Recently I got a mail from a doctor who cleared AIPGME and wanted to join MD Radiotherapy. He asked me certain questions. I decided to write my opinion regarding the new and evolving world of Radiation Oncology. I hope I am able to help some of my readers. Feed back and suggestions are welcome and I am sure everyone’s feedback will definitely help the readers.
What is Radiation Oncologist/ Radiation Therapist?
A radiotherapist / radiation oncologist is a specialist who deals with treatment of cancer patients mainly with the use of different modalities of radiation. The treatment of cancer is a multimodality comprehensive treatment with surgical oncology, radiation oncology and medical oncology being integral part of it.
What is the primary work of a radiation oncologist/ radiotherapist?
The role of a radiation oncologist begins from the time the patient enters the cancer hospital. Starting from clinical examination, investigation, making a diagnosis and deciding the treatment options in close discussion with the medical and surgical oncologist.
A patient who is decided to be treated with radiation therapy then the radiation oncologist is involved in immobilization, scanning i.e. CT, PET CT, and MRI etc. After the scan are done it is the responsibility of radiation oncologist to register or fuse the images and draw the contours i.e the organs to be treated with the possible areas of spread and the organs at risk (Organs that needs to be saved from ill effects of radiation).
The Radiation Oncologist has to be well versed with reading of CT, MRI and PET CT. After finalising the contours then the radiation planning is done by the radiation physicists and it has to be approved by the radiation oncologist before implementation. During the treatment it is again the responsibility of the radiation oncologist to verify the accuracy of treatment delivery with the help of OBI (On board imaging), CBCT (Cone beam CT), EPID (Electronic portal imaging device).
Cancer cell
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Well that’s not enough again we have to evaluate the response to treatment, managing the side effects of radiation etc. Finally comes the follow up. In fact again we have to deal with the relapse, residual disease and treatment failure also.
What is the curriculum of MD Radiotherapy?
This is completely a different ball game as we are not exposed to this field in our undergarduate. The subjects involved are Radiation Physics, Radiobiology, Radiation oncology, Chemotherapy and future trends. As this is the most evolving subject the recent trend involves the newer techniques and also newer chemotherapy drugs. During the practice one has to be very much well versed with use of computer, radiological knowledge etc.
Is the radiation oncologist exposed to radiation?
No the exposure is minimal as there is always a barrier between the radiation room and the monitoring room. All the cancer centers are built with the specific guidelines of radiation safety hence there is no chance of being exposed to radiation. Every person who works in the radiation zone is provided with a TLD badge which is sent to the authorities every three months and I have not seen anyone whose exposure is beyond permissible level.
What are the best institutes in India providing MD Radiotherapy?
Tata Memorial Hospital Mumbai is the best institute in India considering the technology, academics, and research. It is followed by SGPGI lucknow, PGI Chandigarh, AIIMS,KMC Manipal, CMC Vellore etc. Apart from these institutes very few govt. institutes are equipped with advanced technologies of radiation oncology. Hence anyone deciding on joining a particular college should try to speak with the senior of the same college and then decide.
What are the future prospects of MD Radiotherapy?
After completing MD it is always advisable to do senior residency in a good institute at least for two years may be more would be beneficial. After that may join the different cancer hospitals as consultant or junior consultant depending on the place and institute of choice. The only problem is it is difficult to find a cancer hospital at our desired place.
What is the prospect to go abroad after MD Radiotherapy?
In order to go to USA it is mandatory to pass US MLE. If u pass also it is very difficult to get radiation oncology in US as it one of the most demanded subjects. Short fellowships like 1 month to year may be possible with the help of a funding source. In Canada they allow for fellowship for 1 year and which may be extended further. To practice in Canada also need to pass an exam. My concept is if we can earn and have a comfortable living in our country why go to other country. But short fellowships to those places are also very important as it affects our outlook and practice.
What is the financial prospect after MD Radiotherapy?
Well the big question, Money. I feel the income is decent from radiation oncology and is comfortable with morning to evening job without emergency etc. many radiation oncologists also practice chemotherapy which definitely is a boon.
The subject of oncology especially radiation is the most evolving subject of medicine. As one of my doctor patient said it is one of the most skilled medical subject.
“We hold the hand of the patient when every other doctor leaves him/her.”
The smile of the patient when he leaves the clinic after the traumatic news of having cancer gives me immense happiness and confidence to serve the mankind.
In order to know more information on radiation oncology Indian scenario plz log in to http://isocenter.org/
Related articles
- Radiotherapy: An Insight https://drsumandas.com/radiation-oncology-radiotherapy/radiotherapy-an-insight/
- http://www.hindustantimes.com/hteducation/greatcareers/want–to-be-an-oncologist-here-s-help/article1-524897.aspx
135 Comments
Isocentre.Administrator
March 17, 2012Thanks for the interesting write up on this topic suman. For prospective / new MD RT students we have an exclusive community of oncologists at http://isocenter.org
There are lots of resources educational and otherwise for new MD RT students and wannabe rad oncs. We have had a good discussion on this topic there too.
Dr Suman Das
March 17, 2012isocenter.org is a very informative website in fact its a web forum for the radiation oncologists of the world. It can be very informative for aspiring students.
vijay
October 13, 2013is dis blog alive now
Dr Suman Das
October 13, 2013Very much active.
Dr Deepika Malik
December 11, 2013Thanx for sharing invaluable knowledge about radiotherapy… Sir, I have realised during 1 year of my rural service that I am more comfortable with a 9-5 job rather than having to attend emergencies..My 1st preference is M.D. Skin.. if that is taken up by my rank… then i wil hv the option of all other faculties- medicine, surgery, gynae, paeds.. and anyone would be happy to take these up… but Sir, i want an end branch which would not mandate me to do a D.M. post that. Sir I will have the option of choosing MD radiotherapy at MGIMS Sewagram and I want to pursue that.. but people close to me are suggesting that when I have a rank which can can buy me such desirable fields, why should I take up a branch which is taken up by people with not so good rank..
