We're offering a generous $7,500 sign-on bonus to welcome you to our team. Recognizing and valuing exceptional talent, we're eager to discuss the exciting details of this bonus during our interview process!
The Department of Radiation Oncology Main Campus is comprised of two hospital departments and one physician group: Brigham And Women's Hospital (BWH), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), and the Brigham and Women's Physicians Organization (BWPO).
The Lead Radiation Therapist is a professional Therapist who shares in the management of a specific care area, accepting responsibility and authority in direct collaboration with the Chief Radiation Therapist. The Lead Radiation Therapist will assume responsibility for specific activities related to maintaining the overall quality control of treatments, and the orientation, education and supervision of Senior and Staff Radiation Therapists in the Department of Radiation Oncology. Specific responsibilities include development of unit programs and departmental policies. These groups of activities will be delegated by the Chief Radiation Therapist and are in the categories of clinical responsibilities, administrative responsibilities, and general responsibilities. The purpose of this position is to promote the philosophy and goals of the Department of Radiation Oncology through leadership, management and the professional development of the Radiation Therapy staff.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
Clinical Responsibilities
1. Will be expected to perform radiotherapy on site at assigned department
a. Brigham And Women's Hospital
b. Dana Farber Cancer Institute
2. Responsible for daily patient care and education.
• Appropriately involves the patient and their family in care and care decisions.
• Maintains and demonstrates respect for patient confidentiality and modesty.
• Explains all treatment and imaging procedures.
• Arranges daily radiation treatment schedule.
• Attentive to patient needs and concerns by continuous monitoring of the patient's physical and physiological response and reactions to treatment and refer patient for appropriate management as needed.
Administers radiation therapy treatment accurately and safely, following departmental policy and procedure.
Positions and immobilizes patients according to the treatment plan and effectively evaluates images according to standard guidelines.
Demonstrates the ability to care for acute Inpatients.
Demonstrates the ability to care for pediatric patients, including pediatric patients requiring anesthesia.
7. Demonstrates appropriate knowledge of the principles of growth and development from all life stages, ranging from infancy to geriatric. In addition, s/he must possess the ability to assess patient relative data as deemed pertinent to age-specific needs and provide care as described in the department's policy and procedure manual.
8. Demonstrates an understanding of the patient functional mobility assessment tool and mobilizes patients using appropriate mechanical assistive devices, such as ceiling lifts and lateral transfer devices, during the provision of patient care.
Collaborates with care team members to resolve clinical problems.
• Resolves difficult set-ups and instructs staff members and students in this area.
10. Manages the triage of emergent cases, coordinates all on call activities with the on-call therapist and negotiates scheduling of patients with other care team members.
Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge and Skills
1. Demonstrates advanced knowledge for all procedures performed in assigned treatment area and participates and/or rotates, when requested, in one or more specialty areas and programs.
a. Procedures
o Align RT, including tattoo less workflows
o Stereotactic CNS
§ Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT)
§ Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
§ Complex stereo CNS cases - including Multi Met
o Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)
o Cardiac SBRT
o Total Marrow Lymph Irradiation (TMLI)
o Adaptive Radiotherapy, including contouring
o Craniospinal Radiotherapy
o Extremity/Sarcoma Radiotherapy
b. Specialty Rotations, will include these additional responsibilities
o Simulation
§ Demonstrates knowledge and ability to operate CT scanner and CT scanner software.
§ Demonstrates knowledge and ability to complete tasks in the Treatment planning software (Eclipse)
§ Demonstrates knowledge and ability to operate LAP Lasers
§ Explains simulation procedure, including the administration of permanent tattoos for set up purposes.
§ Assists and interacts with all departmental Radiation Therapists , demonstrating the ability to answer all questions and details pertaining to simulation to ensure quality treatment.
§ Demonstrates the ability to create immobilization devices, bolus, and accurately document set up instructions.
§ Demonstrates knowledge and ability to perform all aspects of both treatment and simulation. Assists treatment machines with difficult set ups.
§ Participates in the IV contrast program, including; Patient Screening, Peripheral IV placement, Injection of IV contrast agents via power injector.
§ Demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in use of IV contrast Power injectors
§ Administers Oral Contrast
§ Able to navigate and enter orders in the Hospital EMR (EPIC)
§ May be asked to participate in MR Simulation procedures.
§ Assists in scheduling/rescheduling appointments, as needed.
§ Assists other areas of the department during low volume periods.
§ Demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the use of Point of Care (POC) Testing via the i-STAT® analyzer for Creatinine results.
