A large proportion of radiation oncology appointments can be completed using telephone/telehealth, with a relatively small number of these requiring subsequent face-to-face appointments.

Patients with tumour subsites that were more easily surveilled radiologically or biochemically, rather than direct physical examination, were less likely to require subsequent face-to-face consultations following telephone/telehealth consults. 

This study adds to the global experience of radiation oncology departments providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic. At present, this is the only identifiable study during the pandemic of its kind. 

In the post-pandemic era, telephone/telehealth consultations may have a role in the provision of radiation oncology services in Australia.  However, careful patient selection and accounting for multiple variables would be needed to ensure effective and safe healthcare is provided.