What does a radiation physicist do?
The
radiation physicist ensures the safety and proper operation of medical devices that use radiation sources. Experts usually work in hospitals, cancer centers, universities and special medical centers that provide radiological equipment for diagnosis and treatment of various conditions. Medical physicist produces frequent wheels in the radiation level tracking facilities, determines whether patients or healthcare workers are at risk of exposure and create effective safety procedures. Test devices such as X -ray machines and computer tomographic devices, and cancer treatment, such as linear particle accelerators, emit radiation that can be potentially harmful or fatal if administered incorrectly. The task of a qualified radiation physicist is to ensure that such equipment works properly and that patients, doctors and others are not overrexed by harmful radiation. The expert uses a sophisticated testing device to monitor emissions and sophisticated recommendationsread doses for patients. Physicists are often responsible for ensuring that the hospital complies with federal and local regulations concerning radiation exposure, preventive measures, emergency procedures and safety equipment. The professional can also lead training courses or seminars for other healthcare professionals to explain safe operational procedures of potentially dangerous facilities.
Requirements to become a radiation physicist differ according to location and employer, although most experts have at least a bachelor's degree in medical physics, radiation biology or similarly. Upon receipt of titles, most new physicists must work as technicians or assistants established by experts in the field for up to two years, gain practical experience and become familiar with practical aspects of work. Many countries require to be a potential radiation physicist to obtain Protoko certifiedlinging a specified number of practical training and passing a written examination. In the United States, certification is offered through the US Health Council.
Further education is usually considered to be very important for a practitioner. Experts often attend repetition courses and seminars to make sure they remain in the latest radiation research and equipment technology. With continuing education, time and proven skill, radiation physics can be able to proceed to the supervisory positions in the hospital. Some experienced physicists decide to work on private or university laboratory, carrying out independent research studies on various aspects of radiation and medical treatment.