At Houston Methodist, the Dosimetrist position is responsible for creating and documenting radiation treatment plans, determine treatment dimensions, and promoting the implementation of the treatment plans for radiation therapy patients. This position participates in the simulation, dose computations, treatment plans, immobilization and other aspects of treatment planning for patients receiving external beam radiation therapy. The Dosimetrist position has knowledge of the physical and geometric characteristics of the radiation delivery equipment and human anatomy as they relate to radiation therapy anatomy contouring.
PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS- Appropriately communicates to facilitate patient care in regards to treatment planning/including: the correct use of immobilization devices, compensators, wedges, field arrangement, and other treatment or imaging parameters.
- Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards department goals for retention and employee engagement.
- Uses open, professional (verbal, nonverbal, written) communication to achieve mutual understanding. Communication to promote both work efforts and problem resolution is clear and professional, providing the highest quality service during every customer and patient encounter.
SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS- Designs a treatment plan by means of computer and/or manual computation with optimal beam geometry to deliver a prescribed radiation dose and spare critical structures in accordance with the Radiation Oncologist's prescription. Identifies and contours normal and dose-limiting structures by utilizing images from one or more data sets. Assumes proficiency in image registration with various image data sets to include CT, MRI and PET.
- Creates and transfers reference images and localization markers for portal verification and treatment delivery to include DRRs, CBCTs and other IGRT methods, as specified. Performs calculations for the accurate delivery of the prescribed dose, document all pertinent information in the patient record, and verify the mathematical accuracy of all calculations by an approved method.
- Performs, or assists in simulations and tumor localization using specified imaging devices including, but not limited to CT, MRI, and PET. Perform, or assists in the planning and implementation of custom shields, wedges, and other beam modifying devices.
QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS- Provides assistance and technical support to the Medical Physicist, in radiation safety and protection, qualitative machine calibrations, quality assurance of treatment plans and radiation oncology equipment.
- Operates and performs quality assurance, under the direction of the Medical Physicist, on the treatment planning computer(s).
- Follows principles of radiation protection for patient, self and others. Follows safety standards and conducts all radiation therapy procedures accordingly. Maintains proper sterile techniques for procedures, regularly practices aseptic techniques, and ensures compliance with radiation safety and infection control procedures.
FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS- Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures, utilizing knowledge and understanding of Dosimetry-related charges and billing procedures. Enters, validates and reviews charges at the time service is delivered, as appropriate.
- Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Utilizes efficient and cost-effective work practices with department resources and supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.
GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS- Generates and communicates new ideas and suggestions that improve quality or service.
- Collaborates with Physics and Physicians for initial and ongoing treatment to advance Radiation Oncology, supports new protocols.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.
EDUCATION- Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certifications, Licenses and Registrations section
WORK EXPERIENCE
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED- CMD - Certified Medical Dosimetrist (MDCB)
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - PREFERRED- BLS - Basic Life Support (AHA)
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES- Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
- Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
- Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
- Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Radiation Oncology Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and exam documents
- Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers
- Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision including, organizing work flow and actively participating in problem-solving
SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ATTIRE
- Uniform Yes
- Scrubs Yes
- Business professional Yes
- Other (department approved) Yes
ON-CALL*
*Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. DIsaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.
TRAVEL**
**Travel specifications may vary by department**
- May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes
- May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area Yes
Company Profile:
Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital, scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025, will be Houston Methodist's ninth hospital and will incorporate the most advanced technology available from the day the doors open. With 100 beds (at our opening; licensed for 276) and a prime location in the heart of the rapidly growing U.S. 290 corridor, the hospital will be equipped with technologically advanced innovations implemented during COVID, many of them designed to make patient communication with physicians, staff and families the very best and most effective in any health care facility. Even though the hospital won't be fully operational until 2025, we have several services and specialties opening in 2024.
Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Equal employment opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Houston Methodist is firmly bound. Houston Methodist will not engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with Houston Methodist on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.
