Radiation Therapist Salary

Radiation therapy is a well-paid, important part of an oncology team. Radiation therapy is used to attack cancer, and the radiation therapist is an integral part of this process. The field of radiation therapy is expected to experience a lot of growth, especially compared to the rest of the job market. Radiation is often one of the only ways cancer is treated, so a radiation therapist is a much-needed individual.

Radiation therapists work mainly in hospitals and cancer care centers. Their job is to initially pinpoint the location of the cancer in a patient, either through a CT scan or an x-ray. After the cancer is located, the radiation therapist will work with the oncologist and other members of the cancer treatment team to determine a treatment plan. They are also responsible for a good deal of paperwork like recording treatments and progress.

The linear accelerator is a machine that produces high-energy radiation that is directed at cancer cells. This machine is used by the radiation therapist to shrink tumors or cancer cells. The radiation therapist is responsible for following the treatment plan and making sure the patient is doing well during in the midst of the treatment.

For all of these tasks, radiation therapists are compensated well. Average salary for a radiation therapist is $75,000. Another benefit to choosing a career as a radiation therapist, is that contrary to most healthcare professions, radiation therapists typically only work during daytime hours.

An accredited radiation therapy program is a must. Many community colleges and universities offer acceptable programs. Upon graduation, most respiratory therapists are required to become American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certified. This is an annual exam with a fee, along with required continuing educations. Many hospitals will pay or help pay for these costs.

This is a well-paying job with good prospects for the future. This job is expected to grow almost 30 percent in the next five years. This is great news when compared to the other unemployment rates nationwide.