Radiation therapists, also know as radiation therapy technologists, in Florida are radiological technology professionals and must have certification from the Florida Department of Health. Radiation therapists work under the supervision of oncologists to administer radiation to specific areas of patients' bodies as part of an overall treatment program. Radiation therapists are also responsible for equipment maintenance, assisting in treatment planning and handling radioactive materials used in treatment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for radiation therapists in Florida was $76,970 in 2009.
Instructions
1. Complete a radiation therapy program. You must finish a two-year radiation therapy program that is accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). These programs generally result in an associate degree. In your program, you will engage in classroom and laboratory study as well as clinical training. You will study subjects such as anatomy, physics and biology. Some programs may require that you already have college-level credits in anatomy and algebra before you begin the program. Contact the school where you plan to complete your program for details on entry requirements. You can find an accredited program locator on the ARRT website (see Resources).
2. Complete an HIV/AIDS course. These courses generally take four hours to complete and deal with Florida's HIV/AIDS laws. Find a list of course providers in Resources.
3. Submit a license application to the Florida Department of Health. You can download and print the application from the Florida Department of Health website (see Resources). On your application, you must provide information about your completed radiation therapy program and answer questions about your criminal background. You must also enclose proof of completion of your HIV/AIDS course, a copy of your radiation therapy program diploma and your $50 examination fee. Submit your completed application to the Florida Department of Health Radiologic Technology Certification Office.
4. Complete your examination. You must pass the ARRT Radiation Therapy examination to receive Florida certification. Once the Florida Department of Health has approved your application, it will send you information on when and where you can write your examination. The exam consists of 200 questions covering topics such as radiation protection, patient care and clinical concepts. It generally takes two weeks from the day you pass your exam for the Florida Department of Health to issue your radiation therapy license.
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