The Career of a Radiation Therapist


Introduction

For those of you who have ever thought about becoming a radiation therapist, this article is perfect for you. You will learn more about becoming a radiation therapist, what radiation therapists do on the daily, you will be familiar with the salary, the exact training you will need to reach, it's ups and downs and so much more!


What is it like to be a radiation therapist ?

Radiation therapists work with cancer patients in hospitals and medical clinics under the supervision of radiation oncologists.


What do radiation therapists do?

Radiation therapists use ionizing radiation to treat diseases notably cancer. To be more specific, radiation therapists sanitize and prepare radiation therapy rooms, they also make accessories to immobilize the patient for the duration of the treatment, monitor and document radiation treatments, position patients for treatment, and provide patient support throughout the course of treatment


What do radiation therapists do on a typical day?

On a typical day, they are usually rotated into one of three main areas: simulation, planning and treatment.


Where do radiation therapists work?

Radiation therapists work in hospitals and medical clinics.


How can I become a radiation therapist ?

To begin, you must complete a two-year Associates degree program. After completing your studies, students are eligible to write the examination of l’Ordre des technologues en radiologie du Québec. Success in this examination will qualify students as registered technologists and will allow them to work in Canada, in the U.S.A. and many other countries. After you've completed all this, you'll be qualified to work as a radiation therapist at the entry level.


How much money do radiation therapists make?

A radiation therapist's average hourly wage is $32.26. The minimum and maximum average hourly rates are $24.95 and $45.47, respectively. In Canada, the average income for a radiation therapist is $82,583 per year, or $42.35 per hour. Starting salaries for entry-level employment start at $74,890 per year, with the highest-paid professionals earning up to $86,046 per year. Although in Australia, the average income for a radiation therapist is about $80,000 per year. Starting salaries for entry-level or graduate professions range from $70,000 to $125,000 per year for more experienced and senior workers.


What kinds of additional training do radiation therapists need?

Radiation therapists can attend national and international conferences, study days and continuing education courses.


What are the dangers of being a radiation therapist ?

Because of the nature of their work, workers are being exposed to radiation or radioactive material. In the field, there are basic safety precautions prevent overexposure. So, there's nothing to worry about.


What are the chances that radiation therapists will be replaced by robots soon?

I doubt that robots will take over these jobs. Because part of a radiation therapists job is to listen to the emotional concerns and worries of the patient. Therefore, the chances are pretty low that they will be replaced by robots. On top of that, our job is to double check the robots and make sure everything is working right.


What age do radiation therapists retire at?

Radiation therapists retire around the age of 60 years old.


Conclusion

To conclude, I can't wait to finish my studies and finally start working in a hospital. I want to make a difference in people's lives, even if it's just by listening to patients' concerns. Who wouldn't want to work in one of the best medical jobs with the best advantages as like the salary, the schedule, the safety etc. I'm so excited!


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Sources and RADARS ratings

Source: https://healthtimes.com.au/hub/oncology/4/guidance/nc1/what-does-a-radiation-therapist-do/553/

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Source: https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/radiation-therapy-program/common-questions/

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Source: https://www.cegepsquebec.ca/en/our-study-programs/study-program-directory/radiation-oncology/

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Authority: edited reporting

Date: still relevant

Accuracy: probably true

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