What is a radiation therapist?
A radiation therapist is a medical practitioner who is trained to use radiation (high-energy rays) to treat diseases. Often, this occupation is confused with that of a radiologist, but the two are not the same. A radiologist works on a diagnostic level while a radiation therapist actually handles treatment. A radiation therapist works as part of an oncology team, using a type of machine called a linear accelerator to provide treatment. These machines point high-energy rays at cancer cells. The rays hit the affected tissue and produce ions, which work on shrinking and even destroying tumors. A radiation therapist pinpoints the tumor, sets up the machine, positions the patient, and operates the machine from another room, where he or she is safe from the radiation. Part of the job is monitoring the patient during treatment, using a TV monitor and an intercom. Besides operating the machine and monitoring the patient, a radiation therapist is also responsible for keeping patient treatment r
Radiation Therapists are health care professionals skilled in the art and science of medical radiation treatment delivery. The majority of patients receiving radiation therapy have cancer. Along with surgery and chemotherapy, radiation therapy offers these patients the best chance to succeed in the fight against their disease. Major focus areas are the care and assessment of patients, simulation, treatment planning, and delivery of treatments using linear accelerators and radioisotopes. High technology equipment and innovative treatment methods maximize treatment effectiveness. Radiation therapists must have excellent technical skills, and also be empathetic and effective communicators. Radiation therapy can be a very rewarding career. For questions concerning any of our degrees, please contact: Valerie Long Health Professions Academic Advisor 870-972-3713 vlong@astate.
When cancer patients need radiation treatments, they are assisted by radiation therapists. These medical professionals, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, use machines called linear accelerators to administer these treatments. The treatment administration process happens in two parts. First, the therapist creates a simulation environment to determine how best to target the cancerous tumor. After consulting with physicians about the proper course of treatment, the therapist then administers the radiation, keeping watch of the 10 to 30 minute process on a television monitor. Radiation therapists’ responsibilities also include maintaining the linear accelerator and assisting dosimetrists, medical professionals who are responsible for determining the radiation amounts for treatments, according to the bureau. Educational Requirements for Radiation Therapists According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiation therapists are typically required to possess either an a
