Background Oncology is a dynamic specialty with rapidly-evolving treatment options and associated complications. A core aspect of palliative care involves supporting oncology patients and their loved ones whilst keeping up-to-date with the latest developments. In the United Kingdom (UK), oncology-focused study days for palliative medicine doctors are rare. We developed a national oncology study day for UK palliative medicine trainees.

Method The national virtual oncology study day for palliative medicine doctors was developed over three years (2020–2023). An oncology registrar and two palliative medicine registrars co-designed each study day by mapping topics to the Palliative Medicine curriculum and liaising with oncology consultants, who delivered the sessions virtually. Feedback was reviewed and the course adapted annually. The third iteration was promoted UK-wide to palliative medicine trainees and specialty doctors.

Results In 2020, 30 palliative medicine trainees from London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex (London/KSS) attended. 96% (25/26 attendees) felt they would benefit from an annual study day to ensure broad contemporary topic coverage. In 2021, the programme was adapted to cover other topics. 34 London/KSS trainees attended. 100% (18/18 attendees) would recommend the study day to colleagues and 95% (17/18) would attend again.

In 2023, 80 doctors attended from across the UK. 97% (55/57 attendees) would recommend the study day and would attend again. Feedback was universally positive. Attendees valued the variety and quality of talks, knowledgeable speakers and opportunity to discuss complexities with specialists.

Conclusion Palliative medicine doctors care for patients with a range of oncological diagnoses. Our national programme has proven itself to be successful and valued. Delegates appreciated discussing complex oncology topics and real-world experiences with subject-matter experts. The virtual format enabled speakers and attendees to join from across the country and future iterations will be advertised more broadly to improve equity of access.