What does a Dosimetrist do?
Dosimetrists direct the course of therapy for a patient by working with the oncology team to locate growths and create treatment plans to pinpoint the problem area with a precise beam of radiation intended to destroy unhealthy cells while avoiding surrounding healthy tissue. The Dosimetrist works with specialized oncological equipment to calculate the exact dose needed during surgery and assists the physician during procedures with visual guidance and technical support. Their expert knowledge helps patients achieve a high rate of success in treatment and recovery.
Their day-to-day activities include using medical computers to analyze data received from other devices such as MRIs and relaying their finding to the radiation therapy team. In addition, the Dosimetrist spends a large part of their day analyzing data, double-checking mathematical calculations and maintaining high-quality control standards.
Dosimetrist skills and qualifications
There are numerous qualifications required for a Dosimetrist to succeed, including:
- Advanced knowledge of medicine, anatomy, radiation physics and safety, clinical oncology and radiobiology
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to convey complex information regarding procedures, including calculations
- High-level critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Interpersonal skills that facilitate effective communication between the oncology staff as well as patients and their family members regarding procedures and expected outcomes
- Strict organizational skills to properly manage multiple projects and treatment plans
- Mathematical skills such as calculus, trigonometry and algebra
- The ability to interpret complex mathematical data using the assistance of medical computers
- Must be highly proficient with radiation equipment with a focus on safety
Dosimetrist experience requirements
Applicants typically need at least two years of on-site clinical experience to be qualified for the Dosimetrist position. However, some settings may accept an advanced degree instead of clinical experience.
Dosimetrist education and training requirements
Most clinics and hospitals require a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. However, many have stricter education requirements and prefer their candidates to have a master’s in clinical oncology or a related field. Certification by the Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board is also highly valued in quality candidates as it illustrates a focused study of Dosimetry. Continued education is typically required to ensure the oncology staff is up-to-date on current research and technology.
Dosimetrist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Dosimetrist is $113,657. However, salaries tend to vary based on geographical location, the company and the candidates’ experience.
Dosimetrist salary expectations
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Common salary:
2532.08 WEEKLY -
Typical salaries range from
1200.00 -4100.00 WEEKLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
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Dosimetrist job description FAQs
Who does the Dosimetrist report to?
In most cases, they will report to the head of the oncology department. However, there will also be communication within the department and other departments in a hospital, depending on the extent of care provided to patients in a particular setting.
What should you look for in a Dosimetrist’s resume?
A promising Dosimetrist will have sufficient educational and clinical experience to contribute to your oncology team. In addition, qualified candidates will have a demonstrated interest in health topics and may have interesting internships or volunteer activities.
What qualities make a good Dosimetrist?
Dosimetry requires a sharp, analytical mind. An adept Dosimetrist will demonstrate both mathematical ability and logic skills that will help them with complex medical puzzles. They will also have empathy and compassion when working with patients and their families, particularly when discussing treatment prognoses.
What is the difference between a Dosimetrist and a Radiation Therapist?
Radiation Therapists are members of the oncology team that administer radiation to patients during treatment, targeting the areas that need radiation as decided by the Dosimetrist. While they work closely together during therapies, the Dosimetrist determines the amount of radiation used while the Radiation Therapist, under the supervision of the Dosimetrist, applies the radiation to the patient.
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