Professionals Involved in Radiation Therapy Treatment Include

  1. Radiation oncologists: Radiation Oncologists supervises the treatment of each cancer patient undergoing radiation treatment. They establish and administer each cancer patient’s treatment plan, make sure that every medication is correctly administered, and they track the patient’s progress and change treatment to ensure sure patients receive quality care during treatment. Radiation oncologists can help detect and manage the side effects of Radiation therapy and work closely with other members of the radiation oncology team.
  2. Radiation therapists: Radiation therapists work with radiation oncologists. They administer the daily radiation to patients, under the radiation oncologist’s orders and supervision. They also keep daily records and periodically check the radiation machines to make sure they are functioning properly.
  3. Radiation oncology nurses: Nurses work collaboratively with the radiation team to care for patients during treatment. They help assess the patient before treatment begins and talk to the patient about their therapy, the possible side effects and their management. Throughout radiation treatments, patients may be evaluated weekly, or more often, by the nurse, to determine symptoms and concerns. Radiation oncology nurses are registered nurses. Some nurses in Radiation therapy have additional accreditation in the field of oncology nursing. Registered professional nurses in oncology, which include registered nurse professionals and nurse practitioners, have completed a master’s degree program.
  4. Medical radiation physicists: Qualified medical physicists work closely with the oncologist in the careful preparation and delivery of radiation. They oversee the work of the dosimetrist and help ensure that specific procedures are appropriately adapted for each patient. Qualified medical physicists are responsible for developing and directing quality control programs for equipment and procedures. We are responsible for making sure the equipment works properly. Health radiation physicists take accurate measurements of radiation beam characteristics and perform certain health checks daily.
  5. Dosimetrists: Dosimetrists carefully measure the dose of radiation to make sure the tumour receives an appropriate amount of radiation. They create several treatment plans that can destroy the tumour while sparing the normal tissues. Many of these treatment strategies are very complex. Dosimetrists collaborate with the doctor and the medical physicist to select the right treatment plan for each patient.
  6. Social workers: Social workers will be available to provide practical support and emotional therapy to patients or members of their families and may support them to cope. We also can help arrange for home health care and other services. Social workers may be certified. Certified social workers must hold a master’s degree and must pass an examination.
  7. Dietitians: Dietitians consult with patients to help improve wellness. They track patients’ weight and nutritional issues. Dietitians advise patients and may provide them with recipes and nutritional supplements to enhance their nutritional status before, during and after radiation treatment