Radiation Therapy Programs in Rhode Island

How to Become a Radiation Therapist in Rhode Island and Radiation Therapy Programs in Rhode Island

Radiation therapists are an important part of cancer treatment teams. A radiation therapist is responsible for administering treatments that use various forms of radiation to treat the patient’s cancer. Most therapists work with linear accelerators. The therapist will first x-ray the patient to pinpoint the correct area for treatment. He will then prepare the patient, explain the procedure and provide the treatment. Record keeping is another important part of the radiation therapist’s duties, to make sure that each treatment is properly documented. If you’re interested in learning about how to become a radiation therapist in Rhode Island and radiation therapy programs in Rhode Island, read on.

There is no single required curriculum to become a radiation therapist, but you will need some type of education in this field. Employers typically prefer those with an associate in applied science or bachelor of science degree in radiation therapy. Some therapists can work with as little as a certificate program in the field. Certificate programs are best suited to students who already have an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field such as nursing or medical assisting. Some type of formal education is necessary to obtain the proper certification for practicing as a radiation therapist. There are currently no programs in Rhode Island for this profession.

After obtaining a certificate or other degree in radiation therapy, you must obtain certification in order to practice in the state of Rhode Island. You must pass the certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board, or Certification Board for Radiology Practitioner Assistants. Upon completion of one of these certification exams, you can apply for licensure in the state of Rhode Island to practice as a radiology technician. If you want licensure in more than one area of radiologic technology, you must submit separate licensure applications to the state board. Supplemental authorization is also required for CT procedures.

Since Rhode Island is a very small state, it’s easy for students to pursue education in surrounding parts of New England. With a degree in radiation therapy from another state, applicants can easily practice in the state of Rhode Island. The job outlook for this profession is very good with a projected job growth of 20 percent between 2010 and 2020. In Rhode Island, the mean annual salary for radiation therapists is $87,090, or about $41.87 an hour. Those with earnings in the top ten percent of their field make more than $120,480 while those with earnings in the bottom ten percent make less than $63,440.