Dosimetry Assistant - Stephenson Cancer Center

Position Title:

Dosimetry Assistant - Stephenson Cancer Center

Department:

Radiation Therapy

Job Description:

General Description:

Responsible for routine technical work in Radiation Oncology treatment planning with the opportunity and expectation of ongoing enhancement and training in all aspects of treatment planning. Radiation Dosimetrist Assistants at this level are expected to be capable of developing routine radiotherapy treatment plans form 3D medical images (CT, MRI, PET). The assistant also performs ancillary dosimetry tasks such as block/mold room duties, HDR/LDR preparation, involvement in workflow management and billing for each patient. Work is performed under close supervision, progressing to limited supervision by Radiation Dosimetrists and/or Radiation Physicists. It is expected that advanced dosimetry skills and independence in all areas of dosimetric services will be developed while in this position. This position reports to the Radiation Oncology Manager and will receive work, direction and evaluation of technical skills from the Director of Radiation Physics.

Essential Responsibilities:

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position.  Inability to perform these responsibilities with or without an accommodation may result in disqualification from the position. 

• Performance of non-planning dosimetry activities which includes: Block/Mold room (creation of specific devices such as bolus and electron blocks under the directon of the Dosimetrist or Physicist); Patient specific dosimetry (in vivo dosimetry); Utilization and/or implementation of institutional electronic charting and workflow systems; Utilization and/or implementaion of institutional billing methods for a high standard for proper and accurate billing
• Performance of radiotherapy treatment planning which includes: Manual 2D monitoring unit (MU) calculations; 2D plans created from conventional simulation
• Performance of radiotherapy treatment planning which includes: 3D plans created from CT simulation using computer based treatment-planning systems including image preparation (e.g. import, assign CT-density table and image-registration); Setup and dose point creation, implementing dose prescriptions; Anatomical and planning contour delineation; Communication with physicians and phsyicists regarding planning parameters
• Responsible for importing diagnostic images (CT/MRI/PET); register and fuse diagnostic images to CT sim per orders
• Assist in plan creation for Intensity Modulation Radiation Therapy (IMRT) planning
• Delineate some portion of the OARs
• Participate in the consultation regarding the proper setup and immobilization of new patients as needed
• Transfer plans between treatment units; adjust plans, recalculate dose and document changes according to clinical needs
• Assist in updating and creating new policy and procedures for dosimetry functions.
• Participate in dosimetry related projects designed to improve radiation therapy processes.
• Participation in department-wide committees as an observer as time permits (e.g.: quality improvement and safety).
• Participate in contour rounds, and possibly chart rounds once a quarter or more frequently if scheduling levels permit.

General Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:  Graduate from a JRCERT accredited program in Radiation Therapy required

Experience: RT (R) (RT) with greater than 12 months radiotherapy experience required. Previous Radiation Therapy experience preferred.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s) Required: RT (R) (MR), RT (R) (CT) or an RT (R) (RT) required. Continuing educational hours are required to maintain the registered status of 24 hours in two years to maintain AART.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Strong mathematical and analytical skills, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
• Ability to function safely and effectively in the Radiation Oncology clinical environment.
• Ability to work effectively within the radiation oncology team.
• Ability to interpret medical terminology
• Ability to understand written and oral communication from medical staff and with patients, family, public and other professionals.
• Ability to identify anatomic structures on radiographs and cross-sectional radiographic images and MRI.
• Ability to interact with patients and family in such a manner as to inspire confidence and gain patient’s cooperation.
• Ability to communicate (understand written and oral communication) with medical staff, physics staff, radiation therapists, nursing, and clerical staff involved with patient care.
• Ability to effectively send, receive and respond to information; including the ability to read, write, listen, speak observe and use computers.
• Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology; radiation physics; radiation biology; pathology and malignant disease; tissue and organ dose tolerances.
• Knowledge of working with high-energy radiation materials and equipment and the hazards involved.
• Knowledge of the workings and use of complex radiation therapy treatment machines, specialized diagnostic x-ray equipment, electronic portal imaging, ARIA software, MLC (multi-leaf collimator equipment), optical guidance systems, dynamic wedges, tracking systems, and other new technologies as implemented and assigned.

Ability to make appropriate patient set-up recommendations to produce reproducible, accurate and precise treatment plans.

• Skill and ability in interpreting treatment planning orders and in communicating with medical and radiation physics staff to develop appropriate treatment plans.
• Respecting and honoring patient concerns including privacy and confidentiality.

Knowledge of functions of a radiation oncology clinic.

• Knowledge of charge entry system and ability to enter charges accurately.
• Knowledge of and ability to use required computer systems

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OU Health is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including PTO, 401(k), medical and dental plans, and many more. We know that a total benefits and compensation package, designed to meet your specific needs both inside and outside of the work environment, create peace of mind for you and your family.