Radiation Dosimetrist
Radiation Dosimetry
Radiation Dosimetry
Medical dosimetrists, in collaboration with radiation oncologists and medical physicists, generate radiation dose distributions and dose calculations to design radiation treatment plans that will deliver a prescribed dose of radiation to a defined anatomic area.
Responsibilities of a Medical Dosimetrist
Medical dosimetrists determine how much radiation will be delivered to a tumor site. Under the supervision of a medical physicist, they calculate and generate radiation dose distributions that follow the radiation oncologist's treatment plan. Medical dosimetrists use their knowledge of physics, anatomy and radiobiology to design optimal treatments that target the tumor while sparing the healthy tissue around it.
Medical dosimetrists apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology, oncologic pathology, radiation biology, radiation oncology techniques, treatment planning and dosimetry procedures, and computer computation in the performance of their duties. The medical dosimetrist accepts responsibility for designing a radiation oncologist (physician)-prescribed course of radiation therapy, considering dose-limiting structures and the need for special casts and immobilization devices. They must be able to communicate effectively with other health care professionals.
How do I become a Medical Dosimetrist?
Educational programs vary depending on program design, objectives, and the degree or certificate awarded. Most programs require prerequisite work in radiation therapy or radiation physics. The curriculum of an accredited program includes an extensive component of technical and professional courses, including an emphasis on structured, competency-based clinical education. Interested individuals should contact a particular program for information on specific courses and prerequisites.
Educational Pathway
Pre-requisites for a radiography program – 1 year
Completion of a radiography program – 2 years
Completion of a medical dosimetry program – 2 years
OR
Entry directly into a medical dosimetry program – 4 years
Total educational time minimum is 4 years.
Demand/Salary
Medical dosimetrists are employed in health care facilities, including hospitals and cancer centers. Salary and benefits vary with experience and employment location but are competitive with other health specialties. According to the 2007 salary survey conducted by the ASRT, medical dosimetrists had a mean salary of $87,031.
Comments from Author
Medical dosimetry is a highly technical field required precision to details. They are the highest paid field in radiology besides a radiologist. The number of jobs is less plentiful as each facility will only need to hire a few dosimetrists as compared to technologists. If interested in the oncology field, this is an area worth looking into.
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