Radiation Oncologists:
The radiation oncologists are the doctors who will oversee your treatment within the department. They work with the other members of the radiation team to develop your treatment plan and ensure that each treatment is given safely and accurately. Your radiation oncologist will monitor your progress during treatment and will help you manage any treatment related side effects. The radiation oncologist works closely with your other cancer doctors, including the medical oncologists and surgeons.
Radiation Therapists:
The radiation therapists work under the supervision of the radiation oncologist to administer your daily radiation treatment.
Radiation Oncology Nurses:
The radiation oncology nurses work together with your radiation oncologist and radiation therapists to care for you and your family during your radiation treatments. They explain the possible side effects you may experience and describe how you can manage them. In addition, they will assess how you are doing throughout treatment and will help you cope with any changes you may experience.
Medical Physicists:
The medical physicists work directly with the radiation oncologist during treatment planning and delivery. They oversee the work of the dosimetrist and help ensure that complex treatments are properly tailored for each patient. They make sure the equipment works properly by taking precise measurements of the radiation beam and perform safety tests on a regular basis.
Dosimetrists:
The dosimetrists use treatment planning computers to generate the radiation plan prescribed by your radiation oncologist to treat your cancer. They work closely with your radiation oncologist and medical physicist to develop a treatment plan that is specific to you.
Social Workers:
Social workers are available to provide a variety of supportive services to you and your family. They can counsel you and your family to help you cope with the diagnosis of cancer and with your treatment. They may also help arrange for home health care, transportation, financial support, and emotional support.
Nutritionists/Dietitians:
Nutritionists or dietitians work with you to help you maintain a healthy diet during treatment. They will help you modify your diet if the side effects of treatment are affecting your appetite. They will help you identify what you can eat and provide recipes, menu suggestions, and information on ready-to-use nutritional supplements.