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Defining an Undergraduate Radiation Oncology Microclerkship Using the Delphi Method
Julia Willcox1, Austin T Gregg2, Steve Braunstein3
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts.
Practical Radiation Oncology
|December 29, 2024
Summary
This study established a consensus for a 3-5 day radiation oncology (RO) microclerkship for third-year medical students. This brief observership aims to increase exposure to RO during undergraduate medical education.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Many US medical students lack formal radiation oncology (RO) exposure.
- Brief observerships, termed microclerkships (<1 week), offer a potential solution.
Purpose of the Study:
- Establish expert consensus on the optimal duration, curriculum, target audience, and goals/objectives for an RO microclerkship.
- Develop a framework to increase medical student exposure to RO.
Main Methods:
- A needs assessment was distributed to medical student clerkship directors.
- A Delphi process involving 7 medical education experts refined goals, objectives, and curricular items through iterative surveys.
- Consensus was defined as 83% agreement.
Main Results:
- Third-year medical students and a 3-5 day duration were identified as ideal.
- Key goals include understanding RO's role, mechanisms, and integration into patient care.
- Objectives involve patient consults, simulations, and observing treatment planning.
Conclusions:
- A consensus framework for RO microclerkships was established.
- Integrating this 3-5 day program into curricula can enhance undergraduate RO exposure.
