Radiation Oncology Team
Radiation Oncologists are the doctors who evaluate the appropriateness of radiation therapy, integrate care with other providers and supervise radiation therapy treatments. These physicians work with the other members of the radiation therapy team to develop appropriate treatment plans and ensure that each treatment is given accurately. Radiation Oncologists also monitor tumor responses to treatment during the course of therapy and manage side effects associated with treatment.
Radiation Oncologists have completed at least four years of college, four years of medical school, one year of general medical training, and four years of residency or specialty training in Radiation Oncology. They have extensive training in cancer medicine and the safe use of radiation to treat disease. If they pass a special examination, they are certified by the American Board of Radiology. All of our Radiation Oncologists are Board Certified.
Harold James Wallace III, M.D.
Ruth Heimann, M.D., Ph.D.
Thomas A. Roland, M.D.,
Deborah A. Rubin, M.D.,
Peter D. Swift, M.D.
Medical Radiation Physicists work directly with the Radiation Oncologist during treatment planning and delivery. They oversee the work of the Dosimetrists and help ensure that complex treatments are properly tailored for each patient. Medical Physicists are responsible for developing and directing quality control programs for equipment and procedures. Their responsibility also includes making sure the equipment works properly by taking precise measurements of the radiation beam and performing other safety tests on a regular basis. They may also be involved in teaching and research activities.
Medical Physicists have earned either a masters or doctorate level graduate degree and are certified by the American Board of Radiology.
Dosimetrists carefully calculate the dose of radiation to make sure the tumor gets enough radiation. Using computers, they work to develop a number of treatment plans that can best destroy the tumor while sparing normal tissue. Since treatment plans are often very complex, Dosimetrists work with the Radiation Oncologist and the Medical Physicist to choose the best treatment plan for each individual.
Many Dosimetrists start as radiation therapists and then, with very intensive training, become Dosimetrists. Others are graduates of one- to two-year dosimetry programs. They are certified by the Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board.
Radiation Therapists work with Radiation Oncologists to administer the daily radiation treatment as prescribed by the doctor. They maintain daily records and regularly check the treatment machines to make sure they are working properly.
Radiation Therapists go through a two- to four-year educational program following high school or college. They take a special examination and may be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Radiation Oncology Nurses work together with Radiation Oncologists and Radiation Therapists to care for you and your family during your radiation treatments. They will explain the possible side effects you may experience and describe how you can manage them. They will assess how you are doing throughout treatment and will help you cope with the changes you may experience. They will also provide support and counseling to you and your family.
Our Radiation Oncology Nurses are licensed registered nurses with additional accreditation in Oncology (OCN certified).
Clerical Support Staff that take care of all of the clerical duties of the entire department including the scheduling of appointments, filing, insurance, billing and transcription.
Our Social Worker is available to provide a variety of supportive services to you and your family. She can provide counseling to help you and your family cope with the diagnosis of cancer and with your treatment. She will also help arrange for home healthcare and other services.
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