Radiation Therapists: Delivering Care, One Beam at a Time
Radiation therapy is a crucial component of cancer treatment. After a patient has been diagnosed with cancer, radiation therapists use radiation to deliver high doses of energy to a specific area of the body. This energy damages the cancer cells, making them unable to grow and divide. Radiation therapists play a critical role in the health and well-being of those affected by cancer.
Radiation therapists work with a variety of different patients, from young children to elderly adults. Some examples of the types of cancer that radiation therapists might treat include breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, brain tumors, and lymphomas.
Radiation therapists work with a team of medical professionals, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and oncology nurses, to develop treatment plans that are tailored to each patient’s individual needs. They use a variety of advanced technologies to deliver the radiation to the patient, including linear accelerators, brachytherapy, and proton therapy.
To become a radiation therapist, individuals must complete a two-year associate’s or four-year bachelor’s degree program in radiation therapy from an accredited institution. In addition, they must pass a national certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Radiation therapists can progress within the field by obtaining additional certifications, such as the Certified Radiation Therapy Technologist (CRTT) or the Registered Radiation Therapist (RRT) designation. Additionally, they may pursue advanced degrees in medical dosimetry or medical physics.
For those interested in entering the field, there are a variety of options. Many institutions offer programs in radiation therapy, and there are also certificate programs available for individuals who already have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Additionally, individuals may consider volunteering or shadowing a radiation therapist to gain experience and insight into the field.
In conclusion, radiation therapists play a vital role in the care of those affected by cancer. Their specialized knowledge and skills allow them to deliver high-quality care to patients in need. For those interested in pursuing a career in radiation therapy, there are a variety of educational and training options available, as well as opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Occupation: Radiation Therapists
Radiation therapists are healthcare professionals who operate machines that deliver radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. They work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and other healthcare facilities.
Job level and Salary data
The job level of radiation therapists varies depending on their experience and education. The average salary data for this occupation is as follows:
| Location | Union status | Job level | Average salary | Median salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US National Average | Nonunion | All levels | $97,864.00 | $92,539.20 |
| US National Average | Time-based pay | All levels | $98,321.60 | $94,224.00 |
Effects of Union on this job
The effects of union on this job are not clear. While some radiation therapists might benefit from union representation, others might not see any significant changes in their job conditions or salary. This largely depends on the policies and bargaining power of the union representing the professional group.
Geography and Salary data
The following are the two geographies where radiation therapists are best paid and least paid on average:
| Location | Average salary | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | $123,430.00 | $114,190.00 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $115,100.00 | $104,340.00 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | $68,040.00 | $66,860.00 |