Sir, this is why I have messaged you. You, with your experience can help me decide.. Would it be good for me if i take up radiotherapy… how are its future prospects…. I dont want to regret my decision later in my life…
Waiting for a reply.. please do reply
Dr Suman Das
December 17, 2013dear Dr deepika
Presently the radiation oncology prospects are good but dont know about the future cant predict.New centers are coming up and the no of students are also increasing as DNB course is also started in many institutes. The demerit or limitation of radiation oncology is that you may not find a job in your desired place as it is completely institutional practise. U may have to take tough descisions like staying away from yourr family etc.
arunangshu
March 17, 2012sumanda…………can u plz tell me about jobs after passing out……….is there a suply-demand discrepancy in hospitals?some seniors threatened me actually!
Dr Suman Das
March 17, 2012Dear Arunangshu
Its a question whose answer may differ as per the person. Well it is very difficult to compare it with Medicine or paediatrics where they can start practise anywhere. We definitely need a cancer center but due to very high investment it is not frequently seen like a polyclinic. It is very difficult to find a job in our desired place. Yet new centers are coming up and where we have ample of scope and boss never to forget “Survival of the fittest”.
I am still putting this one isocenter u may visit the website to know opinion of other radiation oncologists
Thanx
Venkatesan
March 18, 2012thank for ur kind information sir…..planning to take MD radiotherapy in MMC,chennai…
will it b a good option?
Dr Suman Das
March 18, 2012As a subject its good in my view. About the college i dont have any idea plz speak to a senior belonging to the same college.
U may visit our group website isocenter.org for more information regarding the college.
Thanx
Anonymous
March 18, 2012Very nice & well-balanced article. Well written.
Dr Suman Das
March 18, 2012Thanx Boss.
Subramanya K. Betageri
March 19, 2012Dear Dr. Das,
Your blogs are very informative and enlightening. But however, I would like to draw your attention on one of the changing aspects in terms of professional title Radiation Therapist/Radiotherapist. In this part of the globe where I live and work Radiation Therapist is no more a Radiation Oncology Physician. In USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore; Registered Medical Radiation Technologists are officially called Radiation Therapists. Radiation Oncology Physicians are called Radiation Oncologists. I agree that up to very recently in UK they were using the title Radiotherapist for Radiotherapy Physician as you know that term was coined in the UK in the earlier days. But, However, now all Radiotherapists are Clinical Oncologists as designated by The Royal college of Radiology. Now, Radiotherapist title is informally used by Therapeutic Radiographers in the UK and also in Ireland. I am just documenting further information below.
The Radiation Therapist (or Therapeutic Radiographer (esp. UK), or Radiotherapist) is an allied health professional who works in the field of radiation oncology. Radiation therapists plan and administer radiation treatments to cancer patients in most Western countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, most European countries, and Canada where the minimum education requirement is often a baccalaureate degree or postgraduate degrees in Radiation Therapy. Radiation therapists (with Master’s and Doctoral degrees) can also prescribe medications and radiation, interpret tests results, perform follow ups, reviews, and provide consultations to cancer patients in the United Kingdom and Ontario, Canada (possibly in Australia in the future as well). In the United States, radiation therapists have a lower educational requirement (minimum an associate degree of arts even though many graduate with bachelor’s degrees) and often require postgraduate education and certification (CMD, Certified Medical Dosimetrist) in order to plan treatments.
Contents
1 Roles & Responsibilities
1.1 United Kingdom
1.2 Canada
2 Qualifications & Registration
2.1 Canada
2.2 United Kingdom
2.3 United States
2.4 Australia & New Zealand
3 Salary
4 See also
Roles & Responsibilities
Radiation therapists use advanced computer systems to operate sophisticated radiation therapy equipments such as Linear Accelerators. The therapist works closely with the Radiation oncologists, Medical Physicists and other members of the health care team. They effectively design and treat the course of radiation treatment, in addition to managing the patient’s well-being. Radiation Therapists primarily treat cancer although other disorders and conditions can be managed through the care of radiation therapists. After the radiation oncologist has consulted with the patient and a decision has been reached that the application of radiation will benefit the patient, it then becomes the radiation therapist’s responsibility to interpret the prescription and develop a treatment plan for treatment delivery. The process of producing the final plan rests with a group of specialized radiation therapists called dosimetrists.
Since the course of radiation therapy can extend over several weeks, the radiation therapist is responsible for monitoring the condition of the patient and is required to assess if changes to the treatment plan are required. This is accomplished through patient re-positioning, dose calculations or other specialized methods to compensate for the changes. The therapist is responsible for quality assurance of the radiation treatment. This involves acquiring and recording all parameters needed to deliver the treatment accurately. The therapist ensures that the treatment set-up is correctly administered. The therapist takes imaging studies of the targeted treatment area and reproduces the patient positioning and plan parameters daily. The therapist is responsible for the accuracy of the treatment and uses his/her judgment to ensure quality with regard to all aspects of treatment delivery. During the course of radiation treatment, the patient will most likely develop certain side effects. In such situations, the therapists will communicate these side effects with the radiation oncologist, who may adjust treatment or give medications. Radiation therapists & medical dosimetrists (in many countries these two professions are often indistinguishable, e.g., Canada, Australia, UK) have a training in gross anatomy, physiology, radiation protection, and medical physics. They are highly skilled, highly regarded health care professionals who are integral members of the cancer care team. Radiation therapists call upon their judgment to either continue or cease radiation treatment and ensure patient safety at all times and are regulated by a governing body within their jurisdiction.
United Kingdom
Therapeutic radiographers play a vital role in the treatment of cancer as the only health professionals’ qualified to plan and deliver radiotherapy. Radiotherapy is used either on its own or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy. They manage the patient pathway through the many radiotherapy processes, as outlined below, providing care and support for patients throughout their radiotherapy treatment.
