Education models used across Europe to train Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiotherapists: a cross-case study

[EN] Interviews with radiotherapy (RT) stakeholders were completed across four European countries to identify the educational models used across Europe and how they affect competencies of Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiotherapists (TR/RTTs). The stakeholders identified the following educational models: Programmes below European Qualifications Framework (EQF) level 6 (EQF4 or EQF5) RT-only BSc programmes (EQF6)Multiple-specialism BSc programmes (EQF6)RT-only apprenticeships (EQF6)Multiple-specialism BSc followed by an MSc (EQF6→EQF7)Integrated masters (EQF7)RT-only pre-registration MSc (EQF7)‘Common trunk’ model (EQF6 or EQF7) Each educational model has its set of advantages and disadvantages, but most  models can be used to achieve the same essential competencies of TR/RTTs. Some models showed weaknesses in their ability to develop adequate RT competencies (low EQF level, low RT-specific content). Regulating the standards of practice at national level ensures that essential competencies are developed across all course programmes, improving the care to RT patients.EACEA (European Education and Culture Executive Agency), University of MaltaCouto, J.; Mcfadden, S.; Mcclure, P.; Bezzina, P.; Hughes, C. (2022). Education models used across Europe to train Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiotherapists: a cross-case study. En 8th International Conference on Higher Education Advances (HEAd'22). Editorial Universitat Politècnica de València. 1125-1133. https://doi.org/10.4995/HEAd22.2022.144051125113

A Review of the Applicability of Current Green Practices in Healthcare Facilities

Background: Circular economy (CE) has raised great interest as a concept and as a development model worldwide. This concept aims to provide a substitute for the linear economic model, which was based on production and consumption, continuous growth, and resources depletion. CE allows a greener economy with sustainable development and promotes more balanced societies. The healthcare sector is a major contributor to the climate crisis, with a carbon footprint representing 4.4% of global net emissions. It is thus essential to rethink the applicability of CE in healthcare. Methods: We conducted a scoping review guided by the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework and utilised PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist. A systematic search from MEDLINE complete, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases published between 1992 and 2022. Results: Through database searching a total of 1018 records were identified and 475 duplicates were removed. From the total search, 543 articles were screened by title/abstract according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After screening, 38 full-text articles were selected and assessed for eligibility. Forty-seven additional records were also identified through other sources and screened for eligibility. Other sources included: 12 articles from snowballing of previous papers; 9 articles following peer-reviewers suggestions; 19 reports from relevant organisations in CE and healthcare; two webpage, and one book. Conclusion: Specific areas were identified where hospitals could reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and consequently their negative environmental impact, namely through waste management, energy, water, transportation/travel, hospital design, food optimisation, green procurement, and behaviour. Also, lack of staff awareness and knowledge of the environmental impact of healthcare, and hospitals sustainability were identified as major contributors.peer-reviewe