Radiation is used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy to combat various forms of cancer. Serving as an integral part of the cancer-treatment team, the radiation therapist administers radiation to patients as treatment for the disease. Radiation therapists obtain specialized training in administering radiation, and most states require therapists to become licensed.
Job Responsibilities of a Radiation Therapist
The primary responsibility of the radiation therapist is to administer the radiation treatments as prescribed in the patient's treatment plan following set standards and practices. The therapist also is responsible for maintaining the radiation equipment, particularly the linear accelerator which is the machine that projects the X-rays used to kill the cancer cells. Therapists also maintain patient records and review records with other oncologist team members. The therapist is usually the person who explains the treatment to the patient.
Radiation Therapy Process
The radiation therapist first uses a computer tomography, or CT, scan to locate the cancer and then positions the linear accelerator to target the specific area. Then, the therapist works with the radiation oncologist and dosimetrist to create the treatment plan. During treatment, the radiation therapist positions the patient, administers the radiation and monitors the patient's condition
Training and Education
There are two common education tracks to become a radiation therapist. Students might pursue an associate or bachelor degree in radiation therapy. Or they may complete a degree in radiography followed by a certificate program in radiation therapy. Students study physiology, physics, anatomy and research methods in addition to radiation therapy practices, safety and theories. Students should consider completing a program accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Certification and Licensure
Moe than half of the U.S. states require radiation therapists to be licensed. While each state has its own requirements set by the state licensing board, many require therapists to pass the certification examination administered by the ARRT. Even if the state does not require ARRT certification, many employers prefer it, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Continuing Education and Career Advancement
Continuing education is important for radiation therapists to stay on top of changing theories, practices and technology. To maintain ARRT certification, radiation therapists must complete 24 credits of related coursework every two years. Many radiation therapists who maintain certification move into management positions with greater responsibility. Some continue their education and become dosimetrists.
Employment Opportunities and Outlook for Radiation Therapists
As with many careers in the health care field, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects radiation therapists to see faster than average job growth through 2016. This is attributed to both an increase in the number of patients seeking care as well as technological advances in radiation therapy making it applicable to a wider range of cases. Most radiation therapists work in cancer-treatment centers and hospitals with a small number working in physicians' offices and out-patient care centers.
Salary Information
According to the BLS, median annual wages for radiation therapists were $72,910 as of May 2008. Salaries ranged from $47,910 for the lowest ten percent to $104,350 for the top ten percent.
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