Targeting general practitioners: Prospective outcomes of a national education program in radiation oncology

We report on learning outcomes of a standardized national education program aimed at improving general practitioner ( GP ) knowledge about radiation therapy ( RT ) and referral pathways to radiation oncologists ( RO s). Methods In 2014, a GP education program was developed through the Targeting Cancer public awareness campaign of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists ( RANZCR ) Faculty of Radiation Oncology. The sessions were held in RT departments and comprised of RO ‐led case‐based group learning and a department tour. Pre‐ and immediate post‐session surveys assessed four domains: Objective knowledge about RT , understanding of referral pathways to RO s, self‐reported referral behaviours, feedback on the session. A 6‐month follow up survey assessed ongoing knowledge retention. Results Eighteen sessions were held nationwide between October 2014 and March 2016. One hundred and seventy‐four were surveyed. Pre‐session, 96% of GP s reported their knowledge of RT required improvement. Post‐session, 95% rated their knowledge as ‘excellent’, ‘above average’ or ‘competent’. 32.5% of GP s were not aware of the location of their local RT department. 81% reported patients would benefit from having clearer referral pathways to RO s. 96% agreed the GP 's role is to refer cancer patients to relevant specialists to discuss treatment options. However, only 49% were comfortable referring directly to an RO . Post‐session rose to 92%. All respondents felt the session improved their understanding of RT . In the follow up survey, 17 respondents (94%) reported the session had improved their ability to care for cancer patients. Conclusion A national GP education program improves GP knowledge about RT and may influence patient referrals for RT .