How to Become a Radiation Therapy Technologist
A radiation therapy technologist works closely with oncologists and radiologists. The therapist administers the cancer treatment to patients by exposing areas of their bodies to ionizing radiation. The therapist also maintains the radiation therapy equipment and the patient’s records. Surprisingly, becoming a radiation technologist doesn’t take very long.
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Instructions
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Start preparing when you’re still in high school. Professionals recommend taking all the advanced courses in math, science and English.
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Train to become a radiation therapy technologist by choosing a one-year program at a hospital. However, to qualify, you must have graduated from a radiologic technology program. Another way to qualify is if you’re a nurse with educational training in radiation physics.
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Choose the two-year program if you have your high school diploma or GED. You can train at a community college. Medical Training directory.com is an online site that you can use to help you locate a community school.
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Look for a program that offers training in radiation oncology, oncologic pathology, radiobiology, as well as radiation physics and radiation protection. Other important areas are radiographic imaging, practicum and clinical dosimetry.
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Complete the program successfully and qualify for Certification, which is optional. A certification can help your career development and will qualify you to compete for the best positions.
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Apply for positions at local hospitals and cancer centers. If you live in a small town, you may want to consider relocating to a bigger city to increase your possibilities of obtaining a position. Find out if the institution you’re considering for employment offers incentive sign-up bonuses or helps with relocation expenses.
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Tips & Warnings
Average salary for a radiation therapy technologist ranges from $22,000 to$36,000, depending on where you live.
Make sure to use protective equipment, and observe radiation procedures to minimize radiation hazard risks.
