Introduction

The aim of this module is to provide you with specialist knowledge relevant to the planning and delivery of radiotherapy for early stage breast cancer and to allow you to consider changes to service delivery and/or care within your work remit to enhance the radiotherapy pathway for patients with breast cancer. The module is designed around an intrapreneurial pedagogy to enhance the development of intrapreneurial skills within the context of the radiotherapy patient pathway. You will be encouraged to identify current gaps in service delivery for patients with breast cancer and critically review the research evidence on innovative techniques or care that could bridge any gaps and positively impact patient care.

Who the module is aimed at 

For individuals working with patients diagnosed with breast cancer. 

What you will learn.

This module will be delivered in distance learning mode whereby you are encouraged to develop as autonomous learners through self-directed study and by adopting an enquiry-based approach to this topic area. The module is separated into three sections of study. Each section covers a range of topics and subject to change based upon current research and guidance in early stage breast cancer.

Section 1 Pre-Treatment Introduction to early breast cancer including a brief over view of epidemiology, aetiology, and treatment paradigms. Imaging of the breast for radiotherapy planning Target volume definition including outlining the breast and lymph nodes

Section 2 Radiotherapy Treatment Delivery Radiotherapy techniques for primary and boost treatments Methods for on-treatment verification Role of new techniques and current trials

Section 3 Care of the Breast Cancer Patient Preparation of the patient for treatment, and care while on treatment Side effects of treatment Follow up and long term care

Benefits of taking the module to the individual, the organisation and the patient.

This module will allow you to consider changes to service delivery within your work remit that would enhance the radiotherapy pathway for patients with breast cancer.

General areas covered 

• Basic introduction to breast cancer and the breast cancer care pathway
• Technical delivery of radiotherapy including current issues, challenges and trials.
• Care of the patient undergoing breast cancer radiotherapy

Skills gained for the workplace

You will gain understanding of current clinical trials in the field of breast cancer irradiation, and develop skills in writing a business case for service improvement.

Unique or interesting features 

There will be webinars from experts in specific radiotherapy techniques or patient care for participants to enhance skills and knowledge.

Professional recognition

Accredited by Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR).

To study this distance learning module you will require access to a computer with:

• a reliable internet connection
• Microsoft or Apple Mac Supported Office Software
• the current version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox

Fees and Funding for 2024/25

Further details

For further information please contact the module leader Heather Drury-Smith - h.drury-smith@shu.ac.uk

Module lead: Heather Drury-Smith h.drury-smith@shu.ac.uk

Related course(s)

• MSc Advanced Clinical Practice Radiotherapy and Oncology
• MSc Enhanced Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice
• MSc Radiotherapy Planning Practice