Radiation Therapists performing waived point of care (POC) testing. Requires at a minimum a high school diploma or equivalent as described in the Federal Register, 42 CFR, Subpart M 493.1403-1495. (addendum added 2/2019)
Radiation Therapists are responsible for obtaining blood specimens, performing creatinine tests using the i-STAT® analyzer, evaluating creatinine results as they are displayed by analyzer, downloading test results into the patients' medical record and verifying eGFR results prior to proceeding with contrast administration
o Total Body Irradiation (TBI)
§ Responsible for scheduling all BMT new start and daily treatment appointments according to BMT protocol.
§ Demonstrates knowledge of all back up procedures, including Linac based treatment delivery and Imaging.
§ Works directly with CO60, a radioactive source and has knowledge of all safety and emergency protocols.
§ Provides hospital holiday coverage if TBI cases are scheduled.
§ Assists other areas of the department during low volume periods.
o Brachytherapy
§ Demonstrates knowledge and ability to perform all brachytherapy procedures, including: GYN Brachytherapy, Surface Applicator Brachytherapy, HDR/LDR TRUS, all Brachytherapy simulations.
§ Provides coverage as needed for Brachy Procedures out of department: OR/AMIGO/MR Sim Coverage
§ Assists in prepping for anesthesia cases and room turnover, equipment changes and room cleaning.
§ Demonstrates knowledge of all brachytherapy tools and equipment.
§ Demonstrates knowledge in the operation of the HDR Microselectron.
§ Demonstrates the ability to perform, participate, and assist in Ultrasound guidance for procedures.
§ May be asked to assist with the direct preparation of radioactive sources.
§ Understands and practices protocols for sterile procedures.
§ Assists other areas of the department during low volume periods.
o MR Linac
§ Helps screen patients and equipment for MRI safety
§ Is Level II MRI certified
§ Assists in CT/ MR-LINAC simulations
§ Assists in Adaptive treatment planning including: Treatment Delivery, Air overrides, contouring.
Leads the therapist team in developing new and emerging techniques.
3. Strives for continuous improvement and practices standardization of techniques.
4. Responsible for the safe and accurate utilization of all aspects of the electronic medical record (EMR) and Record and Verify system.
• Demonstrates the ability to teach and assist others in the proper use of the system.
Possesses an advanced knowledge base and ability to accurately perform and teach all policy, procedure, and QA measures including New Start and Cone Down chart checks, weekly chart checks, scheduling, treatment procedures, image review guidelines, and billing procedures.
6. Manages team during equipment failures and notifies patients as well as all functional areas of the department.
7. Responsible for the appropriate utilization and staff compliance of the Quality Assurance (QA) program on assigned unit to encompass all aspects of treatment, treatment delivery and quality patient care.
• Performs daily QA measures to ensure proficient operation of all imaging and treatment equipment.
• Performs daily shutdown procedures.
• Accurately document treatment variances and inconsistencies using appropriate tools.
• Practices and instructs staff on the proper use of the QA program of the designated treatment unit.
• Utilizes correct procedure checklist as necessary for each procedure.
• Participate in and appropriately documents the Time Out procedure for all treatments delivery information.
• Maintains staff compliance and education on all departmental policies and procedures.
8. May be required to participate on the on-call team.
9. Other duties as assigned.
Administrative Responsibilities
Directly responsible for the efficient daily operation of the assigned clinical treatment or simulation area.
Coordinates the activities of the Senior and Staff Radiation Therapists to ensure safe and quality treatment delivery and maximum utilization of both equipment and personnel.
Works with Chief Radiation Therapist and the Quality Assurance Specialist to develop, revise, implement and maintain policies and procedures pertinent to treatment, simulation, new programs and personnel.
Assists Chief Radiation Therapist and Quality Assurance Specialist to assure therapist competence and compliance with mandatory annual competencies, including, but not limited to: Specific machine techniques and procedures, department policies and procedures, and other activities and techniques that arise as practices change.
Participates as needed in the departmental Quality Improvement (QI) committee.
• Assist with developing, collecting data and presenting QI initiatives pertinent to the departmental treatment and simulation activities.
As directed by Chief Radiation Therapist, demonstrates the ability to work with other departmental teams, including, but not limited to: physicians, nurses, physics, to efficiently problem solve and implement solutions around treatment planning/delivery problems.
Attends various departmental meetings, when requested.
Acts as resource to the Chief Radiation Therapist with all staff evaluations.
• New staff, probation period.
• Annual evaluations for current staff.
• Evaluates staff to appropriately retain and promote.
• Evaluation and remediation of staff that is not functioning independently.
Works with Chief Radiation Therapist to develop, document and execute comprehensive orientation plans for new therapy staff of designated work area.
