Radiation therapists

Radiation therapists treat cancer in patients by administering radiation to cancer cells. Radiation therapists should have a bachelor's degrees in radiation therapy.

The radiation therapist is responsible for monitoring the condition of the patient and is required to assess if changes to the treatment plan are required. The radiation therapist is responsible for quality assurance of the radiation treatment. This involves acquiring and recording all parameters needed to deliver the treatment accurately. The radiation therapist ensures that the treatment set-up is correctly administered. The radiation therapist takes imaging studies of the targeted treatment area and reproduces the patient positioning and plan parameters daily.The radiation therapist is responsible for the accuracy of the treatment and uses his/her judgment to ensure quality with regard to all aspects of treatment delivery.

Students in radiation therapy programs learn about treatment methods for cancer patients using x-rays and other technology. Students learn to calculate doses and operate equipment in a safe manner. They typically gain hands-on experience with the machinery used in radiation therapy through an internship in a healthcare facility. This major involves a strong understanding of science, mathematics and psychology. Students are trained to work directly with patients, which includes learning to evaluate a treatment plan's success, and to communicate effectively with patients and medical staff.

Students in radiation therapy programs take a combination of lecture-based and experience-based courses, such as those in the following topics:

·         Radiation oncology

·         Basic dosimetry

·         Quality assurance

·         Ethical issues in radiation therapy

·         Radiation physics

·         Sectional anatomy

·         Safety in radiation therapy

Finally; Radiation therapists should have good communication and organization skills in order to interact with patients and work successfully with radiation oncologists, technicians and other medical professionals. They must be able to perform medical imaging procedures, including x-rays and CT scans. Because they are often standing for long hours, radiation therapists should be in good physical health.