Radiation Therapy
Field description
Radiation therapy involves treating disease with penetrating beams of high-energy radiation. For example, radiation therapy is used to treat cancer — alone or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy. Radiation therapists are highly skilled members of the cancer management team. They are responsible for accurately recording, interpreting and administering the treatment prescribed by radiation oncologists. During treatment, therapists help physicians use fluoroscopy, X-ray films or CT scans to localize and outline anatomical areas requiring treatment.
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More about Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapists have continual contact with patients for the course of their treatment, educating them about treatment and simulation procedures and potential radiation side effects. Monitoring and observing each patient's clinical progress and emotional needs also are part of the therapist's daily routine. The therapist, as a member of the health-care team, refers patients to physicians, nurses or social service professionals when necessary.
Career opportunities
Career opportunities for radiation therapists are good. Jobs are available in all areas of the country, both rural and metropolitan. Salaries are competitive with other health-care professions that require similar levels of education.
Radiation therapists are employed in hospitals, universities and clinics. After further study, you may advance to positions such as chief therapist, education director or dosimetrist and to administrative positions.
Earning potential
Median annual salary of radiation therapists was $69,138in 2007. The median salary in 2007 for a radiation therapist with 0—2 years experience is $55,093.
Professional organizations
Visit the following Web sites to learn more about radiation therapy:
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