Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapist

At Houston Methodist, the Radiation Therapist position is responsible for assisting in the planning, treatments and monitoring of patients. This position provides radiation therapy treatment while functioning as an essential member of the radiation oncology treatment team to provide total quality care to patients. The Radiation Therapist position acts as a liaison with Physicians and supporting personnel. This position delivers exceptional patient care, ensures optimal patient safety and customer service while adhering to radiation safety standards and guidelines established by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology in Radiation Therapy.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certifications, Licenses and Registrations section

Experience:

• None

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• CMRT - Certified Medical Radiologic Technologist - State Licensure - Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation_PSV Registration as a Medical Radiologic Technologist (MRT-GC) and
• ARRT-THR - Radiologic Technologist - Radiation Therapy (ARRT) - American Registry of Radiologic Technologist_PSV new graduates may be considered and if selected must obtain their ARRT (T) within 3 months and
• BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) - American Heart Association

Knowledge and Abilities:

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
• Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Radiation Oncology Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and exam documents
• Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers
• Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision including, organizing work flow and actively participating in problem-solving

Essential Functions:

• Communicates effectively with others to facilitate providing the highest quality service during every customer and patient encounter.
• Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards department goals for retention and employee engagement.
• Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.
• Provides education, accurate explanations and instructions to patients and family members at an appropriate level utilizing verbal and non-verbal skills, terminology and language.
• Delivers a planned course of radiation therapy accurately and safely, as prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist.
• Performs simulation operations and selects appropriate immobilization and positioning aides for simulation and treatment. Fabricates immobilization devices and custom blocks. Documents simulation steps accurately.
• Assesses the patient's condition, needs, and side effects daily. Provides information and refers the patient to the appropriate resources in a sensitive manner.
• Follows principles of radiation protection for patient, self and others.
• Follows safety standards and conducts all radiation therapy procedures accordingly. Maintains proper sterile techniques for procedures, regularly practices aseptic techniques, and ensures compliance with radiation safety and infection control procedures.
• Implements and delivers accurately the prescribed planned course of radiation therapy utilizing department equipment, adhering to acceptable department, institutional, governmental, and professional standards.
• Performs and documents warm-up procedures and machine operation checks, as recommended by manufacturer, physics and department guidelines.
• Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures. Enters, validates and reviews charges at the time service is delivered, as appropriate.
• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.
• Participates in department projects or shared governance activities. Assumes responsibility for growth and development by participating in in-services programs and continuing education.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a Therapist.

Supplemental Requirements:

• Work Attire
• Uniform: Yes
• Scrubs: Yes
• Business professional: Yes
• Other (department approved): Yes
• On-Call* *Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.
• On Call* Yes
• Travel** **Travel specifications may vary by department
• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No

Company Profile:

Houston Methodist Hospital is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 hospital in Texas and one of America's "Best Hospitals." As a full-service, acute-care hospital located in the Texas Medical Center and the flagship hospital of Houston Methodist, it has evolved into one of the nation's largest nonprofit teaching hospitals and a leader in innovative medical research with a comprehensive residency program. Two of Houston Methodist's primary academic affiliates are among the nation's leading health care organizations: Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Houston Methodist also has affiliations with Texas A&M University and the University of Houston. Houston Methodist Hospital offers unparalleled care for thousands of patients from around the world.

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.