RTi3 2023 Innovate Keynote
Description
MR RT integrated practice in Alberta has been in development since 2017. Driven by technological innovation and the building of a new cancer centre, the Alberta experience has been a journey of challenging interdisciplinary collaboration and accelerated learning, ambitious organizational planning, and dynamic fluctuations in expectations. We began MR RT program development to support the installation of a home-grown MR linear accelerator in Edmonton AB and expanded our efforts to include the installation of MR RT units in Calgary where arguably, one of the largest MR RT departments in North America will reside when open in 2024.
Our story is a tale of two Radiation Therapy departments and the stakeholders working to come together under a provincial program to build a certification pathway, clinical practice and education supports, and a sustainable future in MR RT for the benefit of our patients. Please join me to talk about how we started, where we are now, and where we aspire to be in future.
Learning Objectives
- Learn about MR integrated RT regulations and practice certification in Alberta
- Learn how stakeholders, partnerships, and operational development influenced the emergence of MR RT in Alberta
ABOUT GILLIAN
Gillian Graham has proudly held the title of Radiation Therapist for the last 28 years. Originally from Winnipeg, she trained and worked at the Manitoba Cancer Foundation before moving to Calgary, AB in 1998.
Over her career, she has performed various roles working in Treatment Simulation, Treatment Planning, and Treatment delivery. For the last 10 years, Gillian has shifted her focus from front line expert to clinical leadership and has concentrated on growing skills in education and professional practice leadership.
Ongoing curiosity, education, and professional growth are areas that continue to inspire Gillian. In 2017, she graduated from the Masters of Health Leadership program at Royal Roads University with the support of her family and professional mentors.
When not working with an amazing Cancer Care Alberta team, Gillian loves travel, singing, and being outside in the garden with her two lovely daughters and her husband and best friend, Darren.