COVID-19 and information and communication technology in radiation oncology: A new paradigm

Table 2 Areas to target for improvement and improvements specific to radiation oncology

Areas to target for improvement
Specific agenda only for remote consultations that is separate from face-to-face consultations
Ensure that video-assisted consultations include automatic dialling, headphones, a camera and a microphone
Implementation of electronic prescriptions
Ability to directly order complementary tests telematically
Possibility of sending notifications and reminders to the patient's mobile phone
Health care education and promotion directly from primary care
Increased digital literacy in the general population
Computer security measures
Provision of technology in rural areas: Mobile coverage, access to devices, etc
Remote consultations considered as a complement to face-to-face visits
Emotional support for the patient, family involvement, motivation and commitment
Provide legal safeguards for these tools
Improvements specific to radiation oncology
Regulation of remote work (“work from home”) options in the radiation oncology. For example, it would be feasible to work from home one day each week to perform remote contouring or other work that does not require a physical presence. Working from home should be considered a natural extension of our work, although potential disadvantages must be considered: Failure to disconnect from work, lack of clarity regarding work organization, and difficulties in the work-life balance
To apply Big Data in our work, we need appropriate electronic medical records and data reporting formats that provide us with feedback on our results, which can then be used to improve clinical care