Authors: (including presenting author): :
Kung WS(1), Hung JLC(1), Soong IS(1), Pang H(1), Lo GYF(1), Tang PK(1)
Affiliation: :
(1) Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Radiotherapy
Keyword 2: :
Breast Cancer
Keyword 3: :
Specialist Radiation Therapists
Introduction: :
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Hong Kong. Radiation therapy (RT) is a key component of the curative treatment pathway and represents a major portion of RT services. Providing timely, effective, and high-quality RT care for breast cancer patients is essential.
Objectives: :
To establish the role of Specialist Radiation Therapists (SpRT) in improving clinical outcomes and efficiency in breast cancer RT through: • Optimisation of clinical workflow • Leadership in breast RT dosimetry • Patient-centred care and support • Innovation in RT practice
Methodology: :
A structured pilot program was implemented in 2025 for breast cancer management. Selected radiation therapists received targeted training to undertake extended roles across four core domains: 1. Clinical Workflow Optimisation: SpRTs were trained by clinical oncologists in breast cancer staging, treatment rationale, and toxicity assessment. They supported oncologists in coordinating the RT treatment process. 2. Leadership in Dosimetric Planning for Breast Cancer Radiotherapy: SpRTs developed advanced expertise in RT planning and dosimetric evaluation, ensuring standardised treatment quality. 3. Patient-Centred Support: SpRTs participated in RT review clinics to monitor treatment toxicities and assess quality of life using the EORTC QLQ-BR23 questionnaire. They contributed to counselling, timely intervention, and service quality assurance. 4. RT-Related Innovation: SpRTs supported the integration of advanced RT technologies and the development of locally adapted clinical protocols.
Result & Outcome: :
The program commenced in May 2025, introducing two internationally validated RT regimens—FAST-Forward and Partial Breast Irradiation—to improve efficiency and outcomes. As dated (16Jan2026), 70 patients were enrolled. An AI-assisted auto-contouring model for the tumour bed and clinical target volume reduced contouring time by 25 percent. SpRTs reviewed and revised 178 radiotherapy dosimetry plans prior to oncologist endorsement, enhancing workflow efficiency without compromising treatment quality. Moreover, 61 patients received the FAST-Forward 5-fraction regimen, saving 610 RT treatment visits with equivalent efficacy, optimizing RT machine availability for other patients. SpRTs also attended 248 RT review clinics, freeing oncologists for other duties. Patient satisfaction and EORTC QLQ-BR23 scores aligned with published benchmarks.