Assists Chief Radiation Therapist in the recruitment and interview process of potential new staff candidates.
Works with Chief Radiation Therapist to ensure appropriate staffing at designated work area and provides direct coverage when necessary.
• Direct coverage may be necessary on weekends and holidays in certain circumstances.
• Coordinates and adapts to contingency plans, which are in response to variables which influence workload and/or schedule.
Coordinates with the Clinical Radiation Therapy Program Director, the clinical assignment, instruction, and evaluation of Radiation Therapy students.
• Responsible for the orientation of Radiation Therapy students.
• Responsible for student log-ins, competencies, and oral competency exams.
• Responsible for providing feedback for student evaluations.
Assumes Chief Radiation Therapist responsibilities in the absence of the Chief Radiation Therapist, when requested.
Other duties as assigned.
General
Maintains and demonstrates cooperation and responsiveness to all staff members.
• Works professionally and collaboratively with all members of the care team, including, Physicians, nurses, physics and dosimetry staff, medical assistants, practice assistance.
• Models appropriate professional behavior, such as, but not limited to: courtesy, respect, constructive assertiveness, effective listening.
• Utilizes professional problem solving and negotiation skills to manage conflict.
• Demonstrates ability to lead meetings, when requested, and support various departmental meetings.
Participates in professional activates by attending meetings, presenting at meetings, serving on committees, writing and/or presenting scientific papers.
4. Actively seeks management focused and career growth educational opportunities.
Works flexible shifts as directed by the Chief Radiation Therapist depending on patient volume and departmental needs.
• Coverage may be necessary on weekends and holidays in certain circumstances.
• Adapts to contingency plans, which are in response to variables which influence workload and/or schedule.
Rotates to other treatment areas as directed by the Chief Radiation Therapist.
7. May be required to travel to network satellite clinics as directed by the Chief Radiation Therapist.
Maintains active membership in professional organizations.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
High School Diploma or equivalent with certificate in Radiation Therapy or Associate's Degree in Radiation Therapy
Minimum of four (4) years of continuous clinical experience.
• Valid Massachusetts State License in Radiation Therapy
• Continued employment is contingent upon obtaining valid ARRT certification within 6 months of hire date
• Valid BLS certification
Preferred: Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy
Skills/Abilities/Competencies Required:
1. Must have proficient technical knowledge and skill set. This includes but is not limited to demonstrating efficient knowledge of all equipment operation, tools and procedures specific to assigned area. This also includes demonstrating the ability to effectively troubleshoot issues as they arise.
2. Ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal professional relationships with physicians, management, peers, patients, and their families.
3. Must convey a positive attitude and present a professional appearance.
4. Must have effective communication (both oral and written) skills sufficient to resolve conflicts, and relay information concisely to staff, patients, and other hospital personnel.
5. Must have sufficient organizational skills.
6. Demonstrate strong customer service skills, including the ability to use appropriate judgment, independent thinking and creativity when resolving issues and conflict.
7. Demonstrate initiative and the ability to work independently.
8. Demonstrate the ability and flexibility to effectively handle challenging and stressful situations and to balance and shift multiple priorities.
9. Must have the ability to adapt to frequent interruptions and shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
10. Must have interpersonal skills sufficient to interact effectively with patients who may be under physical and/or emotional stress.
11. Must have to ability to handle sensitive and confidential patient information.
12. Must be proficient in the use of the Radiation Oncology Information Systems and software and Hospital Information Systems that integrate with the Department of Radiation Oncology, including, but not limited to: ARIA, EPIC, ExacTrac, Eclipse, Align RT, Ethos.
Working Conditions:
1. Must be prepared to work overtime, holidays and weekends, as needed.
2. Must be prepared to work and excel in a stressful, complex, and demanding team environment with varying workload, necessitating varying working hours.
3. Works with ionizing radiation, radioactive isotopes, MR, computers, cancer patients, both adults and children, and their families.
4. Exposure to human waste and disease.
5. Physical demands include but not limited to:
• Lifting and repositioning patients, using mechanical assistive devices.
• Lifting and positioning immobilization devices and beam modifying devices.
• Continuous standing.
6. Subject to frequent stressful situations.
Hospital Wide Responsibilities:
Works within legal, regulatory, accreditation and ethical practice standards relevant to the position and as established by BWH/MGB; follows safe practices required for the position; complies with appropriate BWH and Partners policies and procedures; fulfills any training required by BWH and/or Partners, as appropriate; brings potential matters of non-compliance to the attention of the supervisor or other appropriate hospital staff.
EEO Statement
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
