Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Radiation Therapist- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Assisting and Caring for Others Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
- Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Working Life
In the HSE Radiation Therapists are part of a clinical workforce called Health & Social Care Professionals, who work together with medical and nursing colleagues as a team in the delivery of clinical, therapeutic and social care.
A Radiation Therapist is an expert oncology healthcare professional who plays a pivotal role in the treatment and care of patients undergoing Radiation Therapy.
The role is crucial in the prehabilition, treatment planning, management, treatment, and aftercare (survivorship) of various types of cancers and other medical conditions that require radiation therapy. They are often the main point of contact with patients during their visits to radiotherapy, given the close nature of their work directly with cancer patients.
Radiation Therapists also have expertise in the treatment of non-malignant conditions with radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapists work closely with other medical specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists and palliative care physicians, as part of a multidisciplinary team caring for patients with cancer.
Most patients have already been given a diagnosis of cancer prior to referral to a radiation therapist. The radiation therapist is responsible for assessing the patient by clinical evaluation, and organising imaging and other tests, in order to establish a management plan for an individual. Often, this is done in conjunction with other members of the team (both medical and non-medical).
Radiation Therapists are an integral part of the initial and ongoing management process, and have an important role in communicating with patients, their family members and other carers in relation to all aspects of the management of the patient’s disease and overall care.
They work with oncology teams and provide individualised treatment plans. They utilise medical imaging equipment, monitor treatment progress, and offer support to patients and their families.
In particular, radiation therapists are the experts managing the detail of the radiation therapy component of treatment. They work closely with medical physicists and radiation therapists to plan and deliver effective radiation treatment.
Radiation Therapists have overall responsibly for determining and prescribing the most suitable dose of radiation (from high energy X-rays, electron beams or gamma rays) to deliver in a particular case, and the method and technique by which this will be achieved. They have skills and knowledge that enable the many relevant clinical, biological and pathological factors to be merged into an individual recommendation regarding a course of radiation treatment. The application of their clinical and technical expertise aims at optimising the benefit of radiation therapy for their patients, whether the goal be cure of cancer or alleviation of symptoms e.g. pain.
Consideration of the patient’s social situation, their beliefs and wishes, and the impact of any treatments on quality of life of a person is a critical part of decision-making.
Where Will I Work
Many radiation therapists work in hospital cancer departments or in larger cancer treatment centres.
Many radiation therapists also do clinical research, asking their patients if they wish to enter clinical trials. Some also do laboratory research.
Most radiation therapist are also involved with teaching – both medical students and especially trainees training on-the-job in the specialty.
The HSE is the biggest employer in Ireland for this occupation. Further information from the HSE on the duties and skills for this occupation can be found here.
Apart from the HSE you may work in private healthcare, medical technology & radiation equipment companies, in academic and research institutions.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Position patients for treatment with accuracy, according to prescription.
- Administer prescribed doses of radiation to specific body parts, using radiation therapy equipment according to established practices and standards.
- Follow principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.
- Review prescription, diagnosis, patient chart, and identification.
- Conduct most treatment sessions independently, in accordance with the long-term treatment plan and under the general direction of the patient's physician.
- Enter data into computer and set controls to operate or adjust equipment or regulate dosage.
- Check radiation therapy equipment to ensure proper operation.
- Observe and reassure patients during treatment and report unusual reactions to physician or turn equipment off if unexpected adverse reactions occur.
- Educate, prepare, and reassure patients and their families by answering questions, providing physical assistance, and reinforcing physicians' advice regarding treatment reactions or post-treatment care.
- Maintain records, reports, or files as required, including such information as radiation dosages, equipment settings, or patients' reactions.
Qualities - Radiation Therapist
- Excellent communication skills and a balanced personality often able to cope with tragic clinical circumstances.
- Ability to make sound clinical judgements, especially under significant pressure.
- Tact, diplomacy, ability to delegate, inform and listen.
- A commitment to the specialty indicates very hard work and willingness to be a team member without necessarily always being the leader.
Interests - Radiation Therapist
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Entry / Progression - Radiation Therapist
CORU Requirements
There are a variety of study routes for students wishing to pursue a career in the health and social care professions. However, not all courses lead to the direct path of being able to practise in Ireland once qualified. In Ireland, if you want to practise as a Radiation Therapist, you must be registered with CORU, - Ireland's regulator of health and social care professionals.