Therapeutic radiographers are trained in all the many aspects of radiotherapy including:
Simulation – using specialist x-ray fluoroscopy machines to target the area to be treated whilst minimising the amount of exposure to surrounding healthy tissue;
CT/MR Simulation – producing scans to be used for the planning of a course of radiotherapy;
Computer planning – producing a 3D plan of the dose distribution across the area to be treated;
External beam treatment – using ionising radiation, such as high-energy x-rays, the radiographer delivers accurate doses of radiation to the tumour;
Mould Room – radiographers and technicians in the Mould Room produce immobilisation/beam attenuation devises for those receiving radiotherapy to the head or neck, as well as other custom devices for a patients treatment;
Brachytherapy – the use of small radioactive sources placed on or in tumors to treat to a high dose while avoiding normal tissues;
On treatment review – radiation therapists regularly assess patients while they are undergoing radiotherapy, prescribing drugs to counteract side effects where necessary or referring them on to other health professionals if needed.*[1]
Canada
Specialist radiation therapists in Ontario are given with prescription rights. Some of the roles of the CSRT (Clinical Specialists Radiation Therapist) include pain management specialists, mycosis fungoides specialists, palliative care specialists, planning image definition and contouring specialist etc.*[2]
Qualifications & Registration
Canada
In Canada, most radiation therapy programs are second entry and the majority of the students have had at least one full year of university courses before entering the programs (many have finished a science or physics degree). In Ontario, a BSRT (Bachelor of Science Radiation Therapy) is being offered at the University of Toronto and Laurentian University, and a BMRSc (Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science) in Radiation Therapy is being offered at McMaster University. In British Columbia, British Columbia Institute of Technology offers a BT (Bachelor of Technology) in Radiation Therapy. In Manitoba, the University of Winnipeg is offering a BSc Physics (Radiation Therapy). And in New Brunswick, the University of New Brunswick offers a BHSc (Bachelor of Health Science) in Radiation Therapy. The first Master of Health Science (Radiation Therapy) in Canada is being offered at the University of Toronto, which prepares practitioners for advanced roles in the radiation therapy clinic.
In Canada, there is no real distinction between Radiation Therapists and Medical Dosimetrists. The title “treatment planner”, or just “planner” commonly replaces “dosimetrist”. Dosimetrists are commonly radiation therapists with several years of experience and have undergone in-house training. The national professional association has recently introduced a Dosimetry Specialty Certificate program to address the fact there is no specific credential (DSp). Many employers recognize the Certified Medical Dosimetrist qualification from the US (Certified Medical Dosimetrist, CMD), but neither are required for practice.
[edit] United Kingdom
In the UK a BSc in Therapeutic Radiography must be undertaken prior to registration by the UK regulatory authority, the Health Professions Council. UK radiographers are eligible for membership of the Society & College of Radiographers.
Graduate studies at the Masters(Master of Science in Therapeutic Radiography) are also available. Graduates from such programs are seen as advanced practitioners and consultant practitioners and are able to perform many duties which are previously done by physicians. Some radiotherapists proceed to gain their full Master’s and Doctoral degrees to work as Consultant Radiotherapists in the UK.
United States
Minimum Education requirement is an associate degree of science, some programs offer bachelor or master’s degree of science. In addition there are also alternate pathways to becoming a Radiation therapist in the form of secondary degrees, that result in certification. These certifications are one year programs that result in a certificate, but you must first have a former degree in another field, such as radiologic technologist.
[edit] Australia & New Zealand
A baccalaureate degree in radiation therapy is required in order to register and practice. In Australia, radiation therapists are often being addressed as “Medical Radiation Practitioners” or “Medical radiation scientists”*[3][4][5].
Salary
In 2008, the mean annual wage of radiation therapists in the United States was $78,290 according to the National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates from the United States Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics[6].
According to ASRT’s national wage survey done in 2003[7], the state that had the highest mean income for radiation therapists was New Mexico($120,250), followed by Arkansas ($109,000). The states which had the lowest average pays were Texas ($57,500) and Rhode Island ($58,400).
The average salary of American board certified medical dosimetrists is well over $100,000 according to the AAMD salary report. The typical salary range is from $90,000 (South) to $130,000 (West coast).
In Canada, the hourly wage of radiation therapists from unionized and non-unionized cancer centers range from 31-38$ an hour to start to up to 56$ an hour for senior treatment planning therapists (dosimetrists) and senior radiation therapists, or an annual base wage of $62,000~$74,000 – $110,000[8].
Dr Suman Das
March 19, 2012Thanx Dr Subramaniyam
For nice elaborate response. In india though we call as Radiation Oncologist but still the Degree provided to us by the medical council of India is MD Radiotherapy.
The reason why i have coined the term in my Blog is my readers mainly those who are aspiring to join are not that aware about the term radiation oncology.
Thanx for the update.
Anonymous
March 20, 2012I understand and I agree with you Dr. Das.
piyush
March 23, 2012can we opt for DM oncolgy aftr md radiotherapy.
Dr Suman Das
March 23, 2012Dear Piyush.
First let me clarify DM Medical Oncology u mean. Our brach is called Radiation Oncology and the other one is Surgical Oncology which form integral part of the cancer treatment.
Few institutes like TMH Mumbai, Kidwai offer DM medical oncology where MD radiation oncology is also eligible. If i honestly say not many people prefer to go for Medical oncology after completing MD.
Thanx
piyush
March 23, 2012sir will u plz tell me sumthing about scope of this branch in foreign nations,except uk or usa where we hav to pass certain exams.and wat r d salary pacakages we r supposed to get in our country.
Dr Suman Das
March 24, 2012Dear Piyush
U can see the comment by Dr Subramanium (Just Scroll Down in comments to the post) u can get good information on your queries like scope in other countries or salary packages etc
Thanx
ankur attri
April 30, 2012sir , is it wise to choose radiotherapy as a proffession , when u have options like radiodiagnosis , ortho, paeds …..
and if i waana do radiotherapy then how is safdarzung hospital,delhi
regarding this .. plzzz help sir…
Dr Suman Das
April 30, 2012Dear Ankur,
It all depends on your choice u may choose any subject, remember u r going to be with it life long. About Safdarjang Hospital i am not sure, As far as i know they have cobalt and u will not have much exposure of the advanced technologies during PG. U have to go to a better center after PG to do senior residency. I am not convinced about your college choice. If u r doing Radiation Oncology ( Radiotherapy) better do in a good center like TMH where u can learn everything during PG. For more information u may log in to our group website http://www.isocenter.org.
