi,&nbsp;Michael Tjong,&nbsp;Shirley Tse,&nbsp;Shing Fung Lee,&nbsp;Sarah Bayrakdarian,&nbsp;Edward Chow","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102370","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102370","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Purpose/Aim&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Radiation dermatitis (RD), and its severe form, moist desquamation (MD), is a common, painful, and dose-limiting toxicity in head and neck (H&amp;N) cancer patients receiving external beam radiotherapy (RT). MD typically requires approximately 2–4 weeks to heal, during which patients experience substantial discomfort and functional impairment. Severe RD can impair wound healing, increase infection risk, and disrupt daily activities, potentially leading to treatment interruptions and compromised oncologic outcomes. Conventional management, including barrier creams and topical antimicrobials, provides limited therapeutic benefit. Silicone-based foam dressings, such as Mepilex Lite and Mepilex Ag, offer atraumatic adherence, moisture balance, and pain reduction, but real-world evidence of their effectiveness in H&amp;N MD remains limited. This study evaluated their use in a prospective, person-centered clinical setting.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods/Process&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Ten patients with H&amp;N cancer and clinically confirmed MD post-RT were enrolled prospectively and followed until complete healing (Grade 1 on the Moist Desquamation Grading Tool). Dressings were selected based on wound exudate and infection risk (Mepilex Lite for low exudate; Mepilex Ag for heavier exudate or suspected infection) and changed every three days by oncology nurses. At each visit, MD severity was graded independently by the patient and the health care provider (HCP) using a 6-point Moist Desquamation Grading Tool (Grades 0–5). Symptom burden was assessed using a 10-item patient-reported outcome tool, with items scored on a 4-point scale (0–3) from none to severe; lower scores indicated improvement. Photographic documentation standardized wound evaluation. Primary endpoints were MD resolution and time to healing; secondary endpoints included symptom improvement, tolerability, satisfaction, and adverse events.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results or Benefits/Challenges&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Participants’ median age was 69 years (range 44–78), with 70% female. Disease sites included oropharynx, nasopharynx, oral cavity, thyroid, salivary gland, lip, and neck; 80% had squamous cell carcinoma. RT doses ranged from 4000 to 7000 cGy delivered in 20-35 fractions. All wounds achieved complete healing, with a mean time of 8.6 days (SD 3.9) and median of 7 days (range 2-17). No infections, ulcerations, or adverse events were observed. Patient-reported pain decreased from 2.7 to 1.3, burning from 2.3 to 1.1, and interference with daily activity from 2.6 to 1.6. HCP assessments confirmed concordant improvements. Eight patients reported meaningful relief from friction, clothing irritation, and movement-related discomfort, highlighting practical benefits in anatomically complex regions. Dressing selection and application were feasible within routine nursing workflows, demonstrating generalizability.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusions/Impact&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Mepilex Lite and Mepilex Ag are saf","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102370"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148582583","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 Patient Voices to Shape Diagnostic Imaging Services: A Practice Innovation Approach","authors":"Jonathan Joaquin,&nbsp;Marta Yurcan","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102384","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102384","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Purpose/Aim&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Diagnostic imaging (DI) is a critical entry point into cancer diagnosis and treatment, yet patient experience data in this setting is often fragmented, limited to access metrics, or absent altogether. The aim of this initiative was to design and implement a comprehensive, equity-informed Diagnostic Imaging Patient Experience Survey to systematically capture patient perspectives across the full imaging journey, from scheduling and wayfinding to emotional support, communication, privacy, and cultural safety. The ultimate goal was to generate actionable, patient-driven insights to inform service improvements and strengthen people-centred, culturally safe diagnostic imaging care across a multi-site hospital system.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods/Process&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;A multidisciplinary team including Diagnostic Imaging leadership, Patient Experience, Health Justice, and Research collaboratively developed a new patient experience survey using a human-centred care lens. Survey domains were intentionally mapped to key touchpoints in the DI journey: appointment booking and reminders, preparation and arrival, registration and wait times, emotional support, pain management, communication of results, respect, dignity, privacy, and overall satisfaction. To address known gaps in traditional experience measurement, the survey incorporated self-reported sociodemographic questions (e.g., gender identity, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, language, Indigenous identity) and a dedicated question on experiences of discrimination, racism, or cultural unsafety. The survey was deployed using Qualtrics across three hospital sites and multiple imaging modalities, enabling both system-level and modality-specific analysis. Results are reported in aggregate to ensure confidentiality while supporting equity-stratified insights.