Radiation therapy has been a cornerstone of cancer treatment for decades, and the professionals responsible for delivering this crucial therapy, radiation therapists, have played an indispensable role. With the increasing prevalence of cancer, the demand for these specialists continues to rise, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the radiation oncology field will see 6% job growth over the next decade.
According to the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), the traditional role of radiation therapists is to provide safe and effective delivery of radiation as prescribed as well as perform daily quality assurance checks on equipment and patient treatments. They administer radiation therapy to cancer patients, take detailed records of treatments and medical histories, administer x-rays to target cancer cells, monitor patient reactions to treatments, and work with other physicians and oncologists to ensure optimal outcomes for patients.
However, as technology advances and our understanding of cancer deepens, the field of radiation therapy is evolving to meet the challenges of modern healthcare.
Adapting to new technology and treatment methods
Over the past few decades, the field has witnessed a rapid progression in treatment modalities, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and proton therapy. Radiation therapists must not only operate these complex machines but also stay up-to-date with the latest developments in radiation treatment.
As imaging capabilities become more advanced, it allows for real-time visualization of the tumor and surrounding tissues for more precise targeting. This minimizes damage to healthy tissues, reduces side effects and enhances the overall effectiveness of radiation therapy. Radiation therapists are constantly learning about these new technologies and how to integrate them into patient care.
Increasing focus on quality and safety
With the increasing complexity of radiation therapy, maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety is paramount. Radiation therapists are responsible for verifying treatment plans, monitoring equipment performance and ensuring that every aspect of radiation delivery adheres to strict safety protocols. The role of quality assurance has become even more proactive, with radiation therapists participating in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes.
Furthering involvement in treatment planning
With a deeper knowledge of the technologies used for treatment, radiation therapists are also becoming more involved with the assessment of images to make decisions concerning patient alignment.
Radiation therapy no longer operates in isolation. Modern cancer care is characterized by multidisciplinary collaboration, where radiation therapists work closely with oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and other specialists. They are now integral members of tumor boards and treatment planning meetings, where they contribute their expertise to create individualized treatment plans. This collaboration ensures that the patient receives the most comprehensive and effective treatment possible.
This is especially true in the era of personalized medicine, which has transformed cancer treatment. For example, genetic profiling and molecular diagnostics enable oncologists to tailor treatment plans to individual patients’ unique genetic and molecular characteristics. This may involve adjusting radiation dose and technique based on genetic markers and treatment response. Radiation therapists must collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure that the radiation therapy plan aligns with the patient’s overall treatment strategy.
Providing deeper and longer-term support
As patient outcomes and satisfaction become increasingly important in the current healthcare system, radiation therapists have also become an important part of providing emotional support to patients who are undergoing intensive treatments. They are expected to establish a one-on-one relationship with the cancer patient and now play a more intimate role in making sure patients understand the course of treatment as well as the potential side effects and how to manage them.
They also play a vital role in survivorship care, as cancer treatments have improved, and more patients are surviving and living longer. This has led to a growing emphasis on survivorship care. Radiation therapists are now involved not only in delivering radiation treatment but also in monitoring and managing long-term side effects and ensuring the overall well-being of cancer survivors, helping them navigate the challenges of post-treatment life.
Overall, the role of radiation therapists is evolving in response to the changing landscape of cancer care, including technological advancements, personalized medicine, multidisciplinary collaboration, survivorship care, and a renewed focus on quality and safety. As the oncology field continues to advance, radiation therapists will play an increasingly vital role in delivering effective, patient-centered care and contributing to the ongoing battle against cancer.

Patrick Dotts
Patrick Dotts is a senior vice president at national healthcare staffing firm Soliant and has worked in the staffing industry for over ten years.