The Need for a Transitional Program for Internationally Educated Radiation Therapists

Abstract

Internationally educated radiation therapists (IERT) coming to practice their profession in the province of Ontario do not have access to a transitional program as do their counterparts, the internationally educated diagnostic radiographers (IEDR). This study examines whether there is a need for such a program for IERTs.

A process of triangulation - involving surveys, interviews, classroom observation and consultation - was used to identify and compare the specific needs of these two professional groups, and to evaluate how well the existing program meets the specific needs of IEDRs. Based on those findings, on future projections of supply and demand for external recruits within the province of Ontario, and on other considerations, a conclusion is drawn as to whether a transitional program should be made available for IERTs.

The specific needs of the two professional groups, IERTs and IEDRs were found to be quite similar. While the transitional program available to IEDRs meets their specific needs reasonably well, there remains room for improvement.

Although both the supply and the demand for IERTs have declined, there is a need and strong support for a transitional program for them. With some modifications from the current program available to IEDRs, a transitional program would serve the needs of IERTs reasonably well and should be made available to them.