Radiation Therapy Programs in Washington

Washington Radiation Therapy – Benefits of Becoming a Radiation Therapist in Washington

As of 2008, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that radiation therapists made an average hourly salary of $37.18 per hour or $71,990 per year with a standard 40 hours per week worked. Washington is among the top 5 paying states for radiation therapists with an average annual salary of $89,420. Most radiation therapists work in a hospital or clinic setting although a small percentage of them may also be found working in doctor’s offices, military healthcare facilities, and universities. According to employment data, there are an estimated 15,570 radiation therapists currently working throughout the United States with a positive employment growth outlook.

A phlebotomist has a lot of responsibilities. Responsibilities include prescribing radiation treatments and exposure to radiation. Fortunately, advanced technology has improved the health of radiation therapists by minimizing exposure risks. To become a radiation therapist in Washington, you must complete an accredited radiation therapy program. Additionally, you must familiarize yourself with certain procedures, practices and concepts related to radiation therapy. In order to do this, it is recommended that you find programs that offer hands on experience. Once you become a radiation therapist, you may find yourself working under generalized supervision and reporting to a physician or facility manager.

You can prepare yourself for a career as a radiation therapist as early on as high school. Make sure you excel at certain courses such as mathematics and science classes including physics, chemistry, and biology. Some facilities may require you to have first aid certification before they will consider hiring you for a radiation therapy position. The length of the radiation therapy program will vary. However, it is highly recommended that students achieve full accreditation by completing either a 2 or 4-year degree program while paying careful attention to all of the necessary clinical and medical education components.

Employment opportunities for this position are usually found within major cities such as Seattle, Olympia, Bellingham, and Tacoma. As a radiation therapist, you will work with patients of varying ages and most likely those suffering some form of cancer. Familiarize yourself with various health and medical policies and make sure you are comfortably familiar with the technology you will have to use to offer radiation therapy treatment to patients. Becoming a radiation therapist in Washington is entirely possible as long as you follow the steps outlined above. The job itself can be a very rewarding one for anyone interested in the healthcare industry.

Radiation Therapy Schools Near You & Online in Washington

Bellevue College

  • 3000 Landerholm Circle SE Bellevue, WA 98007
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN, Sonography
    (425) 564-1000