A Pan-Canadian Survey of Peer Review Practices in Radiation Oncology

Publication date: Available online 4 February 2016
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Amanda Caissie, Julie Rouette, Paul Jugpal, Carol-Anne Davis, Helmut Hollenhorst, Jennifer O'Donnell, Gunita Mitera, Michael D. Brundage
PurposePeer review (PR) of treatment plans has been recognized internationally as a key component of quality care in radiation oncology programs (ROPs). We conducted a survey of Canadian ROPs to describe current PR practices and identify barriers/facilitators to PR optimization.Methods and MaterialsA 42-item e-survey was sent to all Canadian ROPs (n=44). Survey development was guided by expert consensus, literature review, and existing guidelines. One multi-disciplinary response per ROP was requested.ResultsResponse rate was 100.0% (44/44). All ROPs (100.0%) reported conducting some PR and rated its importance as 7/10 or higher (10=extremely important). Half of ROPs (52.3%) peer-reviewed >80% of curative treatment plans. Most ROPs reported performing PR "always/almost always" pre-treatment (38.6%) or before 25% of radiotherapy delivery (52.3%). ROPs reported recommending major plans changes in <5% of plans (88.6%) and documenting findings in the medical record (58.1%). Barriers to PR were radiation oncologist availability (34.1%) and time constraints (27.3%). Facilitators included development of PR standards (97.7%) and education/support (90.9%).ConclusionsROPs perceive PR as highly important, but substantial variation in the extent, timing and documentation of PR exists. The understanding of current PR activities, barriers, and facilitators will inform the development of initiatives to optimize PR in radiation oncology.



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