Developing Radiotherapy services in Iraq

A 5 year partnership between Sheffield Hallam University and the Iraq Ministry of Health was established to provide education and development for healthcare professionals; including Radiation Therapy Physicists and Technicians (Radiographers) and Doctors. Supported by the UK Government, the Iraqi Ministry of Health requested the planning and delivery of courses to develop their existing staff and train new practitioners to expand their Radiotherapy service following significant investment in equipment and infrastructure. Reported here are the initial stages of the project: The first cohort of 6 students arrived in August 2012 followed by a 2nd in February 2013. All worked in some aspect of healthcare with a first degree (or higher) in Physics. A minimum of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) level 4 in English language ability was required. Many were currently working as Radiotherapy Physicists but students had mixed levels of clinical experience: some being completely new to Radiotherapy. The overall programme of study was divided into 2 parts. The 1st was designed to enable students to develop their English language skills to a minimum of IELTS level 5; whilst also studying fundamental aspects of Radiotherapy, in preparation for a subsequent CPD Radiation Therapy Physics course (Part 2). Course aims: Facilitate the improvement of cancer care in Iraq and help improve radiation safety by increasing the use of evidence based practice Give students opportunities to use, develop and share their subject/profession specific knowledge and skills Develop language for presentation and group discussion Develop awareness of the classroom culture in UK Higher Education Institutions