Radiation oncology peer review in Australia and New Zealand

Stephen Chin, Michelle Or, Wee Loon Ong, Jeremy Millar, Madhavi Chilkuri, Shalini Vinod

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleResearchpeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Peer review is a part of high quality care within radiation oncology, designed to achieve the best outcomes for patients. We discuss the importance of and evidence for peer review in clinical practice. The Royal Australia and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) has evolved a Peer Review Assessment Tool (PRAT) since 1999. We report the results of a RANZCR faculty survey conducted in radiation oncology facilities across Australia and New Zealand to guide the 2019 PRAT revision process, and discuss the development and implementation of the 2019 PRAT. Peer-review processes are now mandated as a component of Australian and International Quality Standards. Several practical recommendations might address challenges for effective implementation of peer review process in routine clinical practice. This includes prioritising tumour sites and treatment techniques for peer review within the time and resources constraints of each institution, improving resource allocation, ensuring optimal timing and duration for peer review meetings, and adopting multi-centre virtual peer review meeting where necessary.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)258-266
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
Volume66
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2022

Keywords

  • feedback
  • peer review
  • quality improvement
  • radiation oncology
  • radiotherapy

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