Dosimetrist II

Medical Dosimetrist

The medical dosimetrist works under the supervision of the chief medical physicist and radiation oncologist to create, calculate and implement treatment parameters derived from a physician's prescription. Provides radiation dose distribution plans to the radiation oncologist and is competent in showing effects of beam modifying devices (blocks, wedges, bolus, etc.) to optimize dose distribution to a tumor volume. Performs medical physics tasks under the general direction of the medical physicist, when requested. Must be capable and competent of operating radiation producing equipment utilizing radiation safety measures. Must be able to perform a series of complex and precise technical procedures.

(35%) Designs a treatment plan by means of computer and/or manual computation that will deliver a prescribed radiation dose and field placement technique in accordance with the radiation oncologist's prescription to a defined tumor volume. Performs routine duties independent of supervision but consults with the radiation oncologist and chief medical physicist as required. Assists the medical physicist in carrying out the physics and dosimetry quality assurance program.

(35%) Performs calculations for the accurate delivery of the radiation oncologist's prescribed dose, document all pertinent information in the patient record, and verify the mathematical accuracy of all calculations using a system established by the chief medical physicist and head of physics division.

(15%) Considers dose-limiting structures in the design of treatment plans and document dose in accordance with the radiation oncologist's prescription.

(15%) Coordinates treatment simulations and tumor localization on dedicated devices, including CT, MRI, and PET when indicated, for radiation oncology treatment planning.

Other duties and responsibilities: Consults, performs, and assists in the planning and/or fabrication of compensation filters, custom shields, wedges and other beam modifying and/or immobilization devices. Consults with therapist staff in the implementation of the treatment plan including: the correct use of immobilization devices, compensators, wedges, field arrangement and other treatment variables. Consults, performs or assists in the application of specific methods of dosimetry including ion chamber, TLD or film measurement as directed by the medical physicist. Assists in intracavitary and interstitial brachytherapy procedures and in the subsequent manual and/or computer calculation of the dose distributions of these treatments where indicated.

Maintains compliance with State and Joint Commission requirements regarding radiation safety and protection for patients and staff. Attends scheduled in services to review policy/procedure and safety measures. Participates in process improvement activities. Contributes to the development of students in the department and is responsible for teaching and completing radiation therapy student competencies. Teaches applied aspects of medical dosimetry to radiation therapy and Dosimetry students. May be asked to rotate to another Radiation Therapy center to cover staff shortages or fluctuations in patient volume. Has a thorough understanding of proper billing practices and is able to use site specific office management system for scheduling and billing. Performs and documents proper charge capture for all procedures performed. Performs and documents proper charge capture for all procedures performed. Performs other duties as needed or assigned by Chief Dosimetrist.

Credential: BLS: Basic Life Support Equivalent Experience: Within 1 month of hire or transfer

Qualification Source: AHA

Essential: true

Credential: DOSEM: Dosimetrist Equivalent Experience: Must be board eligible or certified from the Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board. If not already certified, will complete Board Certification within one year of hire or transfer date.

Qualification Source:

Essential: true

Required Education

Education: Bachelors Degree Equivalent Experience: Masters degree preferred. Must be a graduate of a Medical Dosimetry Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredited program of at least 12 months

Education Specialization:

Essential: true

Other Information

Possesses working knowledge of radiation safety and current rules and regulations of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Has the ability to interpret and execute treatment plans as defined in relevant treatment protocols. Possesses mathematical skills including algebra, trigonometry and introductory calculus and be able to visualize objects in three dimensional concepts to facilitate the treatment planning process.

Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as trauma, grief and death. Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position. Is able to move freely about facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description. Overall vision and hearing are necessary with or without assisted device(s). Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling or crouching. Some exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required. Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance and ability to stay awake. Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis. Physical Demand Level: Light. Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 11-20 lbs., frequently (34-66% of the workday) 10 lbs. and or Walk/Stand/Push/Pull of Arm/Leg controls. Demonstrates the ability to effectively communicate with others in person and on the telephone. MyMichigan Health is a technology driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft Windows. An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health.