## Radiation Therapist at WVU Medicine - United Hospital Center (UHC) ### Role Overview WVU Medicine is seeking a dedicated and skilled Radiation Therapist to join our team at United Hospital Center (UHC) in Bridgeport, West Virginia. As a Radiation Therapist, you will play a crucial role in delivering accurate and effective radiation therapy treatments to patients with cancer and other medical conditions. You will work closely with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, dosimetrists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the highest quality of patient care. This position requires a strong understanding of radiation therapy principles, anatomy, and patient care techniques. You will be responsible for administering radiation treatments, performing simulations, constructing immobilization devices, and educating patients about their treatment plans. Your attention to detail, technical expertise, and compassionate demeanor will be essential in providing a positive and supportive experience for our patients. ### A Day in the Life of a Radiation Therapist Each day as a Radiation Therapist at WVU Medicine UHC offers a blend of technical skill, patient interaction, and teamwork. Here's a glimpse into your daily routine: * **Patient Preparation:** You'll start your day by reviewing patient charts and treatment plans. You'll greet patients, explain the day's procedure, and answer any questions they may have. Ensuring patients are comfortable and informed is a top priority. * **Treatment Delivery:** Using state-of-the-art radiation therapy equipment, you'll administer prescribed doses of radiation, precisely targeting cancerous cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. You'll meticulously monitor equipment and patient responses throughout the treatment. * **Simulation and Planning:** Some days involve simulating new treatment plans. This includes using CT scans and other imaging techniques to map out the precise location and shape of tumors. You'll collaborate with dosimetrists and oncologists to develop optimal treatment strategies. * **Immobilization Device Creation:** You may construct custom immobilization devices to ensure patients remain in the correct position during treatment. This requires precision and attention to detail to maximize treatment accuracy. * **Patient Education and Support:** You'll provide ongoing education to patients and their families, explaining potential side effects and offering coping strategies. You'll be a source of comfort and encouragement throughout their treatment journey. * **Quality Assurance:** You'll participate in quality assurance checks to ensure equipment is functioning correctly and treatment protocols are being followed. This helps maintain the highest standards of safety and accuracy. * **Collaboration and Communication:** You'll work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Effective communication is essential for coordinating patient care. ### Why Bridgeport, West Virginia? Bridgeport, West Virginia, offers a welcoming community and a high quality of life. Nestled in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, Bridgeport provides access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The city boasts a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Bridgeport is conveniently located near major cities like Morgantown and Pittsburgh, offering access to big-city amenities while maintaining a small-town charm. The area's strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place to raise a family or build a career. WVU Medicine UHC is committed to supporting the Bridgeport community by providing advanced medical care and creating employment opportunities. As a Radiation Therapist at UHC, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients in the region. ### Career Path WVU Medicine is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees. A career path for a Radiation Therapist can lead to various opportunities for advancement: * **Senior Radiation Therapist:** With experience and expertise, you can advance to a senior role, taking on responsibilities such as mentoring new therapists, developing treatment protocols, and participating in research projects. * **Lead Radiation Therapist:** This leadership position involves overseeing the daily operations of the radiation therapy department, managing staff, and ensuring quality patient care. * **Dosimetrist:** Radiation Therapists can pursue further education and certification to become medical dosimetrists, who are responsible for creating detailed radiation treatment plans. * **Management Roles:** With additional education and experience, you can move into management roles within the oncology department or hospital administration. WVU Medicine offers continuing education opportunities and supports employees in their pursuit of advanced certifications and degrees. We are committed to helping you reach your full potential and achieve your career goals. ### Salary and Benefits WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The estimated salary range for a Radiation Therapist at UHC in Bridgeport, WV, is $70,000 to $95,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. (Salary information is an estimate and may vary based on market conditions and individual qualifications.) In addition to a competitive salary, WVU Medicine provides a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans. * **Paid Time Off:** Generous paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Retirement Savings:** 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions. * **Life Insurance:** Basic life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance. * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability insurance. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Tuition reimbursement program for continuing education and professional development. * **Employee Assistance Program:** Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families. ### WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to creating a culture of teamwork, respect, and excellence. We value our employees and provide a supportive and collaborative work environment. We encourage innovation and continuous improvement, and we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of patient care. We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. ### How to Apply To apply for the Radiation Therapist position at WVU Medicine UHC, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page. You will be directed to our online application system, where you can submit your resume, cover letter, and other required documents. We encourage you to highlight your experience, skills, and qualifications in your application. Please also explain why you are interested in working at WVU Medicine and how you can contribute to our team. We carefully review all applications and will contact qualified candidates for an interview. Thank you for your interest in joining the WVU Medicine team! ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What are the essential qualifications for this position?** * The essential qualifications include current licensure as a Radiation Therapist in West Virginia, ARRT certification in Radiation Therapy, and BLS certification. A background check is also required. 2. **What are the key responsibilities of a Radiation Therapist?** * Key responsibilities include administering radiation therapy treatments, performing simulations, constructing immobilization devices, educating patients, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals. 3. **What is the typical work schedule for a Radiation Therapist?** * The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend or evening hours as needed. 4. **What opportunities are there for professional development?** * WVU Medicine offers continuing education opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and support for advanced certifications and degrees. 5. **What is the culture like at WVU Medicine?** * WVU Medicine fosters a culture of teamwork, respect, and excellence. We value our employees and provide a supportive and collaborative work environment. 6. **What benefits are offered to employees?** * WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement savings, life insurance, and disability insurance. 7. **How do I apply for this position?** * To apply, click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and submit your resume, cover letter, and other required documents through our online application system. 8. **What is the salary range for this position?** * The estimated salary range is $70,000 to $95,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. (Salary information is an estimate and may vary.) 9. **What is the patient-to-therapist ratio?** * The patient-to-therapist ratio is typically around 8:1, allowing for quality personalized care for each patient. 10. **Is there any relocation assistance offered?** * Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. Please discuss this with the hiring manager during the interview process.