Dosimetrist

Medical dosimetrists plan and administer ionizing radiation under the direction of a radiation therapist or physician. Primary duties include: 1) tumor localizations; 2) providing immobilization evices; 3) providing radiation protection; 4) planning or fabricating modifying devices; 5) calculating equipment settings, aligning beams, and detecting equipment problems; and 6) assisting in inserting radioactive substances inside body cavities for the treatment of cancer. Some medical dosimetrists are also involved in clinical research for the development and implementation of new techniques.

Work Environment
Medical dosimetrists work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and medical research labs.

Length of Training/
Requirements
A certificate program is available for individuals who are registered radiation therapy technologists with two years of experience and for individuals with a bachelor of science degree and a medical background.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $34,000 - $52,000.

Educational Programs
Certificate Programs/Bachelor's Degree
Baylor University Medical Center
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Professional Associations
American Association of Medical Dosimetrists
c/o Credentialing Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 1498
Galesburg, IL 61401-1498
309/343-1202