The incumbent will play a crucial role in delivering radiation therapy to the cancer patients under the supervision of a Radiation Oncologist. He/She will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to ensure that patients receive the prescribed radiation treatment with precision and minimal side effects.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES PATIENT ASSESSMENT:

• Conduct preliminary assessments of patients to gather information about their medical history, treatment plan, and current health status.
• Review patients’ medical records, consult with Oncologists, and perform physical assessments to ensure the proper treatment plan is in place.

TREATMENT PLANNING:

• Collaborate with medical Physicists and Radiation Oncologists to plan and develop precise treatment protocols tailored to each patient’s specific needs and the type and location of the cancer. This includes determining the optimal radiation dose and the specific angles and techniques for delivering radiation.
• Use advanced computer software and equipment to simulate treatment fields, calculate radiation doses, and ensure accurate delivery of radiation.

PATIENT CARE:

• Explain the treatment process, potential side effects, safety procedures and importance of compliance with treatment schedules to patients to ensure their understanding and cooperation throughout the treatment course.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including Radiation Oncologists, Medical Physicists, and Oncology Nurses, to provide comprehensive care to patients.
• Offer emotional support and provide information to patients throughout the course of treatment, addressing any concerns or side effects they may experience.

PATIENT POSITIONING:

• Ensure that patients are positioned accurately, typically through the use of immobilization devices or molds, to ensure accurate and reproducible treatment delivery precisely as planned.
• Mark reference points on the patient’s body for consistent treatment setup.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION:

• Operate and maintain complex radiation therapy equipment, such as linear accelerators, brachytherapy devices, and CT simulators, to accurately deliver radiation treatment to the target area while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.

RADIATION DELIVERY:

• Administer the prescribed radiation therapy according to the treatment plan while monitoring the equipment and the patient to ensure proper alignment, dose, and patient comfort while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
• Monitor the patient’s condition during treatment and make necessary adjustments to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety.

DOSIMETRY VERIFICATION:

• Verify and calibrate radiation therapy equipment to ensure accurate and safe treatment delivery.
• Verify that the radiation dose administered matches the prescribed dose, adjusting as necessary.

SAFETY PROTOCOLS:

• Follow strict safety protocols and adhere to radiation protection standards to minimize radiation exposure to patients and staff. This includes using lead shielding, measuring radiation output, and maintaining accurate treatment records.
• Monitor radiation dosage and keep accurate records of each patient’s treatment sessions.
• Ensure that safety measures are in place for the safe handling and disposal of radioactive materials.

DOCUMENTATION:

• Maintain accurate detailed patient records, including treatment plans, radiation dosage, schedules, and patient progress. This information is essential for tracking treatment effectiveness and for follow-up care.
• Document any observed side effects or adverse reactions to treatment.

QUALITY ASSURANCE:

• Conduct quality assurance tests to ensure the accuracy and safety of radiation therapy equipment and techniques.
• Participate in quality assurance and quality control procedures to ensure that equipment and treatment processes are functioning correctly and meeting established standards.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:

• Stay up-to-date with advancements in radiation therapy technology and treatment techniques through continuing education, training and professional development.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Radiation Therapy or a related field from recognized institution
• License to practice as a Radiation Therapy Technologist from the relevant regulatory authority.
• Strong knowledge of radiation therapy principles, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Knowledge of radiation safety protocols and best practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with patients and other healthcare professionals.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately under pressure.
• Compassion and empathy when working with patients.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a healthcare team.
• Physical stamina, as the job may require positioning and moving patients.
• Experience working in a clinical setting.
• Knowledge of current radiation therapy equipment and technologies.
• Research experience and a track record of publications.
• Leadership and project management skills.

The Aga Khan Health Service, Tanzania is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.