Job Summary:
The medical dosimetrist is a member of the radiation oncology team who has knowledge of the overall characteristics and clinical relevance of radiation oncology in the management of cancer or other disease processes, with special expertise in radiation therapy treatment planning. A dosimetrist is a key member of a radiation-oncology team, which treats patients with tumors and other cancerous tissues. This medical professional performs advanced mathematical calculations to determine the optimal radiation dosage, and the most effective external-beam geometry for administering the dose.
Dosimetrists create two or three possible treatment plans for patients, then work with radiation oncologists to select the best procedure. They detect the size, composition, and location of tumors. This allows radiation to be applied in a way that it does not damage healthy tissues. The dosimetrist is in charge of measuring the proper doses of radiation, which are generally provided daily for several weeks. The medical dosimetrists report directly to the Oncology Service Line Administrator.
Performance Expectations:
- Designs treatment plans with optimal beam geometry to deliver a prescribed radiation dose and to spare critical organs.
- Identifies and contours normal and dose-limiting structures by utilizing images from one or more data sets.
- Creates and transfers reference images and localization markers for portal verification and treatment delivery to include DRRS, CBCTs and other IGRT methods.
- Communicates/consults with radiation therapists in an advisory role in the implementation of treatment plans that include the correct use of immobilization devices, compensators, wedges, filed arrangement, and other treatment or imaging parameters.
- Performs calculations for the accurate delivery of the prescribed dose; document all pertinent information in the patient's record, and verify the mathematical accuracy of all calculations by acceptable methods.
- Provides assistance and technical support to the Medical Physicists, in radiation safety protection, and qualitative machine calibrations and quality assurance of treatment plans and radiation oncology equipment.
- Operates and performs quality assurance under the direction of the Medical Physicist on treatment planning computers.
- Supervise, perform, or assist in the application of specific methods of patient and/or beam dosimetry as required by the Medical Physicist.
- Assist in brachytherapy procedures by performing treatment planning and dose calculations. Performs or assists in receiving, loading, and shipping of radioactive materials as required.
- Demonstrates knowledge of utilizing radiation monitoring devices to measure radioactivity and perform assays as required.
- Teaches applied aspects of medical dosimetry to students, radiation therapists, and residents as required.
- Participates in clinical research and continuing education as required.
- Demonstrates working knowledge of radiation safety principles and practice, as well current regulations by the NRC and State regulatory bodies.
- Demonstrates the ability to interpret criteria and develop treatment plans as defined by relevant treatment protocols.
Qualifications:
Education/Skills
Completion of a university-affiliated medical dosimetry program that offers classroom and clinical training is preferred. Certification (MDCB) in Medical Dosimetry is required. At least eighteen months of combined classroom and work experience required. Excellent mathematical, analytical and research skills are required. Must have proficiency in radiation oncology treatment and adequate knowledge of safety and quality assurance procedures used during radiation therapy.
Work Experience:
Three years’ experience is preferred.
Certification/Licensure-DUE UPON HIRE
- Medical Dosimetry Certification
Mental Demands:
Ability to perform as a team member, cooperate with others, follow directions precisely, demonstrate initiative, set priorities, and function under stress. Must be detailed oriented.
