Adapting to the Virtual World: An Analysis of Remote Work Policies in Academic Radiation Oncology

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a shift from traditional work environments to working from home (WFH). The specific benefits and challenges of WFH in radiation oncology (RO) are currently unknown. To address this gap in knowledge, a survey-based study was conducted to assess WFH policies and perceptions of their impact, as well as explore the role of departmental gender composition in remote work policies. Materials and Methods: Faculty and residents were randomly selected from the 92 American College of Graduate Medical Education-accredited RO residency programs. Descriptive statistics were generated for responses overall and separately among faculty and residents for demographic responses. They were also generated for responses relating to remote policy among departments with at least one-third female faculty/residents and those with less than one-third female faculty/residents. Associations between responses and groups were assessed using chi-square or Fisher exact tests for categorical responses and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests for numerical responses. Results: Although 58.6% of faculty and 59.1% of residents perceived a negative or somewhat negative impact of WFH on patient satisfaction, the majority (> 51%) had positive perceptions of impact on all other measured outcomes, including their time with children, time with partner, time with other family members, and their personal wellness. Additionally, the current study revealed that 93.4% (n = 57) of departments comprised of more than one-third women had WFH policies in place, while only 84.2% (n = 64) of departments comprised of fewer than one-third female members had such policies. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of diverse input from all genders as departments implement WFH policies. Further research should explore the durability of changes in workplace flexibility and how they may impact gender disparities within RO.