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- Aug 3, 2005
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What role will protons have in radiation therapy down the road?
Even if the scope of Protons broadens and it is proven to be beneficial for the majority of cancers, is it economically feasible within the next 20-30 years that this modality will extend beyond a handful of large centers into the community? Whether this happens is largely dependent on the development of smaller, more affordable delivery systems.....but given the technology involved, is that reasonable to expect in the foreseeable future?
Also, when considering residency programs, should the prospect of training on protons carry any weight? As a graduate of a program with protons, could it later serve you as an advantage?
Along the same lines, given the limited insight of a medical student, is exposure to the latest technology and treatment approaches such as brachy (LDR/HDR) and STS during residency in fact overrated? Please correct me if I am wrong, but it seems to me that as a resident, "the people" you work with matter more because what you fundamentally want out of your residency is to learn about principles of treatment, medical physics, and the pathophysiology of the various human malignancies, and that given a strong foundation in these areas, the specifics of different technologies and different treatment approaches can be picked up down the road. Thoughts?
Practically speaking, however, can having limited exposure to certain technology and treatment approaches impede your job marketability out of residency?
Even if the scope of Protons broadens and it is proven to be beneficial for the majority of cancers, is it economically feasible within the next 20-30 years that this modality will extend beyond a handful of large centers into the community? Whether this happens is largely dependent on the development of smaller, more affordable delivery systems.....but given the technology involved, is that reasonable to expect in the foreseeable future?
Also, when considering residency programs, should the prospect of training on protons carry any weight? As a graduate of a program with protons, could it later serve you as an advantage?
Along the same lines, given the limited insight of a medical student, is exposure to the latest technology and treatment approaches such as brachy (LDR/HDR) and STS during residency in fact overrated? Please correct me if I am wrong, but it seems to me that as a resident, "the people" you work with matter more because what you fundamentally want out of your residency is to learn about principles of treatment, medical physics, and the pathophysiology of the various human malignancies, and that given a strong foundation in these areas, the specifics of different technologies and different treatment approaches can be picked up down the road. Thoughts?
Practically speaking, however, can having limited exposure to certain technology and treatment approaches impede your job marketability out of residency?