Purpose. To analyze the current physician clinical oncological workforce within the CARICOM full member states with an\naim to make recommendations for building capacity. Methods. A questionnaire was prepared and emailed to professionals\nworking in oncology in 14 CARICOM full member countries. It was designed to identify the number of specialists providing\nhematology, medical oncology, and radiotherapy services. Results. Ten countries (71.4%) supplied information. Oncology services\nwere insufficient in the majority of countries. Hematology proved to be the most adequately staffed with six countries (60%) having\nthe recommended number of specialists. Medical oncology services were deficient in five countries (50%). Radiation oncology\nservices were the most limited with nine countries (90%) unable to provide the required quota of specialists. The majority of the\nworkforce consisted of nonnationals (55%). The remaining practitioners were nationals, and of these 50% were regionally trained.\nOncological care was primarily offered within the public sector. Conclusion.Oncological staffingwithin theCARICOMfullmember\nstates is insufficient to meet the demands of the current population. Encouraging training through locoregional or international\nprograms is key to obtaining the numbers required. Cancer registries will help provide data to influence public policy and improve\nthe oncological healthcare system.
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