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 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 excellent. 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 $57,700 in 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $47,380 and $69,650. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,550, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $83,340. In general medical and surgical hospitals, median annual earnings of radiation therapists were $58,320 in 2004.
Professional Organizations
Visit the following Web sites to learn more about radiation therapy:
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