Thanx
mary
May 3, 2012thanks for the information..it was very helpfull..
i plan to take MD RT at cmc ludhiana…will u plz give ur valuable opinion abt the college ??
is there any added radiation risk for females?? some of my seniors are telling me its not a good field for girls..and there is a lot of health hazard in it… plz help me out , sir..
thanks in advance
Dr Suman Das
May 3, 2012Hi Sherin,
Thanx for the appreciation. Coming to your questions
1. CMC Ludhiana: No idea plz try to find out a person doing MD in the college who can tell u about the set up, Academics etc. In MD RT most govt institutes in India are equipped with cobalt machine and in order to cope with the latest technologies u have to do Senior residency in any good institute. U may place an opinion poll or blog entry in isocenter.org and i am sure there some one from cmc ludhiana will help u.
2. There is no risk for ladies. Infact there is no exposure to radiation be assured. There is no health hazard.
mary
May 6, 2012thanks so much sir….
Dr Suman Das
May 6, 2012Mention Not Sherin
Ajay Gv
May 30, 2012this is ajay … i have taken MDRT in Kidwai bangalore… i need to know the oppournities down the lane in 3 to 4 years from now sir:) thanks
Dr Suman Das
May 30, 2012Hi Ajay
Congratulation and welcome to the world of radiation oncology. Well opportunity in terms of job is good. May be it will be difficult to settle in your home town. Kidwai is a very good inst, u will get good guidance from seniors. Thanx
Dr.sajna
June 13, 2013Hai,i am sajna and i joined md radiotherapy in kidwai institute…plz give me information abt this subject and how is our institute is it good in mdrt…
Dr Suman Das
June 13, 2013Congratulations.
Subject: In my view its better than conventional subjects like med, surg,obg. It is evolving every passing time and there is scope for growth every time.
I am sorry i dont have any idea about kidwai radiotherapy dept.
Koustav Majumder
June 14, 2012Sir, I have got MDRT this year in Medical College, Kolkata.. I have already done Diploma in RT. IF I opt for the MD course in 2 years den would be any problem in future regarding getting SR ship or doing amy fellowship??
Dr Suman Das
June 14, 2012Hi kaustuv
Congrats for completing diploma and and also joining MD. Not many people in India now hold the degree of DA and MD in radiation oncology. I dont think u will have any problem in getting through residency any where. Dont think negatively u will have bright future.
Thanx Suman
koustav
June 15, 2012thank you sir for boosting me up….ll keep in youch wid u..
Dr A A Malloum
August 7, 2012Thank u very much for the silent information about Radiation Oncology. I am young Africa graduate ,who developed an interest for MD in Radiation Oncology in india or otherwise please help on contact etc.
Dr Suman Das
August 7, 2012Dear friend
I will surely guide u plz let me know what exactly u want to know.
Thanx
chinnu
September 19, 2012i have joined dnb in radiotherapy in hyderabad…..i just wanted to know job prospects after dnb
Dr Suman Das
September 19, 2012Dear chinu
its gr8 u have joined DNB. well after completing the course u can do senior residency in a good institute like TMH and then u can join as consultant in any cancer hospital.As many new cancer hospitals are coming up i feel there is no problem regarding job opportunity. Its like a demand supply relation ship. The problem may be u may not get a job at your preffered location.
thanx
Sharif Ahmed
October 10, 2012dear dr. das,
i am from Dhaka, Bangladesh.
I have just completed M.Phil in Radiotherapy from BSM Medical university.
I want to study in MD radiotherapy in india.
can you please inform me which institute i can admit and admission procedure? do foreign student admission test or any kind of exsumption from entrance test ?
waiting for reply
AMOL UBALE
December 18, 2012Hello sir,
i have completed my MD RT and joined as Assist prof in med collg maharashtra.i am planning to prepare for DM ONCO.what would u suggest me??? should i go for it or not….ur opinion.
Dr Suman Das
December 19, 2012Dear Amol Its up to u.In India radiation oncologists can practice chemotherapy for solid tumors infact they do in most of the institutes. In DM u r going to learn more about hematological malignancy other wise about solid tumors u have studied in your MD. To me honestly hematological malignancy are not that encouraging. Still u can take a call thanx
Abovescore
January 25, 2013Sir,Thanks for the valuable information.Could you pls tell me something regarding FRCR?how tough is it and how is the career opportunities after FRCR?I am a DMRT candidate.Will be able to give FRCR?
Dr Suman Das
January 25, 2013Dear rahul thanx for your appreciation. Well about frcr I can give u the link plz log in to isocenter and go through the following article by Dr nileshh.
Thanks
https://isocenter.org//content/frcr-recognized-post-graduate-degree-india
nitin
March 28, 2013what are the pros and cons of doing a dm medical oncology after md radiotherapy
arun
April 13, 2013suman sir im very much obliged to u for the wonderful post,
im from tamilnadu .. can u plz tell me how can i get an mdrt seat in tata memorial?
wat is the mode of admission?
thanks in advance
sam
May 6, 2013Dear Dr Suman Das
Thank you for the blog. It is very informative.
I am an Indian doctor working in New Zealand & planning to apply to for radiation oncology .
Dr Suman Das
May 6, 2013Thanx Sam for your appreciation and all the best. Hope u get through the exams in flying colours.
Shina
May 15, 2013Sir a very informative blog.. answered al the ques I had about radiotherapy.. but der is one thing I want to ask .Sir I have been called for dmrt ie diploma radiotherapy interview at cmc vellore.. I am confused whether I should go for it or not because it is a diploma programme.sir plz help..is it worth it ?
Dr Suman Das
May 16, 2013Thanks Shina
Congratulations for being called from CMC vellore. In radiation oncology its a very good institute and as far as i know it is as par with TMH mumbai. If u choose for DMRT plz be prepared to do DNB or MD after that. Just inquire the vellore people may consider u for Md after DNB.
anuj
May 17, 2013Sir very nice and informative blog..how is kidwai memorial Bangalore for me radiotherapy? Looking for quick reply as counselling within a week..thanks sir
Dr Suman Das
May 17, 2013Honestly speaking no idea about radiation dept. The medical oncology is good there. I can not give any opinion on radiation dept. Sorry yar.
Anonymous
August 23, 2013Hello
Anuj,
did you pick RT from kidwai?
