A radiation oncologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the use of radiant energy and its components in therapeutic procedures, as well as the study and treatment of diseases like cancer. Radiation therapy is a type of treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or relieve pain. The cancerous cells are unable to reproduce as a result of the radiation. Those doctors who decide to pursue a career as a radiation oncologist can also receive additional training in hospice and palliative medicine, which is an even more specialized field. The subspecialty is useful for those who want to prevent or reduce the suffering that terminally ill patients may experience.
Many types of cancer, especially those with malignant tumors, necessitate the services of a radiation oncologist. Radiation treatment necessitates the supervision of doctors who are well-versed in all aspects of the procedure and disease. A radiation oncologist will create a personalized cancer treatment plan for each patient. She will ensure that the treatment plan is carried out according to the prescription’s specifics after prescribing it.
A radiation oncologist can use radiation to treat cancer in a variety of ways. She can use a machine outside the patient’s body to generate the radiation, which is known as proton therapy or external beam radiation therapy. In the alternative, she can use brachytherapy, which uses radioactive and internal sources to deliver radiation therapy. Before deciding which method is best for the patient, each case must be carefully examined.
Patients who are receiving radiation therapy may experience side effects. In some cases, the side effects are minor, while in others, they are extremely severe. The radiation oncologist will keep an eye on the patient, try to spot any potential side effects, and then treat or prevent them from happening. The main concern is combating the disease in the patient while trying to keep side effects to a minimum.
A radiation oncologist usually works as part of a team with other doctors who are all focused on radiation oncology. Radiation oncology nurses and technicians, pathologists, and surgeons are examples of other team members. Each person has a specific role to play, and they have all been thoroughly educated and trained to perform their duties. A radiation oncologist must complete four years of undergraduate studies, four years of medical school, one year in a general medical residency program, and four years in a radiation oncology residency program.