Radiation Therapist

POSITION SUMMARY:

In accordance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory standards, the Radiation Therapist delivers radiation therapy treatments to patients referred for treatment. The radiation therapist renders patient treatments using information from simulation, dosimetry, and the physician’s treatment orders. Keeps treatment records and prepares operational reports as required. Other areas of involvement include, but are not limited to, simulations, calculations, machine operations with efficient use of treatment units and radiation safety, preparing the treatment room, positioning patients and monitoring patients during the procedure. Performs job duties in accordance with the mission, vision and values of CCSF.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Administers prescribed radiation therapy treatments safely and accurately in accordance with physician treatment orders, dosimetry calculations, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards, including programming treatment machines with prescribed parameters such as dose, field size, gantry angle, and collimator settings.
• Positions and immobilizes patients on the treatment couch daily in accordance with written technical setup instructions, utilizing immobilization devices, shields, and positioning equipment to ensure accurate and reproducible treatment delivery.
• Reviews all treatment-related documentation prior to each session including radiation prescriptions, physician orders, dosimetry calculations, simulation instructions, and patient consents identifying and escalating discrepancies to the radiation oncologist before treatment proceeds.
• Monitors patients' physiological and psychological responses during and throughout the full course of treatment, proactively escalating changes in condition or adverse reactions to nursing staff and radiation oncologists to prevent complications.
• Operates linear accelerators, simulation equipment, and radiation therapy technology safely and proficiently, performing required daily quality assurance checks to verify proper machine function prior to patient treatment.
• Performs CT simulation and tumor localization procedures to support the radiation oncology team in defining target volumes and contributing to accurate, individualized treatment planning.
• Accurately enters and maintains all patient treatment parameters, daily treatment records, and operational reports in the electronic medical record system in a complete, timely, and compliant manner consistent with HIPAA, billing accuracy requirements, and applicable federal and state regulations including the False Claims Act, Anti-Kickback Statute, and Stark Law.
• Communicates simulation and treatment procedures to patients and families in a clear, compassionate, and understandable manner, addressing questions and providing consistent support throughout the treatment course.
• Collaborates as an active member of the interdisciplinary radiation oncology team including physicians, medical physicists, dosimetrists, nursing, and administrative staff to deliver coordinated, comprehensive patient care, including participation in chart rounds and daily huddles.
• Schedules patient treatment appointments and manages daily treatment schedules to optimize departmental patient flow and ensure timely delivery of care.
• Maintains a valid, unrestricted Radiation Therapist license and fulfills all mandatory annual training, competency requirements, and continuing education obligations relevant to radiation therapy practice.
• Participates in departmental and organizational quality improvement initiatives and adheres to all applicable safety regulations, accreditation standards, ethical guidelines, and organizational policies and procedures.