Introduction to the ESTRO European Qualifications Framework (EQF) 7 and 8: Benchmarking Radiation Therapist (RTT) advanced education

Abstract

Innovations in radiotherapy practice continue to develop and expand. With this comes a requirement for suitably educated Radiation TherapisTs (RTTs) to expand their scope of practice and work at advanced levels within radiotherapy departments. This paper introduces the ESTRO European Qualifications Framework (EQF) 7 and 8 benchmarking document, where the distinction between levels 7 and 8 is discussed. It details the evolution of the profession of RTT from graduate to extended and advanced roles. As professionals within the radiation oncology team, this advancement brings with it the necessity for appropriate education at EQF levels 7 and 8 in order to ensure the knowledge base, critical analysis skills and safe practice of RTTs in such roles and to drive the profession forward for the future. Keywords: Education, Advanced practice, Benchmarking