My radiotherapy treatment
Radiotherapy is given in specialist treatment centres. The specialist doctor who is in overall charge of your radiotherapy is called a consultant clinical oncologist or radiotherapist. Most clinical oncologists also prescribe chemotherapy. They supervise a team of doctors including specialist registrars and senior house officers.
The consent form
The doctor will ask you to sign a consent form, which is a written record that you have agreed to the planned radiotherapy. Before you can give your consent, your doctor will discuss with you what the radiotherapy is likely to involve, the benefits and risks, and any available alternative treatments. You may also be given some written information to back up what you’ve been told.
It is important that you understand the information you have been given, and that you ask questions if you don’t understand or if you want more information.
Your doctor will write the main benefits and risks associated with the radiotherapy on the consent form before you sign it. You will then be given a copy of this.
Find out more about consent.
Who will be treating me?
Therapy radiographers work in radiotherapy departments and are the main people you will come into contact with when you have radiotherapy treatment. They work closely with the clinical oncologist and help plan and give your treatment. They will be able to answer many of your questions. Radiographers are also able to advise on possible side effects and what you should or shouldn’t do during treatment.
You may also meet nurses in the radiotherapy department; they can advise you on care during your treatment.