Hutton, N, Hutton, D, Oliver, lauren, Butler, C, Cummings, T, Alves, E, McKie, L and Kirby, Michael 
ORCID: 0000-0001-9765-5641
(2023)
A newly designed virtual tour of a Radiotherapy Department for improving patient experience initial staff qualitative evaluation.
[Poster]
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Abstract
Abstract: Introduction More informed patients are likely to be more relaxed and less anxious on their cancer journey; evidence suggests knowing practical aspects of attending for radiotherapy and what to expect are very important(1-4). Departmental open evenings providing greater information support, help reduce anxiety and distress levels(5-6). More recently, virtual methods have been used – which is our approach here; by developing a digital virtual tour by local level 3 computer science students, as part of the Innovation Project for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Liverpool (CCCL). Initial design and evaluation with patients have been undertaken(7). Knowing that Therapeutic Radiographers (TRs) are the natural eyes and ears for capturing the patient voice, we here report the initial evaluation from TR focus groups conducted at CCCL. Method Evaluation by patients used a mixed-methods survey(7). Control (n=9) and intervention (n=14) groups were established – the latter completing the survey after watching the virtual tour. Simultaneously, TR focus groups were conducted (n=17) using open-ended questions for evaluation. Results Qualitative results from TRs covered a wide range of evaluative comments and suggestions for improvement and development. All (100%) felt the virtual tour was a positive addition to the patient’s journey. Some commented it provided a good alternative to in-person open evenings, with enough information delivered at a good pace. The radiographer avatar was in uniform and spoke with a regional accent – both aspects were commented as being usefully informative, with a style and approach considered highly personable. Highlighting available facilities (like the beverage bar) and the inside of the treatment room were particularly noted in allowing patients to know exactly what to expect and help remove fear of the unknown. Improvements were suggested, to further expand the ‘reach’ of the virtual tour – e.g. to highlight transport, phlebotomy and pharmacy services; or link to Macmillan and Chemotherapy suites; and extend into further aspects such as pre-treatment and even how radiotherapy works. Conclusion The responses from this initial evaluation with TRs, who are at the frontline of providing care for radiotherapy patients, has been highly positive – complementing patient responses which, for example, showed reductions in anxiety and improvements in confidence and knowledge in practical matters (such as queue and changing room systems), together with knowing better what to expect through to the treatment room. Its introduction can now be the foundation for providing further key information prior to treatment start, alleviating anxiety and improving the patient experience still further.
| Item Type: | Poster |
|---|---|
| Divisions: | Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health > School of Health Sciences |
| Depositing User: | Symplectic Admin |
| Date Deposited: | 31 Mar 2023 07:29 |
| Last Modified: | 31 Mar 2023 07:29 |
| URI: | https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3169370 |
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