Become a Radiation Oncologist
Radiation oncologists are medical practitioners who focus on the treatment of tumors. The physicians use therapies to isolate and shrink cancerous cells. To be a successful radiation oncologist, it is important that you understand read two- and three-dimensional images, the impact of radiation on chemotherapy and when simple or aggressive treatments are needed. With the proper training and certification you can enjoy a rewarding medical career that helps to extend lives.
Instructions
Complete Training and Get Certified
1. Get a post-secondary education. Enroll at an accredited college or university (see Resources). Select schools that have strong medical programs. Gain a bachelor's degree. Keep in mind that some graduate medical schools prefer a bachelor of science over a bachelor of arts degree. If you are still in high school and want to become a radiation oncologist, it is important that you take several advanced math and science courses.
2. Complete a four-year medical program at a graduate school (see resources). Consider specialized training at schools such Dartmouth, Robert Wood Johnson, Johns Hopkins University, Stony Brook or Peninsula. Finish core areas of study including radiation and clinical rotations. Keep in mind that some programs have an enrollment deadline. Check with the school you are interested in attending to be sure you apply for admission on time. Attend academic conferences offered by regional and national medical societies such as The International Conference on Advances in Radiation Oncology and the Toronto Radiation Medicine Conference.
3. Apply for certification through the American Board of Radiology (see Resources). Schedule your test through the board and pay applicable fees. Pass the written and oral examinations. Certification is valid for 10 years. Remember to apply to the Board for the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) examination prior to the expiration of your current certification.
4. Network with former classmates, professors and hospital administers where you completed your clinical rotation. Create an account on LinkedIn. Add contacts to your electronic network. Use companies such as Hoovers and Dunn & Bradstreet to research hospitals, clinics and medical organizations you are interested in working with. Set aside a minimum of 1 hour a day to network. Search job boards such as MedHunters, MedZilla, Health Career Web and Medical Workers. Look through medical association job listings at organizations like the American College of Radiation Oncology, American Medical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association. Check your local newspaper for available radiation oncologist positions. Keep in mind that as a certified professional, networking may prove to be your best avenue toward gaining the employment you are seeking. Write an effective resume that highlights your certifications, internships and other medical and imaging work experience. If you are seeking employment at a civilian hospital or clinic and have worked in the military as a radiation technician, check with your personnel manager about related job openings in the civilian sector prior to being discharged from the military.
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