Investigation of standardized training of radiation oncology residents for gynaecological tumours in China

BACKGROUND: Radiotherapy standardized training (ST) has been conducted for 7 years in China. This investigation evaluated the difficulties of and need for ST of radiation oncology residents (RORs) for gynaecological tumours (GYN) in China. METHODS: An anonymous online survey was conducted on the “Questionnaire Star” platform. The questionnaire contained 30 questions, including the basic information of the students, their knowledge of radiotherapy theory, training on GYN, the difficulties and needs they faced, and possible solutions. RESULTS: A total of 469 valid questionnaires were collected, resulting in a valid response rate of 85.3%. During the ST, only 58–60% of RORs received training in GYN, with a median clinical rotation time of 2–3 months. Among the RORs surveyed, 50.1% knew the physical characteristics of brachytherapy (BRT), and 49.2% could choose the appropriate BRT for patients. At the end of ST, 75.3% were able to complete the target delineation in GYN independently, and 56% were able to complete the BRT operation independently. The scarcity of GYN patients, insufficient teaching awareness of superior doctors, and lack of interest are the main reasons why ST cannot meet the standard. CONCLUSION: In China, the ST of RORs in GYN should be strengthened, the teaching awareness of specialist trainers should be increased, and the curriculum should be optimized, especially the curriculum for specialist operation and a strict assessment system.