Dr Suman Das
August 29, 2013Sorry Anuj No IDEA Sir JI
themadlover
May 23, 2013Sir any idea how MD-RT is in M.S Ramaiyya medical institute????Bangalore???I have chances of getting that seat through KCET..Sir can you tell me whether its worth taking it up there???
Dr Suman Das
May 23, 2013Sorry i personally don’t have any idea about MS Ramaiah inst. My friend Rishi had done from there u can call him 09900101471.thanx
Confusedoc
May 24, 2013Sir, congrats for an wonderful blog. Atleast it has made people like me think about radiation oncology as a career .
To be honest i’m totally confused on what subject to take . My options are Anaesthesia/surgery/obg or Radiation Oncology ?
My questions are ;
1)will taking MdRT will be a gamble for which i may have to repent in future ?
2) since i’m not lucky enough to study institutions you’ve mentioned , what is it that i should be seeing in a private or government set up for seeking a PG degree in MDRT?
3) since the subject oncology’s so vast, will a MD degree make me a master in my field or i will have to work more to gain experience?
4) How many consultant Radiation Oncologists are required per set up? Since the number of MDRT and DNB RT degree holders rising, will there be a chance of saturation and many remaining un employed ?
Dr Suman Das
May 24, 2013Dear Prajwal,
Thanks for the appreciation.I have tried to give some information regarding the less known subject.
1)will taking MdRT will be a gamble for which i may have to repent in future ?
Ans: Its a tough question as i cant predict the future for u. Its not a gamble and in fact a good subject but it will be tough for u to plan your practice at your own place or desired place.
Oncology is completely institutional practice and the institutes also need lot of investment for the set up. Its up to u how u perform as at present few are doing gr8 and few are also doing very bad.I will say if u r joining any where u have to plan for a fellowship or residency in a highvolume center so as to practice with confidence and scientific way.
2 since i’m not lucky enough to study institutions you’ve mentioned , what is it that i should be seeing in a private or government set up for seeking a PG degree in MDRT?
If u r joining a private institute or govt inst plz inquire about the technology they have and the academics. Talk to the senior PG students or preferably passed out students about the institute. But be focused to join centers like TMH after MD and Learn.
3) since the subject oncology’s so vast, will a MD degree make me a master in my field or i will have to work more to gain experience?
Ya true subject of oncology is vast and it need a lot to know. But u will practise either radiation oncology or medical oncology. If u have less practice in radiation u may practice chemotherapy for solid tumors. U need to master the art of treating cancer pts so i dont think this is a valid or genuine question.
4) How many consultant Radiation Oncologists are required per set up? Since the number of MDRT and DNB RT degree holders rising, will there be a chance of saturation and many remaining un employed ?
Well its hard to predict the future but true the no is increasing and in future there may be saturation, But oncology set ups are also increasing so some hope is still there.
I hope i have answered all your questions. If u are taking any where plz inquire properly and join.
Confusedoc
May 24, 2013Thanks a zillion sir for taking time out to give a detailed explaination to my questions . Will definitely take your inputs and come to a conclusion 🙂
mohsin kamal
May 25, 2013Dear Dr. Das,
Thank u very much sir for giving such an elaborate information… it clarified most of my doubts.. though i have few… 1) what are the job opportunities for MD radiotherapy in Gulf nations?..2) Is there any way to get a job in European union after completing MD radiotherapy?… 3)How is the course in SVIMS tirupati? sir… pls guide me regarding these queries as i am very much confused about whether to take radiotherapy or ananesthesia.
Dr Suman Das
May 26, 2013Dear kamal
Thanx for the complement. Honestly I don’t have any idea about Gulfcountry. About About European option plz place a bloblog entry in isocenter.org some one will give feed back.
For svims tirupati plz call my friend dr pranabandhu das 09948367281 he is àsst prof there and will b able to guide u.
Thanx
M.Chowdhury
May 31, 2013Sir..i stumbled on this wonderful blog just at the correct time.First let me thank you 4 writing this very informative piece.
Planning to take up MD RT this year.my exposure to RT was practically nil in under-grad..so am quite apprehensive.People doing MD(General Medicine) also practice Oncology.So will i be considered lesser than them?also,will my field of practice be limited to radiatherapy only..or both chemo and radio?and can i do DM onco after MD RT?
Dr Suman Das
May 31, 2013Thanx for your appreciation. No there is no comparison between MD medicine and Radiation Oncology. RO is a superspeciality directly. That does not mean i am telling you to go and grab the seats. Its a very good subject and it also has its pro and cons consider everything then take descision.
ricky
June 6, 2013sir any idea about the radiation oncology course in kidwai memorial institute, Banglore?
Dr Suman Das
June 6, 2013extremely sorry i dont have any knowledge about radiation oncology in kidwai medical college banglore.in banglore my friend Dr rishi is there he s a radiation oncologist 09900101471 is his cell no he may guide u.
thanx
ricky
June 7, 2013thanks for the info sir, would you be kind enough to give your opinions about SGPGI lucknow, institute of medical science BHU varanasi and VMMC & safdarjung hospital Delhi?
Dr Suman Das
June 7, 2013SGPGI is a very good institute academically and technologically. About BHU and Safadrjang i am not sure about the technology please find out from the people doing MD or SR in that institute.
dr pooja gupta
June 8, 2013Mam…..i got selected in m state uppg exam …there s 3 seats fr radiotherapy in up….i m confused beyween anesthesia and radio threapy…..wat vl b bst opt…..wat r d scope…after doing MD radiotherapy…..is d job opportunity is easy after doing it
Dr Suman Das
June 8, 2013Dear pooja congrats for getting through PG entrance. It is difficult for me to suggest which subject u should choose.
I would suggest plz decide based on your priorities like 1.where do u want to stay,
2.After marriage where your husband will stay,
3.what profession or subject your hubby is so that you can have a good family life along with career etc.
Radiotherapy scope is good at present but cant predict for future it may be saturated also. If u want to stay in your place the options are limited as your practise will be institute based and its huge investment which is not possible for everyone to do,
Job opportunity is not that easy as u may not get in the place and inst u like. Its difficult to say like in medicine or paediatrics u can practice any where but not in this subject.
