Galway hospital strengthens gynaecological cancer care with new appointment
University Hospital Galway has appointed Rhona Goodwin as its first Candidate Advanced Practice Radiation Therapist to enhance specialist oncology services. This pioneering role aims to refine patient care pathways and elevate support for women undergoing complex radiation treatments.
Source:
HSE — Health Service Executive
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⏱️ 2 min read
University Hospital Galway has reached a significant milestone in oncology care with the appointment of Rhona Goodwin as the facility's first Candidate Advanced Practice Radiation Therapist. Specialising in gynaecological radiation oncology, Goodwin brings over two decades of expertise to the role, having dedicated the last ten years to refining treatment pathways for patients facing cervical, endometrial, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. This initiative marks a major step in the hospital's commitment to innovation, as it becomes one of only five such specialist roles established nationally.
In her new capacity, Goodwin will focus on the four pillars of advanced practice: clinical delivery, leadership, education, and research. By fostering stronger rapport with patients and coordinating care from initial consultation through to follow-up, she aims to provide a more responsive, person-centred experience. Her work will also involve developing tailored educational programmes and utilising patient-reported outcome measures to ensure that aftercare management is both evidence-based and compassionate, ultimately improving the quality of life for those navigating their treatment journey.
Management at the hospital has lauded the appointment as a vital move towards more integrated care delivery. Joe Mc Manus, Radiation Therapy Services Manager, emphasised that the role empowers highly skilled therapists to work with greater autonomy, thereby optimising both service efficiency and clinical effectiveness. Regional Director Elaine Dobell further highlighted that this development aligns with the broader Sláintecare vision, creating a sustainable pathway for health professionals to lead service improvements and address the evolving needs of patients across the West and North West regions.
In her new capacity, Goodwin will focus on the four pillars of advanced practice: clinical delivery, leadership, education, and research. By fostering stronger rapport with patients and coordinating care from initial consultation through to follow-up, she aims to provide a more responsive, person-centred experience. Her work will also involve developing tailored educational programmes and utilising patient-reported outcome measures to ensure that aftercare management is both evidence-based and compassionate, ultimately improving the quality of life for those navigating their treatment journey.
Management at the hospital has lauded the appointment as a vital move towards more integrated care delivery. Joe Mc Manus, Radiation Therapy Services Manager, emphasised that the role empowers highly skilled therapists to work with greater autonomy, thereby optimising both service efficiency and clinical effectiveness. Regional Director Elaine Dobell further highlighted that this development aligns with the broader Sláintecare vision, creating a sustainable pathway for health professionals to lead service improvements and address the evolving needs of patients across the West and North West regions.
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