Radiology - Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapist

Radiation therapists operate machines, such as linear accelerators, to deliver concentrated radiation therapy to the region of a patient's tumor. Radiation treatment may shrink or eliminate cancers and tumors. Radiation therapists are part of the oncology teams that treat patients with cancer.

The Radiation Therapist, under the general supervision of a Radiation Oncologist, performs radiation therapy procedures on ambulatory and hospital patients as requested by a physician or other licensed provider for the diagnosis of disease and injury in accordance with established protocols.

Essential functions of the role include performing high-quality radiation therapy procedures, according to exam protocol, in a timely manner. Maintains production and quality of imaging procedures by following established standards and procedures. Utilizes AIDET when communicating with patients to identify patient service requirements, ensure the correct exam is performed on the correct patient, and establish rapport with patients and others. Instructs and communicates with patients and their families regarding the test to be performed and assesses patient's ability to tolerate the exam. Prepares patient and area for the procedure by positioning patient, adjusting immobilization devices, moving equipment into specified position, and adjusting equipment controls to set exposure factors. Protects patients and employees by adhering to safety requirements, infection control, drug and radiation policies, protocols, and techniques. Uses proper sterile techniques when setting up and performing invasive multimodality procedures and maintains hand hygiene requirements. Maintains equipment and work area to meet quality and cleanliness standards. Works with engineers and physicists to ensure optimal operational capabilities of the equipment. Reports issues to management or the appropriate department. Assists in maintaining supplies inventory. Ensures people are safe to enter the department by screening them according to approved policies and procedures. Obtains, verifies, and maintains all relevant documentation such as requisition/chart, patient history, pregnancy status, and shielding precautions taken, consent forms, policies, procedures, etc. Maintains medical imaging records in the appropriate system and according to department policies and standards for interpretation in a timely manner.

Key success factors include performing high-quality radiation therapy procedures according to exam protocol in a timely manner. Able to explain the procedure and put patients at ease. Able to provide services in a timely, accurate, and cost-efficient manner in compliance with established System and regulatory standards, policies, and procedures. Able to perform tasks alone without the need for routine oversight. Able to maintain a calm and helpful attitude, even under times of stress, and take appropriate and reasonable steps to resolve issues. Able to effectively administer first aid and use the emergency cart. Able to ensure customer satisfaction by limiting wait times, providing courteous service, remaining professional, reviewing patient satisfaction scores, and developing action plans when required. Demonstrates and maintains current knowledge, continued education, and skills appropriate care for the following age groups (specific to department): newborn, pediatric, young adult, adult, and geriatric. Able to serve as a preceptor by providing quality training to new team members and on new services and initiatives. Able to take calls, if required.

Benefits include immediate eligibility for health and welfare benefits, 401(k) savings plan with dollar-for-dollar match up to 5%, and tuition reimbursement with PTO accrual beginning Day 1.

Qualifications include certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in Radiation Therapy (ARRT-T).