Ajeet Kumar
June 9, 2013Dear Sir, thank you for such a detailed information about RT. I just wanted to know about health hazard while doing RT as I was told by my seniors that there are lots of radiations which impact health and how about the MNJ Institute of Oncology Regional Cancer Hyderabad institute for MD RT. And do you have any idea on opportunity in Hyderabad for MD in RT.
Dr Aravind R
June 12, 2013sir
thanks for this platform
Am genuinely intrested in radiation oncology, infact had intrests in oncology right from my ug days, med oncology was my dream but now i have slim chances for getting into md medicine
i extensively sought info on radiation oncology with many of my seniors and friends, first of all no one seems to have a concrete knowledge.
My intrest in this field is genuine, i may get md anesth, md obg, ms ent, ms ophth with my rank, but i have a passion for radiation oncology more than other branches. i understand that may be branches like obg/ent/oph may get me more general practise and help me settle down easily, but i wish to be more academic oriented and do some “serious” things like oncology.many advised me that rad onco is a little risky as future prospects cant be guaranteed.i understand that there is truth in it as it may take more time for hospitals to invest in cancer treatment. i also learn that a rad oncologist may not get a good job where he wish
but if am willing to work any where in india or middle east and even ready to spent one or 2 years doing SR ship or fellowships, will my future be secure?Will i have a respectable salary and job prospects? Many are advising me to take branches like obg where there is no risk of finding a job with handsome salary, but something is holding me back to rad oncology.
so sir can i go forward with oncology?
Dr Suman Das
June 13, 2013If u have interest in the subject i am sure u will do good and if u r so keen on medical oncology try too get it after md rt. All the best
deepali
June 16, 2013sir what are the job prospectives if pg in radiotherapy is done from Tata
what are the hours of work during residency and in hospital attachments?
Dr Suman Das
June 17, 2013Job prospects are good in present scenario if u r doing from institutes like tata memorial inst. Hours of work depends on the institute you are working. Usually no emergency and may be 9-6 pm kind of job.
Harjot Kaur
June 16, 2013thanks a lot for the valuable information sir..is it better to do md rt from a peripheral college or dnb rt from a reputed cancer centre?
Dr Suman Das
June 17, 2013Hi Harjot,
Thanx for your appreciation of the blog. Now the pass percentage of DNB has improved in my view if u r getting in a good private inst (ask the seniors whether there is good clinical and academics) then its better to choose the DNB. Again in govt inst if academics is good and u get good exposure to basics then nothing like it. Discuss with seniors of the inst and definitely u can get an idea. Where ever u do always better to be prepared to do 2 -3 yrs SR ship in good institutes.
Minakshi Roy
June 23, 2013Respected Dr Suman,
I am Minakshi Roy a 1st year DNB Radiotherapy resident at Mahavir Cancer Sansthan Patna. I need your help for choosing my thesis topic. In my institute we have a LINAC, Cobalt machine. IGRT is also done here. Steriotactic radiosurgery is just getting introduced (not a lot of experience and patients). We have huge case load of head neck cancer. With this background I am looking for DNB thesis topic and am really confused what can suit me based. Can you suggest me any latest trends/topic that I can choose for my thesis in the above background.
Thanking you in advace,
Minakshi Roy
Dr. Avipsa Das
June 26, 2013sir,would you b kind enuf to tell if IPGMER,KOLKATA is a good institute for radiotherapy?
Dr Suman Das
June 27, 2013Dear Avipsa
congratulations. Honestly i dont have any idea about Kolkata, but i have got my friends Dr Susovan Banerjee mob09564804456. U can call him in evening at around 7 30pm i am sure he will guide u. u can also contact dr Anis Banerjee mob 9674142260. Thanx
Anonymous
June 27, 2013sir i got selection in tata memorial institute for mdrt. but after i joined, some of the seniors and senior residents are not telling things in an optimistic way. as if the field is saturated and there are no job opportunities. i should have taken other options.. i took this subject out of interest. but these things are making me a little confused. can you please give an insight about the current job scenario and prospects?
confused..
June 28, 2013Sir
I’ve been selected to tata memorial for MD Radiotherapy this year. But the problem is the PG s and Senior residents are showing a discouraging attitude as in they are telling us the field is saturated and there is no job opportunity and it has been a blunder to choose it when I could have got another subjects easily. I chose this subject out of interest and against the wish of my family. I have a fear now whether i could go jobless in future. Please help me out on the job prospects etc.
Dr Suman Das
June 28, 2013Well as i always tell getting a job may not be a problem but getting it at your preferred places will definitely be a problem. It will be difficult for you to get a good set up in your own city etc. Rest if u like the subject and do good then no problem should be there, if u still dont get the confidence then you have got second counselling to decide. All the best
confused..
June 28, 2013Sir, it was my first choice to go for RT. And that too Tata. I’m not concerned about the place of my practice as of now. Given these facts and the institution I study, will it be much of a problem in 3-4 years?
Dr Suman Das
June 28, 2013I really dont think a much problem. Still if u believe in yourself u can find a place to work. I was also told similarly when i joined, I do have struggled but i think i have made my place and today i don’t regret. As this is an unconventional subject and institution dependent predicting about future is difficult. Many of the people from inst like Tata also struggle and many from regional cancer center also do good. its your luck and hard work which will decide your future. if u r joining be determined to do good work i am sure u will excel. Go ahead with open mind and still if u have doubt then take some thing in 2nd counselling.
Anonymous
July 1, 2013i think that all the other branches r way more saturated than rt….bcz u l hardly find ppl who opt fr rt as their 1st choice,though i find it to b the toughest n most elaborative subject of all.as u hav to know the whole human body,n not jst parts.trends change,necessities change.today derma sits at top,tomorrow rt will,for sure.
Deepika
July 10, 2013sir any idea about md radiotherapy from kgmu lucknow??
mitesh patel
July 11, 2013Hello sir,
This blog is very informative…i have some questions,i am sure you will help me out.
1. I can get anaesthesia or radiotherapy or nuclear medicine from dnb,so i want to ask u which branch i should prefer.
2. What is the scope of all this branches in future and which inst are best for nuclear medicine
3. And after pg in any of these courses, i want to practice abroad in uk aur australia then which exam i have to clear.
4. Is DNB degree recognized in foreign countries ???..if yes then which are those countries and what i have to do to practice in those countries after doing dnb ??..
