Chief Dosimetrist Radiation Oncology

Overview

Coordinates and oversees the daily operation of radiation therapy treatment planning for patients. Participates in treatment planning committees and participates in clinical research projects in coordination and collaboration with the Chief of Physics.

Responsibilities

Oversees the performance of dosimetrists at local and satellite facilities. Reviews performance both concurrently and retrospectively pays attention to plan quality, completeness and accuracy of records.

Evaluates and counsels dosimetrists. Sets clear performance criteria and expectations following the performance check-in process. Identifies, prioritizes, and addresses the professional development and educational needs of dosimetrists.

Provides input to capital and operational needs documentation developed by Chief of Physics. Oversees and approves vacation schedules to ensure appropriate coverage for local and satellite facilities. Makes necessary staffing adjustments and prospectively advises the Medical and Department Directors of needs.

Maintains a working familiarity with all treatment approaches in the department and keeps abreast of new developments in the field of radiation oncology in coordination and collaboration with the Chief of Physics within Radiation Oncology. Ensures orientation of new staff to the department, including planning and other operating procedures Reviews and updates policies and procedures as needed within the DHMC Policy Library. Improves operating efficiency and the quality of care, recommends changes and/or takes action in coordination and collaboration with the Chief of Physics within Radiation Oncology Provides Radiation treatment planning for external beam irradiation and brachytherapy.

Develops individualized IMRT, VMAT, and 3-D treatment plans for Radiation therapy patients. Monitors and promotes the implementation of these radiation treatment plans for the individual patient. Designs of custom beam modifying and/or patient immobilization devices as needed.

Ability to perform hand calculation for simple treatments not requiring graphic plans. Supports quality assurance of patient treatment through weekly review of patient charts and attending general chart rounds as needed.

Assists during clinical and CT-aided simulations by request.

Teaches Radiation Therapy students, residents and other staff members. Participates in Radiation Treatment planning committees designed to improve patient care and treatment. These committees are in conjunction with the Chief Therapist and Chief of Physics.

Participate in special projects and/or procedures such as prostate seed implants, SRS/SRT, radiation material administration and linac commissioning as needed. May participate in clinical research projects in coordination and collaboration with the Chief of Physics Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree, or the equivalent in education, with 3 years of Certified Medical Dosimetrist and experience required

• Strong background in science, mathematics, or engineering with college-level courses in areas such as anatomy & physiology, clinical oncology, atomic & nuclear physics, diagnostic physics, radiation therapy physics, calculus and analytic geometry, linear algebra and vector analysis.

• Must possess the ability to communicate with a wide variety of other health care providers.

• Must be a self-starter who is detail oriented, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a leadership team.

• Must have minimal computer skills.

Required Licensure/Certifications

• Certification from the Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board (MDCB) required.