What does a radiation therapist do?

I'm interested in possibly becoming a radiation therapist. What exactly does this job entail daily, and what kind of training or certification is typically required?

A Radiation Therapist is a healthcare professional who uses ionizing radiation to treat diseases, primarily cancer. This is a key role within the oncology team and can be highly rewarding as you help manage patient treatments and contribute to their recovery journey.

Daily responsibilities of a radiation therapist can involve:

- Meeting with patients to explain treatment plans and address their concerns.

- Collaborating with oncologists and dosimetrists to create a treatment plan that suits the individual patient's needs.

- Properly preparing and positioning patients for treatment to ensure the radiation hits the exact point needed.

- Operating complex machines such as linear accelerators to administer the prescribed dose of radiation to the targeted area.

- Continually monitoring patients during treatments, adjusting as necessary.

- Documenting treatment records and relevant data, while ensuring patient confidentiality.

As for training, most radiation therapists have an associate's or a bachelor's degree in radiation therapy. Coursework often includes subjects like human anatomy and physiology, physics, algebra, pre-calculus, writing, social sciences, and humanities, according to The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Clinical components are also part of the training, which gives hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.

After graduation, you'll typically need to get certified. In many states, licensure is a requirement for practice. Certification regulations can vary by state, but many require passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam, which also requires ongoing learning to maintain.

Remember, this field can be emotionally challenging, given the nature of the work and the seriousness of the diseases treated. Being able to handle this aspect of the role is as important as technical abilities and medical knowledge. Compassion, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and physical stamina are all important assets in a radiation therapist.