FAQ's

How long is residency?
Residency is a total of 5 years. Some institutions have a built in first year of general medicine while others ask that you apply to a separate internship. The internship can be a pure medicine, pediatric, or surgery preliminary year or a combination of fields called a transitional year.

Are there fellowships following residency?
There are numerous fellowships across the country including those in pediatrics, research, brachytherapy, and just about any sub-site or combinations of sub-sites within radiation oncology

Is applying to radiation oncology competitive?
Though there is no absolute cutoff as to scores needed to apply in the field, most programs look favorably at above average board scores, research both in the field and outside the field, class rank, and recommendation letters from radiation oncologists.

What if I don't love physics?
Most residency programs in the country teach a formal physics course. Physicians work with physicists to ensure that treatment is delivered accurately to patients. Though you don't have to have a love affair with the subject material, you should at least be able to understand the material.

Do I have to do research in medical school?
While some applicants do research in medical school, it is far from required to apply in the field. Those interested in an academic career often engage in research during residency. Previous successful applicants have a wide range of research from those who have Ph.D.s to those who have no research experience.

What is a typical week like in radiation oncology?
A resident's day varies from day to day. As a resident you will typically see consults, follow-ups, and simulate patients for treatment planning. In addition, you will also approve port films to ensure patients are treated in the right position. Also a portion of your time will include treatment planning where you will outline tumor volumes and normal structures and set up the fields, which your patient will be treated on.

What is the job market like?
Like most fields, the job market varies from year to year. Many often say it goes in phases. Currently, graduating residents have a wide range of opportunities including faculty positions across the country and as well as private practice opportunities.

Where is the field going?
The field is constantly growing and the technology is amazing. We are constantly working to increase the accuracy of the treatment while decreasing the toxicities of our treatment. It is an exciting time to be in the field and watch it change to improve patient care.

Are my kids going to have three eyes and four ears if I go into the field?
Studies have revealed that in the modern age of radiation oncology in the United States that there is no increased risk for a cancer or increased risk birth defects to progeny. In addition, all of the staff that works in the department wears film badges to track the amount of radiation exposure.

Who governs the specialty?
Radiation oncologists receive board certification from the American Board of Radiology. Historically radiologists who received additional training in radiation oncology delivered radiation. As radiation oncology expanded, the specialty created a completely separate residency.

Who should write my letters of recommendation?
Many programs recommend that you get at least one letter from a radiation oncologist. Like most specialties we value the opinion of our colleagues. Getting letters from other fields is not discouraged and may provide a balanced view of applicants.

How many programs should I apply to?
There is no set amount of programs one should apply to. The most important thing is that you are comfortable with how many programs you applied to. When completing the residency matching process, you don't want to have any regrets.

Are people happy in the field?
Radiation Oncology is an amazing field that constantly challenges you as an individual. You will be constantly rewarded as you work to improve the health of your patients. The rewards far outweigh the work you will put into the field. We encourage you to face the challenge and join us in the exciting and ever-changing field of radiation oncology.

Should you have any further questions we encourage you to contact any of the members on the ARRO executive board.