Radiation Therapist - ONC (Radiation Oncology)

Purpose

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is internationally recognized for its leadership in the prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer and is the region's only comprehensive cancer center designated by the National Cancer Institute. As the preeminent institution in western Pennsylvania for the delivery of cancer care, the performance of basic, translational, and clinical research, and the education of the next generation of cancer researchers and physicians, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is exceptionally well-positioned to contribute to the global effort to reduce the burden of cancer. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center’s Department of Radiation Oncology provides comprehensive, individualized care to patients with all types of cancer using state-of-the-art imaging technology and radiation delivery systems. Our board-certified radiation oncologists and medical physicists work in collaboration with referring physicians and multidisciplinary specialists across the entire spectrum of health care to provide safe, effective radiation therapies based on the latest medical evidence. The American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO) accredits our radiation oncology program, recognizing our compliance with strict, national standards for cancer patient safety and radiation oncology practices. Hillman is the largest ACRO-accredited system in the nation. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is currently hiring for a Regular Full-Time Radiation Therapist to support the UPMC Pinnacle Westshore Radiation Oncology Network office located in Mechanicsburg, PA. This position offers a $15,000 sign-on bonus and will work a Regular Full-Time daylight schedule Monday through Friday. Under the direction of a radiation oncologist, delivers radiation treatments to patients as prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist and obtains localization images according to planned treatment delivery. Assists physician or nurse in the administration of contrast agents used during treatment localization. Performs measurements for use during treatment calculation. Collects and documents data acquired during the simulation procedure. Accurately inputs treatment-related data into the verify-and-record system. We offer a Radiation Therapy career ladder which allows our staff to grow within the field at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. The incumbent will be placed into the appropriate level of our Radiation Therapist career ladder based on education and experience. Looking to learn more about Radiation Therapy and join a renowned team at the Hillman Cancer Center? Discover insights and opportunities in our career blog, The Lasting Impact of Radiation Therapy.

Responsibilities

Clinical Operations: Assists in the orientation and supervision of students during clinical rotations. Assists the Chief Therapist in evaluation of student performance. Uses effective communication techniques and interpersonal skills to provide explanations for treatment-related procedures. Observes patients for expected and unexpected reactions to treatments and communicates this to appropriate staff members. Reinforces patient education/side effect management information and indicates non-compliance to medical/nursing staff. Maintains a safe, orderly treatment room. Under the direction of the Radiation Oncology Manager provides On Call coverage as needed. Has a good understanding of information systems and is fluent in all computer applications necessary to perform their job. Assists at other UPMC Radiation Oncology locations if the need arises. Regulatory Affairs Management: Participates in regulatory compliance activities and maintains continuous departmental readiness for inspections and surveys. Follows all radiation safety standards. Wears radiation monitoring badge and I.D. badge always. Remains HIPAA compliant always. Completes clinical competencies annually as required. Communicates any equipment issues to the appropriate site leadership. Clinical Operations: Performs treatment, simulation, fabrication of immobilization devices and shielding, radiosurgery, and brachytherapy procedures when applicable, according to written prescription and treatment plan. Performs measurements for use during treatment calculation. Collects and documents data acquired during the simulation procedure and accurately inputs treatment-related data. Provides safety in patient care through the consistent practice of departmental procedures for treatment administration. Recognizes deviation from prescribed treatment delivery and reports all deviations to the Chief Therapist / Physicist. Assures the quality of treatment delivery through the complete and accurate documentation of treatment records. Assures the quality and consistency of treatment portal placement by taking portal images according to departmental procedures. Explains treatment procedures to patient and/or family. Responds effectively to patient concerns and refers medical questions to appropriate personnel. Under the direction of a radiation oncologist, takes localization images according to planned treatment delivery. Assists physician or nurse in the administration of contrast agents used during treatment localization. Continuing Education Program Management: Participates in training programs required to maintain ARRT Certification. Performs in accordance with system wide competencies / behaviors. Fiscal Responsibilities: Participates in accurate and complete charge capture activities. Notifies appropriate site leadership of supply needs. Maintains travel expenses according to policy. Uses all UPMC Cancer Centers resources effectively. Quality Assurance / CQI Program Management: Prioritizes patient safety. Performs and documents daily and weekly QA activity for assigned equipment. Documents findings outside the range established by Physics. Notifies the Chief Therapist immediately of findings outside the normal range of operations. Participates in programs to measure and improve the quality of care within the Department, such as Press Ganey, Quality Improvement Measures, Chart Rounding, and Department Meetings. Works collaboratively with the Radiation Oncologist, Manager, and all team members to maintain high standards for quality service.