Can Radiation Oncology Professionals Take Travel Assignments?

Radiation oncology, or “rad onc” for short, is a specialized field of medicine that involves the use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer. This treatment method requires skilled professionals, including radiation therapists, medical dosimetrists, and medical physicists, who play an essential role in the delivery of radiation therapy. With the increasing demand for radiation oncology services, many healthcare facilities offer travel assignments to such clinicians in order to mitigate staffing shortages. In this blog post, we will explore what rad onc travel assignments entail and why medical professionals in this field might want to take one.

What Are Radiation Oncology Travel Assignments?

They are temporary positions that involve placing radiation oncology professionals in different healthcare facilities across the country.  Healthcare travel assignments typically last for a few weeks to several months and provide clinicians with opportunities to increase their compensation, gain new experiences, develop their skills, and work with different teams.

Radiation therapists, medical dosimetrists, and medical physicists are all in high demand, making travel assignments a popular choice for professionals in these fields. While traveling, clinicians work with different patients, learn new techniques and technologies, and expand their knowledge base. They also have the chance to work in different environments and with diverse populations, which can broaden their horizons and help them gain a better understanding of the healthcare industry as a whole.

Why Take a Rad Onc Travel Assignment?

There are several reasons why radiation oncology professionals might want to go on a travel assignment. Some of these include:

1. Lucrative Pay: Travel assignments typically pay quite well, especially for in-demand professions like radiation therapists, dosimetrists, and medical physicists. The weekly take home pay is higher because it often includes housing and travel stipends.
2. Adventure: If you want to explore new places and cultures, traveling may be just the ticket. A rad onc travel assignment can be an exciting and rewarding experience that provides a much-needed break from the routine of a permanent position.
3. Flexibility: Travel assignments provide the ability to choose between different locations and schedules in order to find what fits you best. This can be especially appealing to those who prefer a non-traditional work schedule or who want to take extended breaks from work.
4. Career Growth: Working in various healthcare facilities and clinical settings provides travelers with new challenges and opportunities to expand their skillsets. This extensive experience makes travelers more attractive to potential employers and may increase earning potential.
5. Networking: Working with a variety of healthcare professionals and organizations can help clinicians build their professional network. This can lead to better job opportunities and collaborations down the road.