Speech and language therapists (SLTs) are the primary healthcare professionals for dysphagia management within Head and Neck Oncology treatment service. Radiation Therapists (RTs) have a role in supporting SLT dysphagia management through frontline daily monitoring of patient symptom development of dysphagia or dysphonia. The aim of the audit was to explore knowledge and self perceived competency of RT undergraduate students regarding the role of SLT in Radiation Oncology.
Within existing services and staffing, improved outcomes were recorded following on-the-job observation and teaching sessions from SLT. Improved knowledge of the role of SLT in radiation oncology will facilitate improved multidisciplinary working between SLTs and RTs in the future.