Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapists use advanced equipment and techniques to deliver the prescribed radiation dosage to treat mainly cancer patients.

Radiation Therapist Job Description

Detects the location of cancer through CT scan (a process where images inside the body are taken).

Collaborate with other medical professionals to develop radiation treatment plans for patients.

Determine the size or angle of the radiation beam directed into the patient's body for maximum effect.

Help patients manage the side effects of Radiation Therapy.

Conduct quality assurances of the machines.

Note

Radiation Therapy is not like Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy delivers drugs to the entire body. Whereas Radiation Therapy only targets specific areas of the body with cancerous cells. It aims to reduce the number of healthy cells affected during the treatment.

A day in the life

Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapists create a safe environment for patients, easing their worries and making it easier for them to get diagnosed.

What you should know about Radiation Therapist jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

It will be challenging as every patient has a different treatment position, different treatment instructions, and different moods.

Key Advice

To stay alert at all times. Be precise and accurate when giving radiation treatment to patients as it is irreversible.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
In Singapore, only the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) offers bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy.

Radiation Therapists should also be registered with the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC).
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Radiation Therapist career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Knowledge of Cancer Treatment

Understanding of Oncology and various cancer treatment modalities, focusing on radiation therapy.

Knowledge in Health and Behavioural Sciences

Strong foundation in Health Sciences, including Anatomy, Physiology, and Psychology.

Radiation Therapy Technology

Proficiency in operating and maintaining advanced radiation therapy equipment and technology.

Soft Skills

Communication

Effective communication skills for clear instructions and information exchange with patients and Healthcare teams.

Empathy

High level of empathy and understanding to provide supportive care to patients undergoing challenging treatments.

Collaboration

Teamwork ability to work closely with Oncologists, Nurses, and other Healthcare professionals in patient care.

“During treatment, we give the ideal dosage to the target area and minimise effects on other organs.”

Muhammad Rahmatullah Zainodin, Radiation Therapist

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is it dangerous being Radiation Therapists?

It is one of the misconceptions. Although Radiation Therapists deal with high doses of radiation, many safety measures are in place such as a personal meter (Thermoluminescent Dosimeter) to check the amount of radiation exposure!
What is the difference between the Radiation Therapists and Diagnostic Radiographers?

Radiation Therapists treat cancer using radiation. Diagnostic Radiographers use x-rays or scans to produce images.
How do Radiation Therapists work as part of a Healthcare team?

They work with many different Healthcare professionals. For example, they work with Medical Physicists to ensure the safe and accurate delivery of Radiation Therapy.
What types of equipment do Radiation Therapists use?

There are many different types of equipment Radiation Therapists use, including but not limited to CT Scanners, Treatment Planning Systems and Radiation Measurement Devices.
What is the employment outlook for Radiation Therapists?

Due to the increasing prevalence of cancer and the advancement in radiation therapy technology, there are more opportunities and a higher demand for Radiation Therapists.