Radiation therapists are usually the largest staff group in a radiotherapy department and The William Buckland Radiotherapy Centre is no exception to this. There are about 30 - 40 radiation therapists, or “RTs” as you may hear them referred to. Many of the RTs at William Buckland have worked interstate and overseas and between them have a wealth of skill and experience within the field of radiation therapy.

RTs work as part of the close knit team that looks after patients referred for radiotherapy. The RTs develop the treatment plan for the patient and then treat the patient each day according to that plan. The planning stages may involve a number of appointments and steps for both the patient and the RT. The area to be treated is then imaged using a unit called a simulator which takes x-ray pictures of the body or a CT scanner which takes cross sectional pictures through the body . The next step is to devise the treatment plan according to a prescription for treatment from the Radiation Oncologist. Some plans may require very complex computer planning to devise the radiation plan for the patient. Other plans may simply require a few short calculations. RTs will also provide information to you as you progress through the various stages of planning and then subsequently treatment.

You will see RTs during the planning stage and every day during treatment they are a source of information and advice for you. They may not be able to answer all your questions and if so are always happy to find someone who can and put you in touch with them. RTs are also actively involved in patient support groups and programs such as the Living With Cancer Program.

RTs are also participants in research and education activities. The department is constantly involved with clinical trials and developing new and improved ways of providing care and treatment. Many RTs are also involved with undergraduate and postgraduate radiation therapist courses at RMIT and Monash University.