Non-oncologist physician knowledge of radiation therapy at an urban community hospital.

10534 Background: Appropriate referral for radiation therapy (RT) is crucial for cancer care. Previous work suggests that many non-radiation oncologists who care for cancer patients are uncomfortable referring for RT. We surveyed physicians in a community hospital in Bronx, New York to assess their training in RT and understanding of RT. Methods: Invitations to complete an online questionnaire were sent to all faculty and resident physicians at St. Barnabas Hospital. The questionnaire asked about previous training in oncology, RT knowledge self-rating and an objective knowledge assessment of RT indications and effectiveness. Statistical analysis used Pearson chi-square and Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and Student’s t-test and ANOVA for interval variables. Results: 247 participants received the invitation email, and 87 responded (35% response rate). Among responders, 19 were attending physicians (22%) and 66 (76%) were residents (2 failed to disclose). 51 respondents (59%) were from Internal Medicine (IM) and 20 (24%) from Emergency Medicine. 72% of respondents reported caring for > 5 cancer patients in the past month, but 45% (37% of IM respondents) never refer patients for RT. 71% of respondents stated they received no formal radiation oncology training in medical school, and 47% reported no oncology training at all. Pluralities believed themselves to be “somewhat knowledgeable” about RT indications (49%), benefits (53%), and side effects (55%). Objective assessment mean score was 6.2/12 (median 7) for all respondents. IM respondents scored higher than others (mean 7.7 vs 3.5; p < 0.001), but only 28% of IM respondents (0% of others) scored 10/12 or higher. Scores did not differ between attending and resident physicians (p = 0.75), resident PGY level (p = 0.43), or receiving oncology training in medical school (p = 0.54). Factors cited by > 50% as affecting RT referral decisions either “somewhat” or “a lot” were: type of cancer, patient wishes, family wishes, poor functional status, and life expectancy. Conclusions: Many physicians are unaware of RT effectiveness or indications, which may affect referral patterns. Previous oncology training was not associated with higher knowledge scores.