Aim:
To develop an e-learning module for the checking and verification of prescriptions for oral anti-cancer therapies (OACT).

Background:
OACT, are an increasing therapy option for cancer.
OACT are recognised as requiring specialised practices to ensure correct and safe use.
With the move from the tertiary to regional and primary care, there is an increasing number of non-oncology trained pharmacist involved in the care of patients taking OACT.

Method:
A search was undertaken to identify standards, guidelines or research around the dispensing and verification of cancer therapies focussing on oral agents.
A step-wise process was developed for use in the module.
After development the module was pilot-tested.
Feedback from the pilot was used to finalise the module.

Results:
A seven step process was identified:
Prescription, Protocol, Patient, Administration, Calculations, Blood results, Sign off.

28 pharmacists completed the pilot, ranging from pharmacy interns to experienced oncology pharmacists and from regional and metropolitan hospital settings.

All respondents reported increased confidence in the process after completion of the module.

90% of respondents reported an increase in both their understanding of the risks and the steps involved in the verification of an OACT prescription.
97% agreed the module explained why OACT prescriptions require specific processes.
76% agreed that the module increased their understanding of the verification steps.

The final module was exported into a format that can be used in a number of ways, including web-site, CD or USB or email link.

Discussion:
The e-learning module developed is able to be utilised in most settings where OACT are dispensed.
This module helps pharmacists with the skills, processes, and confidence for dispensing of OACT irrespective of environment and exposure.

The use of e-learning allows standard training to be delivered in a variety of environments.