THANKING YOU.
Regards,
Mitesh Patel.
shafeed p
July 24, 2013sir,
is regional cancer centre thiruvananthapuaram a good choice for doing md radiotherapy
Dr Suman Das
July 25, 2013I have heard its a good institute but donot have any personal experience.
Harish
September 5, 2013wat is ur idea and opinion for joining MDRT in cancer inst adyar chennai sir……???
Dr Suman Das
September 11, 2013Sorry Harish dont have any personal experience but i heard they have got very good faculty and good exposure.
Varun
September 14, 2013Sir,
what are your opinion about doing BMTR from rajiv gandhi cancer institute and research centre.
Dr Suman Das
September 17, 2013Honestly no personal experience. Plz ask some one who has been associated with the institute.
Dr bhaskar chakraborty
October 4, 2013that was really excellent….sir,I am also a doctor graduated from Chittagong medical college,bangladesh and is now receiving training on oncology in Chittagong medical college.sir I want to pass frcr exam and also want to do training in tata memorial cancer centre,Mumbai….what should I do……?
Dr Suman Das
October 8, 2013Dear Bhaskar
Plz submit a blog post in website isocenter.org u will get all information regarding your queries.
Ekal Arora
October 7, 2013Hello Dr. Suman Das…..Its very great that your guiding people about the branch. I got a lot of information and cleared my doubts, well most of them but I just wanted to know a bit about these hospitals…Are they good if i take radiotherapy in them. Kindly guide.
1-Indira Gandhi Instt. of Med.
Scs
Sheikhpura, PATNA-14 Bihar
2-Max Super Specialty Hospital 1, Press Enclave Road, Saket, New Delhi-
110017
3-Bangalore Institute of
Oncology
44-45/2, 2nd Cross, Raja Rammohan
Roy Extension, Bangalore-560027
4-Kamla Nehru Memorial
Hospital
1, Hasgimpur Road, ALLAHABAD – 2
Uttar Pradesh
5-Pushpanjali Crosslay
Hospital,
W-3, Sector-1, Vaishali, Ghaziabad
6-Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals 58, Canal Circular Road, Kolkata-
Dr Suman Das
October 8, 2013Sorry Ekal Arora no personal experience with the above mentioned institutes. Hence cant give any genuine opinion.
vijay
October 13, 2013is everything good for a fresher in dis field…. nd abt jobs is it tough finding job like b tech students searching one foryrs….. actually I took dnb radiotherapy in Apollo kolkata now in a mood to give up seat….
Dr Suman Das
October 13, 2013Dear vijay its a good subject and also has good prospects at present but it is hard to predict for future. One thing it is difficult to find a job at your desired place.
john
December 10, 2013Sir,thanks for starting such a nice informative threads..
I just want to ask can we practise abroad say malasia after completing MDRT from renowned cancer institute from india..
Dr Suman Das
December 10, 2013No Idea John please leave this query at isocenter.org u may get your answer.
Ashwin
January 9, 2014Sir,I would like to know how good is kamala nehru memorial hospital for DNB RT ?
Dr Suman Das
January 9, 2014Hi Aswin i personally donot have any information on Kamala nehru Hospital. So it will be not justified for me to give any opinion on it.
Thanks
Ashwin
January 9, 2014Sir,i have sent you a personalized mail to your mail account stated in this webpage.Please reply when you do get time.Thank you in anticipation.
Dr Suman Das
January 10, 20141.Sir,With my rank in DNB as per last year trends , i may get DNB RT in Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital Allahabad , where there is a Tele cobalt machine, Linac , HDR brachy,IMRT,IGRT but no SRS,SRT or NOVALIS.Is that enough for doing dnb residency there?Do we look for tech wise facilities more than academics?Moreover its attached with a medical college and has got RCC status (as per internet sources).so would it be wise to join there?
2.Should we Prefer academically sound institutes or just go with equipments however average the academics may be..
Ans: I personally don’t have any information about this institute. During your MD the basic knowledge is important and what ever machines are available are good enough. The teachers are most important if they are good then no second thought. If possible plz ask 2nd yr aand 3rd year students or ex students about academics.
3.Can we gain experience on equipments not there in the institute , if so , through fellowship courses or during Sr ship?
Ans: Ya u need to do fellowship or SR ship in some pioneer institutes like TMH Mumbai, TMC Kolkata.
4.How do MDRT people cope up with DNB RT people because i feel even Linacs wont be there in govt medical colleges.So how will they manage?I’m asking this question as my all india results are yet to be published.
Ans: I don’t think any discrepancy between DNB and MD. In MD your examiner will be your dept HOD and DNB examiner will be from different institutes. As the classical saying goes MD is difficult to enter but easy to pass but DNB is exactly opposite.
5.How good is RT as a career currently? job wise/monetary wise/satisfaction wise
Ans: I can tell about myself I am happy with the subject but it differs from individual to individual. India is lacking the no of linacs required hence the chance of saturation is less but difficult to predict.
6.Last but not the least .If at all i get an academically good institute with above stated equipment’s and an up to date center with all the equipment’s with avg to poor academics, WHAT should i choose?
Choose for good academics during MD
Ashwin
January 10, 2014Thank you so much sir.Cleared my doubts up to an extent.
ranjana
January 31, 2014Sir
your article was very helpful.i would like to know if king george alias c.s.j.m lucknow is good for md radiotherapy..i would b very happy if u could help me out with this sir.
Thank u sir.
Dr Suman Das
February 6, 2014Sorry Ranjana
No personal experience with KGMU Lucknow. Please try to contact some alumni of that institute they may give u good information.
shafeed
February 1, 2014Sir
I am hoping to take M.D. rt from tata hospital Mumbai. Sir I would like to know the course curriculum and I would also like to know whether hostal facilities r available for 1st year pg students. Sir please help me i am in dilemma whether to take up the subject in Tata or some other subject in Kerala
NEHA
February 27, 2014sir..,iam an mbbs graduate interested in MDRT.,i gave my pg entrance this year ..but i will be getting MDRT in centers with cobalt based set up only ( no LINAC ) . Is it possible for me to get trained in these newer techniques and machines after my masters … please give me an overview of to do it… can i work as SR in tata mem hspitals etc …how difficult is to get SR in tata and other fellow ships…please reply sir….?
