Reporting to the Manager of Radiation Therapy and under the general direction of the Team Lead Radiation Therapist, the Staff Radiation Therapist is responsible for the delivery of safe, accurate simulations and radiation therapy treatments according to the prescription provided by the Radiation Oncologist and any treatment protocol.
The Staff Radiation Therapist performs advanced treatment techniques and quaternary patient care. These procedures have a high level of complexity and specialization. Proficiency is achieved through various rotations at the Mass General Main Campus in Boston, including the Proton Therapy Centers; Lunder Treatment area; and the Simulation and Brachytherapy Suite.
Simulation
Understands patient history and diagnosis
Makes recommendations for patient positioning, immobilization and general treatment approach for daily setup based on guidance from the physician and dosimetry while maintaining patient comfort
Constructs complex immobilization devices
Discusses procedure with patient and assures their understanding
Performs CT Scans per protocol and as ordered by the physician, takes appropriate measurements, tattoos the patient, records all treatment parameters in electronic chart, obtains digital setup photos, and updates workflow manager accordingly during the CT Simulation
Inserts IV for contrast delivery according to prescribed protocols as needed
Administers IV and oral contrast per physicians order
Load and operate power injectors for contrast media administration
Transcribe contrast and IV orders into patient EMR per MD orders
Treatment Delivery
Responsible for efficient delivery of treatments and with maximum patient satisfaction
Discusses treatment procedure and possible reactions with patient and assures their understanding
Follows established department policy for acquiring pre-treatment images or performs other localization techniques to verify accurate patient treatment position
Follows site specific treatment delivery set up tolerances
Monitors patients for unusual reactions and events, reporting occurrences to the radiation oncologist, resident or nurse
Accurately delivers and documents radiation treatment according to prescription
Quality Assurance
Reviews charts and all treatment parameters prior to first treatment to ensure compliance with pre-treatment quality assurance program
Performs weekly chart checks for completeness of documentation
Performs daily quality assurance checks on treatment delivery systems per protocol
Responsible for verification of treatment parameters and patient identification through universal protocol / pre-procedure verification process
Other Duties
Provide patient orientation and education during the simulation and treatment process, answer patient questions using language that is easy to understand
Responsible for scheduling patients, maintaining coordination of treatment related activities and performing patient education
Maintains an orderly, clean and efficient work area
Maintains inventory of all patient care and delivery supplies
Participate in orientation of new staff and education of therapy students
Participate in performance appraisal for other therapists and students
Participates in department meetings, retraining and continuing education activities
Joins and actively participates in department committees, retraining and continuing education activities.
Qualifications
Qualifications
Candidates/incumbents must be graduates of ARRT approved programs in radiation therapy technology
New graduates must obtain temporary license to practice from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Radiation Control Program, prior to beginning their employment
New graduates are given 90-days from date of hire to pass the ARRT certification examination.
Associates degrees will be accepted for candidates that completed their education prior to 2000
Candidates that graduated in 2000 or later must possess a Baccalaureate degree
New Graduates
• Clinical internship in a major cancer center is preferred
• Experience with modern linear accelerators, simulation and verify / record systems
All Candidates and Incumbents
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Willingness to teach student therapists and serve as a positive role model for all staff members
• Duties are performed in the MGH Radiation Oncology Department, FHBurr Proton Therapy Center, Emerson Hospital, Newton Wellesley Hospital or other satellites
• Incumbents work in close physical proximity to team members
• Must be willing to work flexible days/hours based on department need and patient volume
• Contribute to efficient operation of the treatment units with minimal overtime and proper handling of expensive equipment.
• Accurate and on-time billing for procedures performed
EEO Statement
Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.