What does a nuclear radiation therapist do?
Radiation oncology employs ionizing radiation to destroy cancerous tumors while sparing surrounding tissue. The radiation therapist administers the radiation to the patient.
What might a nuclear medicine radiation therapist do in a workday?
- assist in localizing tumors.
- participate in treatment and planning.
- deliver high doses of ionizing radiation as prescribed by the radiation oncologist.
- serve as the primary liaison between patients and other members of the radiation oncology team.
- must maintain a high degree of accuracy and awareness of safety issues.
How much does a radiation therapist make?
- $70,000 - $80,000
How do I become a radiation therapist?
Students intending to pursue a career as a radiation therapist should prepare by taking the most challenging high school courses available in science, math and English.
High school graduation (or a GED) is required for entry into a two-year or four-year radiation therapy program. A one-year program is available for individuals who have graduated from an accredited radiography program. Many employers also require certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Where else can I learn about becoming a radiation therapist?
Virginia Society of Radiologic Technologists
P.O Box 1114 / Salem, VA 24153
tel: (540) 355-6778 / web: www.vsrt.org
American Society of Radiologic Technologists
15000 Central Avenue. S.E.. / Albuquerque, NM 87123-3909
tel: (505) 298-4500 or (800) 444-2778 / web: www.asrt.org
American Society for Radiation Oncology
8280 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Suite 500 / Fairfax, VA 22031
tel: (703) 502-1550 / web: www.astro.org
American College of Radiation Oncology
5272 River Road, Suite 630 / Bethesda, MD 20816
tel: (301) 718-6515 / web: www.acro.org
State Licensure Requirements for Radiation Therapists:
A license is required to practice as a radiation therapist in the state of Virginia. For more information on licensure, applications and forms, visit www.dhp.virginia.gov/medicine.
Virginia Board of Medicine
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300 / Henrico, VA 23233
Phone: (804) 786-0370 / Email: medbd@dhp.virginia.gov
