About Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapists are highly skilled healthcare practitioners with knowledge and training in physics, radiobiology, radiation safety, anatomy, and patient care. Radiation therapists have a unique opportunity to blend knowledge and skills of mathematics and science in their daily work. Radiation therapists operate sophisticated equipment to administer targeted doses of ionizing radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. Radiation therapists work in various settings including: hospitals, clinics, and companies within the industry. Although many consider radiation therapy to be fulfilling, lifelong career, advanced career opportunities exist in fields including medical dosimetry, education, management and administration, industry, and research.

Daily tasks of radiation therapists include:

• Reviewing prescription and diagnosis
• Preparing patients for daily radiation treatments
• Delivering daily radiation treatments
• Evaluating and monitoring treatment-delivery equipment
• Performing radiation dose calculations
• Assisting in dosimetry procedures and tumor localization
• Providing high-quality patient care
• Collaborating with physicians and other members of the healthcare team