Breast Cancer Radiotherapy
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 2023/24
| Indicative price for stand-alone module |
Home student: £830 EU / International students: £830 - this is part-time study and therefore cannot provide sponsorship for Tier 4. |
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| How to apply |
To apply for a self-funded place, please complete and return the application form below: To apply for a Workforce Development / Workforce Transformation funding WDF/WTF funded place, please complete and return the relevant application form below: Further information and Workforce Development Funding / CPD Funding online application form |
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Entry requirements
- Relevant professional qualification
- Relevant work experience: must have worked, or be currently working with patients that have been diagnosed with breast cancer
- Reliable internet connection
- If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each skill area
The above must be evidenced in your application form
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Attendance
Delivery Method:
This module is delivered via distance learning
View our statement on notional study hours »
Provisional timetable
Module sites open for induction Monday 18th September 2023
Module starts Monday 25th September 2023
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Assessment
The summative assessment task (worth 100% of the module mark) requires you to make a proposal for some aspect of a change to the current service provided for breast cancer patients and related specifically to the service provided within your own institution.
- Written Report
Successful completion of this module will earn you 15 level 7 credits
Further details
For further information please contact the module leader Heather Drury-Smith - h.drury-smith@shu.ac.uk or contact the student experience team:
Module lead: Heather Drury-Smith h.drury-smith@shu.ac.uk