What does a Radiation Therapist do?
Radiation Therapists implement plans of treatment prescribed by an oncologist and created by a medical dosimetrist. Radiation therapists use accelerators and ionizing-radiation producing equipment to treat diseases, primarily different kinds of cancer. The radiation is administered in therapeutic doses and can send certain localized forms of cancer into remission. It can also be used to prevent the recurrence of particularly malignant forms of cancer after they have been removed during surgery.
Types of Work Environments
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care facilities
- Laboratories
Education and Training Requirements
Radiation therapists hold at least an associate's degree and have completed a clinical field requirement, although some have a bachelor's degree as well. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists also certifies radiation therapists and requires them to recertify and engage in continuing education every two years after their initial certification.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median salary for radiation therapists is approximately $89,530 per year.
Professional Organization
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Learn More
Explore what Radiation Therapy programs the Cleveland Clinic is affiliated with.
