Which specialist performs external beam radiotherapy?

The radiation oncologist assesses your diagnosis, chooses the treatment area and dose, and reviews your progress. A medical physicist checks the technical safety of the equipment and treatment plan. A dosimetrist helps calculate how radiation should be shaped around the target while limiting exposure to nearby organs. Radiation therapists position you and operate the treatment machine. Nurses help with education, symptoms, and practical support.

You may have a planning visit with imaging, measurements, and a position that can be reproduced at every session. Tell the team about implants, previous radiation, pregnancy, medicines, and skin problems. Keep the appointment instructions and report new symptoms during the course, since the team can adjust supportive care or review the plan when appropriate.

Contact the radiotherapy service for severe or rapidly worsening pain, trouble breathing or swallowing, repeated vomiting, confusion, a new weakness, or skin changes that become very painful or open. Urgent symptoms can relate to the treated body area or another medical problem and should not wait for the next scheduled review.

Ask who your main contact is, what the planning visit involves, how the beam will be directed, which side effects need same-day advice, and how progress will be reviewed.