Department Of Veterans Affairs
VA Handbook 7610 (277)
Washington, DC 20420
June, 2006
1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This document outlines space planning criteria for VA Handbook 7610 Chapter 277:
Radiation Therapy Service. It applies to all medical facilities at the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA).
2. DEFINITIONS
A. Block / Mold Room: Dedicated area in which blocks are created for the purpose of
shielding areas that need to be spared from treatment. These are then filled with a
molten alloy to form the needed shielding for the patient as designed by the Radiation
Oncologist. In addition, stints, bite blocks, bolus and other specialized devices are
generated in this area. On a case-by-case basis, depending on the linear accelerator
used, a block-mold room is not always required.
B. CT Simulation: CT Simulators are in the process of overtaking the conventional
simulator for the treatment simulation/planning process. The CT-Simulator (CT-sim)
provides the same type of images, described in the CT section of Chapter 276-
Radiology while the patient is in the treatment position. This allows for immediate
localization of treatment volume and subsequent planning. Using a CT-sim
combines both conventional simulation and the planning CT scan. Since tumor
localization and planning can be done in "real time" while the patient is present, It can
also eliminate second simulations after the planning process is completed.
C. Concept of Operations: A user-developed guide to the functional operation of the VA
healthcare facility. It defines the function of the facility and the scope of medical
services to be provided in the new or remodeled space.
D. Input Data Statement: A set of questions designed to elicit information about the
healthcare project in order to create a Program for Design (PFD) based on the criteria
parameters set forth in this document. Input Data Statements could be Mission
related, based in the project's Concept of Operations; and Workload or Staffing
related, based on projections and data provided by the VHA or the VISN about the
estimated model of operation. This information is processed through mathematical
and logical operations in VA-SEPS.
E. Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): IMRT is one of the most advanced
external beam radiation technology available for radiation treatment. This therapy
varies the shape and intensity of the radiation beam across the treatment area
minimizing damage to surrounding normal cell structures. IMRT uses the same
medical linear accelerators that deliver x-ray beams in conventional Radiation
Therapy, employing multi-leaf collimators, (computer-controlled devices) to conform
the radiation beam to the shape of the tumor from any angle, and deliver higher or
lower radiation doses to protect adjacent tissue.
F. Net-to-department gross factor (NTDG): A factor that when multiplied by the
programmed Net Square Foot (NSF) area, determines the Departmental Gross
Radiation Therapy Service (Chapter 277): Page 2 of 17
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