The Profession

The mission of the CARTI/UAMS Radiation Therapy program is to provide an educational atmosphere of distinction for the development of exceptional radiation therapists who are competent, compassionate, and professional.

The profession combines technical knowledge and expertise in cancer treatment with direct patient contact. The radiation therapist performs or assists in all aspects of radiation therapy treatment delivery and documentation. Following the prescription of a radiation oncologist, the therapist uses sophisticated equipment to deliver high-energy ionizing radiation to a localized target volume within the patient. Using the latest technology and treatment procedures, the therapist manipulates the linear accelerator while utilizing centering lasers to localize the treatment volume. 

Once the treatment area is defined and aligned appropriately on the machine, the therapist selects the proper settings on the control panel to deliver a specified amount of radiation (in monitor units) to each treatment field. The therapist is responsible for accurate calculation and documentation of all treatment parameters. Working closely with cancer patients and their families, the therapist provides technical support to the physician and physicist to ensure high quality, compassionate care for oncology patients. Employment opportunities are available statewide, regionally, and nationally in radiation therapy departments and freestanding outpatient clinics.

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