Work

Exploring staff recruitment and retention in radiation therapy: global insights from an ESTRO RTT workshop

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Reduced recruitment and retention of radiation therapists (RTTs) have a significant impact on our profession and the provision of care to radiotherapy patients. The European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) hosted an online workshop of RTTs to better understand the factors influencing this global professional issue.This workshop included 19 RTTs participants, with diversity in educational background, years of professional experience, and primary professional role. Following smaller breakout group allocations, attendees participated in facilitated discussions to explore factors relating to professional motivation, early career experiences, career progression and continuous education opportunities, and overall job satisfaction. A second workshop shifted towards a solution driven approach, where strategies to overcome professional challenges impacting recruitment and retention were identified.There was strong group alignment regarding individual motivation to pursue a radiotherapy career. Participants collectively shared a desire to work in a technologically driven, highly specialised field to provide care and make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Whilst these principles persisted over time, new motivators also emerged; shifting from an individual to a broader team focus. How RTTs, as a profession, meet and exceed these primary and evolving motivators is critical to the recruitment and retention issues faced globally. To support early career professionals, strategies identified included providing a heightened sense of belonging for students on placement combined with improved graduate onboarding. Once in employment, equal opportunity to funding for research and education, and autonomy to leadership to manage departmental rosters allowing for protected time from clinical duties should be provided.

Source: Technical Innovations & Patient Support in Radiation Oncology

DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2026.100412

Authors: Sophie Perryck, Nigel Anderson, Philipp Scherer, Elizabeth Forde

Institutions: University Hospital Zurich, Icon (Australia), Monash University, Trinity College Dublin, St. James's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Advances in Oncology and Radiotherapy

Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,410