What Does It Take to Become a Certified Dosimetrist?

[pmb_phy]

Any Medical Physicists here? I'm contemplating going back to school and get some coursework done in radiation physics to be applied toward a certification as a dosimetrist. Does anyone here know what that involves? I hear its a single one year course. Do you know what text is used? Thanks.

Pete

 

[imabug]

I don't know too many therapy physicists, but I would recommend looking up some therapy physicists and dosimetrists at some nearby teaching hospital. Start with calling up their radiation oncology department and see if you can talk to one of their physicists or chief dosimetrist. Tell them your interest and see if you can arrange to visit and speak with some of their dosimetrists. Your profile says you're in Boston, so MGH, Brigham & Womens or Harvard Med Center would be promising places to start. Most will be happy to offer you advice to get started.

American Association of Medical Dosimetrists
Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board
American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology

 

[piercas]

I am not a medical physicist myself, but I have worked closely with medical physicists in the past. I can provide some general information about the field and the certification process.

Medical physics is a specialized branch of physics that focuses on the application of physics principles to the field of medicine, particularly in the use of radiation for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Medical physicists play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective use of radiation in medical procedures.

To become a certified dosimetrist, you will need to complete a one-year program accredited by the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists (AAMD). This program typically includes coursework in radiation physics, radiation biology, and treatment planning. It may also involve clinical training and a final certification exam.

The specific textbooks used may vary depending on the program and institution. However, some common textbooks used in medical physics programs include "The Essential Physics of Medical Imaging" by Bushberg et al., "Radiation Oncology Physics: A Handbook for Teachers and Students" by Podgorsak et al., and "Introduction to Radiological Physics and Radiation Dosimetry" by Attix.

I would recommend reaching out to the AAMD or specific medical physics programs to get more information about the coursework and textbooks used in their programs. Best of luck in your pursuit of becoming a certified dosimetrist!