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Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
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CAREER
Radiation Therapists
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$86,850
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+7.1% (as fast as the average)
Most Common Level of Education
Associate's degree
Career
What Radiation Therapists Do
Provide radiation therapy to patients as prescribed by a radiation oncologist according to established practices and standards. Duties may include reviewing prescription and diagnosis; acting as liaison with physician and supportive care personnel; preparing equipment, such as immobilization, treatment, and protection devices; and maintaining records, reports, and files. May assist in dosimetry procedures and tumor localization.
Other Job Titles Radiation Therapists May Have
Computed Tomography Simulation Therapist (CT Simulation Therapist), Dosimetrist, Medical Dosimetrist, Radiation Therapist (RT), Radiation Therapy Technologist (RTT), Registered Radiation Therapist, Staff Radiation Therapist
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Position patients for treatment with accuracy, according to prescription.
- Administer prescribed doses of radiation to specific body parts, using radiation therapy equipment according to established practices and standards.
- Follow principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.
- Review prescription, diagnosis, patient chart, and identification.
- Conduct most treatment sessions independently, in accordance with the long-term treatment plan and under the general direction of the patient's physician.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Radiation Therapists
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Bachelor's degree (50%)
Associate's degree
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Other*
*All other responses combined for clarity.
Majors Related to Career
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
