Abstract

Purpose

            Radiotherapy is a key cancer treatment modality that will continually be required with the predicted rise in cancer incidence. However, recent workforce projections predict a shortage of Canadian Medical Graduate-trained radiation oncologists. Exposure to radiation oncology in medical school curricula is limited, and thus mentorship and research opportunities like the Dr. Pamela Catton Summer Studentship program attempt to bridge this gap and stimulate interest in the specialty. In 2021, the studentship was redesigned as virtual research mentorship and case-based discussions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explores the impact of COVID-19 on the studentship, the students’ perceptions of the program, and its impact on students’ medical training and career choice.

 

Materials and Methods

            Fifteen studentship completion essays during 2021-2022 were obtained from the CARO Education Committee and anonymized. Thematic analysis was performed to interpret the essays systematically with Nvivo. Two independent reviewers coded the essays. Themes and sub-themes were established by identifying connections between coded excerpts. Consensus was achieved through multiple rounds of discussion and iteratively reviewing each theme theme and sub-theme with respect to the coded excerpts. Representative quotes were used to illustrate the themes and sub-themes.

 

Results

            The themes confirmed the studentship was feasible during the pandemic. Perceived benefits of the program included mentorship and networking opportunities; gaining practical and fundamental knowledge in radiation oncology; developing clinical and research skills; and creating positive attitudes towards radiation oncology and the humanistic aspect of the field. The studentship supported medical specialty selection by helping define student values, shaping perceptions of the specialty characteristics, and promoting self-reflection upon students’ personal needs.

 

Conclusions

            This study informs future iterations of the studentship to promote radiation oncology in Canadian medical school curricula. It serves as a model for studentships in other specialties that have limited exposure and similar challenges with medical student recruitment.