Becoming a radiation therapist involves completing an accredited program, which can vary in length and prerequisites, and passing a competency exam. A willingness to help others, attention to detail, and aptitude in math and science are important qualities. Certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists is often required. In Canada and the UK, programs may differ.
The decision to become a radiation therapist can be a very exciting one, allowing an individual to treat radiation illnesses such as cancer. There are several different paths a person can take in their quest to become a radiation therapist, depending on where they live and whether they want to specialize: two-year hospital programs, two-year degree programs, and programs that involve an undergraduate degree. in Bachelor. Prerequisites vary from program to program. Also, some people work towards a bachelor’s degree but then go on to receive a graduate degree in radiotherapy. It is important to distinguish a radiation therapist who works closely with physicians in administering treatment from a radiation technician who maintains the machines.
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiology Technology (JRCERT), an agency of radiation therapists recognized by the US Department of Education, lists accredited programs for radiation therapy. An individual who wants to become a radiation therapist can choose the type of program and state they want to study in. A list of accredited schools and clinical programs is generated to inform prospective students of their options.
Selecting an accredited program is important for anyone wanting to become a radiation therapist. Essential information and skills are learned through these programs. They will enable the student to perform a wide range of responsibilities that employers want their employees to have. By choosing an accredited program, a student is eligible to become licensed in any of the 50 states – instead of just licensing in the state in which they are a student.
Radiation therapy education involves spending time in the classroom, working in a laboratory, and overseeing clinical experience. Most accredited curricula included courses in medical ethics, mathematics, methods of patient care, health education, medical word terminology, radiation physics, human structure and function, clinical radiation, radiation protection, pathology, radiobiology, oncology, oncology by technical radiation, brachytherapy, medical imaging and clinical dosimetry. This provides them with a broad base of knowledge and allows them to decide whether they want to specialize in a particular area. Those who wish to become a truly successful radiation therapist must have a willingness to help others, a compassionate nature, an attention to detail, an inclination for mechanical processes, an aptitude and interest in mathematics and the physical sciences.
Most employers want people they hire to have a certificate from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. To receive certification, a candidate must graduate from an accredited radiotherapy education program and must pass a competency exam. It is a computer-based test that is offered several times throughout the year at various locations. Once the test is passed, those who graduate from an accredited program can call themselves registered radiation therapists. In some cases, a state’s licensing exam must also be passed.
In Canada, hospital radiotherapy programs are not available in some provinces such as Ontario, New Brunswick and British Columbia. In the UK there is a three year program that must be undertaken and there are also masters programs in therapeutic radiography. It is up to each individual to study the various types of programs and see which path she wants to take in order to become a radiation therapist.
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