One of the functions of the Registration Boards at CORU is to approve and monitor education and training programmes. The purpose of regulating education and training programmes is to ensure that all graduates entering the Register meet the necessary standards and have the knowledge and skills required for public protection. This ensures the delivery of safe and effective practise to the benefit of the service user.
What does this mean when selecting a course to study in Ireland?
This is the current list of Approved Qualifications to work as a Radiation Therapist. If you achieve one of these qualifications, you are eligible to apply for CORU registration.
What about studying abroad, and practising in Ireland once qualified?
If your professional qualification is awarded outside of Ireland and you want to register and work in Ireland, the process is a little more complex. You must first apply to have that qualification recognised by the Registration Board for your profession.
To be eligible to apply for recognition of your international qualification, you must have completed professional training, which gives you eligibility to practise your profession in the country where you were awarded the qualification.
The Registration Board will assess your qualification as well as any other relevant qualifications and work experience for compliance with the standards required for practising in Ireland.
If you are unsure about health and social care regulation, CORU is happy to help with any questions. You can contact CORU at [email protected]
There are multiple entry routes to the Radiation Therapy profession:
- Undergraduate BSc In Radiation Therapy
- NFQ Level 8 course in Sciences or a Health Sciences related discipline plus MSc in Radiation Therapy
RadiationTherapists are required to be registered with CORU, the regulatory body for Health and Social Care Professionals.
Click here for Information on Approved Qualifications and Registration with CORU.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: radiation therapy.
Search for CAO Courses
Mature Entry
All candidates are required to apply through CAO. Mature Entry is for those that are 23 years of age or older by 1st January in the year of entry. Mature entry route is based on applying for a course via www.cao.ie by 1st February. Applicants may be required to sit an assessment test or attend an interview.
Places are limited and mature applicants must satisfy the minimum entry requirements for the programme and will also be assessed based on each Colleges [RPL] Recognition of prior learning.
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: radiation, therapy, treatment, clinical.
- Advanced Radiation Therapy Practice - Clinical Practice (TCD),
- Advanced Radiation Therapy Practice - Treatment Planning (TCD),
- MSc Radiation Therapy (UCC).
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Career/ Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
In the HSE you could progress your career as a Senior Radiation Therapist or as a Clinical Specialist in a specific area such as Prehabilitation, Treatment, CT Planning, Information Support, Brachytherapy, Quality & Safety, Paediatrics, Radiation Safety and Survivorship.
Further information on clinical, management and educational pathways for career progression in the HSE is available here.
The HSCP Office is responsible for Leadership, Education and Continuing Professional Development of HSCPs working the the HSE. There are many ways of deepening your skills pertinent to your role as a Radiation Therapist within a specific setting. This can be achieved, for example, through postgraduate training or clinical courses.
HSeLanD the Irish Health Services's online learning and development portal offers an array of training and development opportunities delivered either online or in a classroom setting.
Apart from the HSE there are career opportunities in private healthcare, medical technology & radiation equipment companies, teaching, clinical education and research.
Further information is available from Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy (IIRRT)
Pay & Salary - Radiation Therapist
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €41k - €88k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
HSE/ Indeed
Last Updated: August, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Radiation Therapist
This occupation has been identified as a Job in Demand by the most recent National Skills Bulletin.
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Psychologists, Pharmacists, Opticians (including dispensing opticians), Dental practitioners, Medical radiographers, Podiatrists, Health professionals n.e.c., Health services and public health managers and directors, Social services managers and directors, Health care practice managers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2024).
Employment growth for this occupation was above the national average, although employment levels have declined annually since 2021. Employment was spread across a large number of roles, with low numbers in employment in each making it difficult to determine any changes in individual occupations. Overall, 69% were female, a quarter were in part-time roles and there was a slightly higher than average share who were aged 55 years and over.
Online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) were primarily for health services and public health managers/directors, and to a lesser extent, pharmacists. Employment permits issued were mainly for radiographers, but also included cardiac physiologists, dentists, psychologists and pharmacists.
Evidence of shortages is difficult to determine for these roles due to the small numbers employed.
Useful Contacts - Radiation Therapist
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Irish Medical Council
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Faculty of Radiologists, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI)
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CORU - Regulating Health & Social Care Professionals
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Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy (IIRRT)
