1. Consultation
Your physician reviews your records, examines you and explains whether radiation may be part of your care. The discussion includes the treatment goal, possible side effects and any additional tests that are needed.
2. Planning and mapping
Before treatment, the team maps the area to be treated, often using a planning scan. Positioning supports and skin marks may be used to help reproduce your setup. Your physician, physicist and dosimetrist work together on a personalized plan.
3. Treatment visits
Radiation therapists help you into position and deliver treatment according to the plan. Many treatment courses involve weekday appointments, but the schedule varies with the technique and diagnosis. The team checks positioning and monitors how you are doing.
4. Your care team
Radiation oncologists direct your treatment. Medical physicists and dosimetrists support safe dose planning and delivery. Radiation therapists deliver treatments, and nurses help with education and symptom management. Tell the team about new symptoms or concerns throughout your course.
Adapted from XRO patient and practice information. Your care team can explain how this information applies to you.