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results or Benefits/Challenges&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;This initiative enables diagnostic imaging teams to move beyond operational indicators toward a holistic understanding of patient experience, including emotional, cultural, and communication needs. Key benefits include identifying barriers to access (e.g., booking and navigation), opportunities to improve staff-patient communication, and areas requiring targeted equity-informed interventions. Challenges included balancing survey comprehensiveness with respondent burden, ensuring culturally respectful wording, and planning for meaningful use of sociodemographic data without stigmatization. Ongoing engagement with clinical teams is essential to translate findings into sustained improvement.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusions/Impact&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Early implementation demonstrates the feasibility of collecting rich, human-centred experience data in diagnostic imaging at scale. Findings are being used to inform targeted quality improvement initiatives related to appointment communication, emotional support during imaging, and culturally safe care practices. This practice innovatio","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102384"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565124","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":"The Name Game: Current State Adoption of Standardized Nomenclature in Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning Across Canada","authors":"Brian Liszewski,&nbsp;Erika Brown,&nbsp;Amanda Caissie,&nbsp;Heather Donaldson,&nbsp;Annie Hsu,&nbsp;Michelle Nielsen,&nbsp;Fariah Humaira Rahman,&nbsp;Caitlin Gillan","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102379","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2026.102379","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Purpose/Aim&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Standardized treatment planning nomenclature is foundational for consistent radiation therapy planning, quality and safety activities, and scalable data use across jurisdictions. To support pan-Canadian adoption, this study aimed to describe the current-state adoption of standardized nomenclature across radiation therapy treatment-planning elements, characterize variability in implementation and to identify barriers and enablers across centres.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods/Process&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;A bilingual cross-sectional survey was distributed to all 51 radiation therapy centres in a pan-Canadian network in two waves (March–April 2023; November 2024–February 2025) using a national quality and safety distribution list. Each centre was asked to provide a single coordinated response informed by interprofessional input. Responses captured uptake of standardized nomenclature guidance, element-specific implementation, and barriers/enablers. Quantitative responses were summarized descriptively and open-text comments were analyzed thematically.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results or Benefits/Challenges&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;A total of 37 of 51 centres (72.5%) were included in the analysis. Twenty-seven centres (73.0%) reported full or partial use of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine Task Group 263 nomenclature recommendations, and 25 centres (67.6%) reported full or partial use of the Canadian Partnership for Quality Radiotherapy guidance on common nomenclature in Canadian radiation treatment programs. Use of one guidance document did not consistently align with use of the other. When asked about standardization irrespective of a specific standard, most centres reported some level of standardized nomenclature across 10 treatment-planning elements, with most implementation occurring greater than 12 months prior to survey completion. Adoption was most consistent for normal tissue structure names with only 5.4% [n=2] respondents identifying they had not adopted standardized nomenclature. Adoption was least consistent for optimization structures and prescriptions (each 21.6% [n=8] not yet standardized). Notably, optimization structure standardization showed recent uptake, with 59.5% overall reporting adoption within the prior 12 months. Open-text comments described incremental implementation, often by treatment site, with some centres reinforcing compliance through templates and automation that pre-populate fields. Reported challenges included limited ability to enforce consistent adoption, with allowance for justified local variation. Barriers centred on infrastructure and interprofessional engagement, including lack of an implementation leadership team. Enablers included perceived quality and safety benefit and involvement in multi-centre provincial and pan-Canadian initiatives.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusions/Impact&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;In this current-state pan-Canadian survey, standardized nomenclature adoption across treatment-planning element","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"57 4","pages":"Article 102379"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148565374","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}