International virtual radiation therapy professional development: Reflections on a twinning collaboration between a low/middle and high income country

Abstract

In response to the documented challenges to providing adequate radiotherapy services to its population, the Ethiopian government has embarked on a plan to augment such services. In tandem with the need for the required equipment is the need for qualified staff for its safe operation. Twinning collaborations between low (LIC) and high income countries (HIC) have been proven effective for improving health care services and outcomes. In this short communication, organizers of a virtual professional development program for radiation therapy staff, from Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (Ethiopia, LIC) and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (Canada, HIC) reflect on the experience and suggest ideas for increasing value and impact.

Keywords

• Radiation therapy
• Virtual education
• Capacity building
• Twinning collaborations