Medical Dosimetrist - Radiation Therapy

Develops 2-D and 3-D external beam treatment plans for the approval of radiation oncologists either manually or utilizing a digital computer. Assists radiation oncologist in delineating target volume and potentially critical structures, using patient contours, radiographs, CT scans and other diagnostic studies including CT-MRI registration based on age-specific criteria of patients (see addendum). Ascertains that equipment and treatment rooms are properly prepared for the planned course of treatment. Reviews simulation and port films to assure accurate reproduction of treatment plan. Calculates radiation treatment machine meter settings required by treatment plan, documenting information in patient's therapy chart.

Transfers Rx data electronically through the use of record- and verify systems.

As requested by attending radiation oncologists, performs in-vivo dose verifications, measuring doses directly on patient during the course of radiation treatment.

Consults with radiation oncologist concerning radioactive implant sites, volume studies, materials, and the proposed dose distribution. Prepares implant apparatus and maintains inventory to assure that correct amount and type of radioactive material will be available to the oncologist.

Assists radiation oncologist in the operating room and GammaMed Suite with the loading of implant apparatus and the handling of radioactive material.

Performs required health physics measurements of patient exposure rates and safety surveys of equipment and operating room. Assists in the loading and removal of temporary implants.

Documents the amount and type of radioactive material used. Prepares all paperwork in accordance with established Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulations.

Identifies the location of radioactive sources on final placement films or CT scans and calculates post-implant dosimetry dose for presentation to radiation oncologist.

Participates in brachytherapy conference, presenting implant isodose distributions for discussion and review by staff oncologists.

Participates in Yale New Haven Hospital Regional Treatment Planning Program. Performs external beam treatment planning, interstitial and intra-cavitary implant Dosimetry and x-ray beam blocking for regional hospitals. Discusses plans with the referring oncologist to assure mutual understanding of information.

Performs weekly back-up and quality assurance procedures on computerized treatment planning data.

Participates in the clinical instruction of resident physicians, therapy and Dosimetry students. Actively participates in the interview and acceptance of students in the Yale New Haven Hospital Dosimetry Training Program.

Attends bi-weekly Physics Section Staff meeting. Participates in development and reform of departmental policies and procedures.

Performs all job duties and responsibilities in a manner that ensures customer satisfaction and promotes positive and constructive working relationships within the department and throughout the external medical community.

Graduation from an accredited four (4) year college or an accredited radiation therapy technology program (with certification in radiation therapy technology), supplemented by successful completion of a Dosimetry training program. On-the-job training for a period of two (2) years may be substituted for formal Dosimetry training. Certification by Medical Dosimetry Certification desirable Board but not required.

A minimum of two (2) years of experience as a Dosimetrist or a minimum of three (3) months of comprehensive training as obtained in a formal Dosimetry program.

Certification by Medical Dosimetry Certification Board desirable but not required.

Special Skills: Perform computerized and manual external beam and brachytherapy planning. Demonstrate knowledge of medical physics, clinical oncology, radiographic anatomy and health physics. Yale New Haven Health