Relationships and Engagement: The Benefits I Realized from SROA's New Administrators Workshop

By Jiné Maroney

This blog post is adapted from the article “My Experience Attending the New Administrators Workshop” published in Radiation Oncology News for Administrators, Vol 34, No. 2.

In 2023, I attended SROA’s Pre-Conference Workshop for New Administrators. I was seeking additional support and resources for my new administrative role. Leading a small radiation oncology department within a rural area creates unique barriers to information. As a recent member of SROA, I was thrilled by the workshop’s relevance to my needs.

Benefits of Attending

I have realized several benefits from attending the workshop:

1. Relationships: The most significant takeaway from the workshop was the relationships I built. I sought a sense of community and support, and that’s precisely what I found. The connections I made, even with those in different roles, fostered rich discussions and ongoing support. These relationships have since become a crucial resource for me.
2. Engagement: My involvement with SROA has extended beyond the workshop. I now actively participate in the membership committee, join monthly mentoring calls, and have established a mentor relationship with a senior administrator.
3. Annual Meeting: I will be presenting at the 2024 annual meeting and have applied to join the board.
4. SROA Connect: I am more comfortable seeking advice and sharing ideas on SROA Connect. Recognizing the personalities behind the names instills a sense of security when asking questions that might appear fundamental.

What I Learned During the Workshop

The first session targeted new administrators without a radiation therapy background. Although much of the content was familiar to me, it broadened my perspective by highlighting the experiences of administrators from diverse professional backgrounds. The workshop also delved into various aspects of reporting and vendor information. This knowledge equipped me with insights into alternative EMR systems that might benefit our cancer center.

I also learned about PLUVICTO, a radiopharmaceutical medication for treating prostate-specific membrane cancer. While implementing PLUVICTO at my center isn’t feasible, understanding it allows me to engage in meaningful conversations with colleagues who are using it.

In addition, I found SROA President Julie Abilheira’s presentation on leveraging a patient centered medical home (PCMH) model to introduce new roles like oncologic psychology in radiation oncology particularly inspiring. Supporting patients through psychological and social challenges is invaluable, and justifying such roles through the PCMH model presents a compelling case for enhancing patient care.

Long-Term Benefits

As radiation oncology administrators, our clinics’ operations are critical to patient lives. Having a network to consult for improving clinical workflows and programs is immensely reassuring. From large organizations to small ones, these resources have deepened my involvement in the radiation therapy community. Staying connected with these groups keeps me informed about developments beyond my small town.

The pre-conference workshop was a catalyst for my broader involvement. Without it, I might not have pursued further engagement. It also ignited my passion for continuous learning. After the annual meeting, I became a certified medical practice executive (CMPE). Being part of a professional association provides endless inspiration, helping me realize my potential and stay motivated.

I am grateful to be part of SROA and eager to support others in similar situations. Participating in the pre-conference workshop was a transformative experience, and I am committed to continue contributing to the community that has given me so much.

Jiné Maroney is a radiation oncology manager at a cancer center in upstate New York.

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