NEHA
February 27, 2014SIR, please tell how to get senior residency in tata mem hosp after MDRT.. do they conduct any exams for that.. no. of vacancies per year for SR posts … will it be difficult for n average student like me to get into tata for SR ..?
Dr Suman Das
February 27, 2014For SR in TMH you have to attend theory and Oral interview. Internal candidates are first preference. In future it may be difficult to get in future as no of MD seats are increased still it is not impossible to get in.
maxplanck
March 2, 2014Sir, thank you very much for this excellent blog which gives us almost all the info that we never had earlier.
Sir, I am very much interested in radiotherapy and I have got a decent rank so I am planning to opt for it in the coming counselling. the only thing that is on my mind is that the job prospects in my city hyderabad. Since you have had an opportunity to work in hyderabad can you please tell me about the job prospects and about the payscale that I might get in hyderabad. Thank you in advance.
Dr Suman Das
March 2, 2014Hyderabad has lot of cancer hospitals so u will definitely get opportunity. It will depend on you how you grow.
Rishab Garg
March 22, 2014plz tell..wat is the starting salary of MD RT from tata memorial?? and rise as well??
Thank u..
Dr Suman Das
March 23, 2014Dear Rishab
you dont feed a cow knowing how much milk it will give, Fact is it will give milk anyway but amount may vary from individual to individual. I can not predict whats going to be your starting salary and growth after that because it depends on u how u r going to grow and it is not dependent on subject.
I hope u can understand.
soumyasl das
April 24, 2014in one word aweome….well sir after reading all the topics all my confusion got cleared…just want to ask 1 q….i got this branch in assam medical college through aipg14….its a permitted seat right now,which i got to know later on….is it wise to go for this in this institute??though the college itself is very old….what should i check for this branch in this college to opt it over here.?hope u will reply first….
thank u alot for this much needed blog….
dr soumyasil
srikanth
April 25, 2014Dear Doctors,
I am looking for a Radiation Oncologist for one of the 100 beded Cancer Hospital in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh location. Interested candidates forward your resume at [email protected]
sahasnarapa
April 30, 2014I will like to do MD radiotherapy from TMH but I am from andhra and we are not allowed to take AIPG exam. Is there any other route to TMH? If not then what are the other option for me
sahasnarapa
April 30, 2014I would like to do MD radiotherapy from TMH but I am from andhra and we are not allowed to take AIPG. Is there any other route to to TMH? If not what are my other options
admin
May 5, 2014Hi Sahanarapa
Getting in to TMH means u have to either go through All India or Maharastra PG. If not u have to do senior residency or any fellowship in TMH.
Delena Eltzroth
June 26, 2016Unquestionably consider that that you stated. Your favorite reason appeared to be on the net the easiest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I certainly get annoyed whilst other folks think about concerns that they just don’t understand about. You managed to hit the nail upon the highest and outlined out the whole thing without having side-effects , other folks could take a signal. Will likely be back to get more. Thank you|
Srinivasulu
October 4, 2016Namesthe Dr.Suman Das.yesterday I came to meet you@queens MRI hospital, Visakhapatnam as I wanted to discuss with you regarding DNB RT which I got at Apollo Bangalore.your blog already answered many of my questions.thank u sir.sir Apollo is a well renowned corporate hospital I guess they have a better RT infrastructure.can I have some more information regarding RT@ apollo Bangalore India.thank u
Dr.Pranjali surwase
January 13, 2017hello sir… I hv recenly given neet 2017. and I want a branch which is non emergency n also clinical. so, acc to that radiotherapy is the best!!
so could u tell me… upto what rank acc to neet I can get md n dnb radiotherapy in maharashtra???
n per year fees for md radiotherapy in private medical institution??
Bharathi
January 24, 2017Sir wat is scope of diploma radiotherapy
admin
January 29, 2017U have to do MD or DNB after that
dipa
February 3, 2017Sir.. can u plz tell which are the govt institutes using linac machined for radiotherapy..
admin
February 20, 2017I don’t have knowledge about what all institutes having linac. I know about SCB MC Cuttack has it
Parinita Gupta
February 20, 2017Hello sir,
Sir Please tell me if i take MD/DNB radiotherapy from neet pg 2017.. what are the job prospectives i have in India?
and later if i want to settle down in UK/Austrailia will i be able to work there??
All total I want to know is the current and future scenario of this field??
Doubt
April 16, 2017Dear sir,
I have got radiotherapy in father Muller medical college. Any opinion about radiotherapy in this college? How is the academics in this college.? Thank you in advance
Shrutanjoy adak
September 14, 2017Which are the colleges best suited for md radiotherapy?
Linac is present in which colleges other than tata memorial hospital mumbai?
Dr bhubaneshwar Borooah medical college, guwahati
Bhu
Bjmc cancer medical college
Is this college good? Is linac present there?
Dr Ganesh vernekar
September 28, 2017hello sir
very informative one.
I am working as central government medical officer completed 13yrs service and also got promoted to non-functioning Chief mediCal officer I.e, level 3 and planning to go for MDRT. is it beneficial for me. my planning is to work even after my retirement.
admin
September 28, 2017I think MDRT WOULD not be a right choice for you. As it is completely different from your practice since last 14 yrs. I suggest u to take subjects like medicine or surgery
Dr Ganesh vernekar
September 28, 2017I am working as central government medical officer and have completed 14yrs service and got level 3 promotion to non functioning chief medical officer and planning for MDRT. can it be useful for me?. I am having plans to work even after my retirement.
admin
October 8, 2017Really don’t know how much MDRT would help in central govt job
Shrutanjoy adak
October 7, 2017Md radiotherapy then dm medical oncology. Will it be less preferred than md general medicine and dm medical oncology just because its md radiotherapy in case of fellowship and jobs?
admin
October 8, 2017I can plan anything.post DM no one ask which was your parent branch
admin
January 8, 2018Nothing like that u can do DM after both