One of the key functions of the Radiotherapy Network is to reduce variation in quality by adopting standardised best practice protocols. Protocols are an agreed framework outlining the care that will be provided to patients in designated areas of practice.
Current protocols
Protocols on this website have been ratified by the West Midlands Cancer Alliance Radiotherapy Expert Advisory Group.
Please note: The date of the last review is the date of ratification by the Radiotherapy Expert Advisory Group and due dates for the next review are found in the footer of each page, as well as on the front page.
Current status/review schedule
The Radiotherapy Network maintains a planned schedule for the review of protocols, where protocols are reviewed no later than 2-3 years after the previous ratification.
If the RCR publishes new guidance on dose and fractionation, this will also trigger a review.
Change requests
In addition, to the scheduled review of documents, it is possible for any radiotherapy stakeholder in the West Midlands to request a review at any time prior to the planned review, by completing a change request proforma where they believe this is warranted e.g. change in national commissioning policy or the outcomes of clinical trials.
However, a change request should follow also on from where clinicians have used three or more concessions.
A copy of the current change request can be found here:
Protocol development, review and implementation monitoring: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
The SOP can be found here:
If you are unsure about the status of a protocol, please ask the West Midlands Radiotherapy Network team at WestMidlandsRadiotherapyNetwork@uhcw.nhs.uk
West Midlands Radiotherapy Network image guidance
We have agreed pre-treatment and on-treatment image guidance:
West Midlands Radiotherapy Network ad hoc referral Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
We have agreed an inter-provider ad hoc referral SOP for brachytherapy patients to be treated by other providers:
We have agreed an inter-provider ad hoc referral SOP for patients to take part in clinical trials at other providers: