Will AI Replace Medical Dosimetrists?

Design the arrangement of radiation fields to reduce exposure to critical patient structures, such as organs, using computers, manuals, and guides.

information retrieval — Literature review aided; wet-lab and clinical research human

Plan the use of beam modifying devices, such as compensators, shields, and wedge filters, to ensure safe and effective delivery of radiation treatment.

physical manipulation — Hands-on medical equipment adjustment

Identify and outline bodily structures, using imaging procedures, such as x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, or positron emission tomography.

physical manipulation — Patient positioning and scanner operation hands-on

Calculate the delivery of radiation treatment, such as the amount or extent of radiation per session, based on the prescribed course of radiation therapy.

data analysis — Routine medical calculations; human checks inputs

Calculate, or verify calculations of, prescribed radiation doses.

data analysis — Routine medical calculations; human checks inputs

Develop radiation treatment plans in consultation with members of the radiation oncology team.

interpersonal — Coordination needs live negotiation and context

Supervise or perform simulations for tumor localizations, using imaging methods such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, or positron emission tomography scans.

interpersonal — Supervising clinicians requires accountability and live judgment

Create and transfer reference images and localization markers for treatment delivery, using image-guided radiation therapy.

physical manipulation — Processing requires physical handling of imaging media

Record patient information, such as radiation doses administered, in patient records.

data analysis — Maintain records; human owns clinical accuracy

Advise oncology team members on use of beam modifying or immobilization devices in radiation treatment plans.

decision support — Assistive device recommendations need client-specific assessment

Fabricate beam modifying devices, such as compensators, shields, and wedge filters.

physical manipulation — Medical device fabrication is physical manufacturing

Perform quality assurance system checks, such as calibrations, on treatment planning computers.

decision support — AI flags quality/safety issues; human owns physical verification

Fabricate patient immobilization devices, such as molds or casts, for radiation delivery.

physical manipulation — Fabricating assistive devices requires hands-on craft

Develop requirements for the use of patient immobilization devices and positioning aides, such as molds or casts, as part of treatment plans to ensure accurate delivery of radiation and comfort of patient.

decision support — Assistive device recommendations need client-specific assessment

Teach medical dosimetry, including its application, to students, radiation therapists, or residents.

interpersonal — Provider training is clinical, hands-on, accountable

Conduct radiation oncology-related research, such as improving computer treatment planning systems or developing new treatment devices.

information retrieval — Literature scanning aided; hands-on prototyping human

Develop treatment plans, and calculate doses for brachytherapy procedures.

data analysis — Routine medical calculations; human checks inputs

Measure the amount of radioactivity in patients or equipment, using radiation monitoring devices.

interpersonal — Collecting from patients requires live clinical interaction

Educate patients regarding treatment plans, physiological reactions to treatment, or post-treatment care.

decision support — Wellness advice needs tailoring and clinical accountability