If you have never had radiation before, the process can feel intimidating. Knowing the steps - consultation, simulation, planning, daily treatment and follow-up - makes it far less daunting.
A radiation course usually starts with a consultation and a planning CT scan called a simulation, where small marks or a mold help position you consistently. The team then designs your plan, and daily treatments begin, each typically lasting only a few minutes of beam time. You will have regular check-ins to manage side effects. Every center handles logistics a bit differently, so ask about parking, scheduling and support services. This is general information, not medical advice.
Initial visit to review your diagnosis, imaging and treatment options with the radiation oncologist.
A mapping scan with positioning marks or a custom mold to ensure precise daily setup.
Short, painless beam-delivery appointments, typically Monday-Friday.
On-treatment and post-treatment check-ins to monitor response and side effects.
A Florida medical license lets a physician practice, but board certification is the signal that a doctor completed accredited residency training and passed rigorous exams in their specialty. Look for certification by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) member board that matches the care you need — and verify it yourself.
Procedure facts on this page draw on authoritative medical sources. Confirm specifics in a consultation.
ASTRO — RT Answers ↗National Cancer Institute — Radiation Therapy ↗Choose a board-certified doctor — and verify it yourself:
ABMS — Certification Matters ↗ Look up any U.S. physician’s board certification across all 24 ABMS member specialty boards. Florida DOH — License Verification ↗ Confirm an active Florida license and review any disciplinary history. NPI Registry (CMS) ↗ Verify a provider’s national identifier and registered specialty taxonomy. Medicare Care Compare ↗ Compare clinicians, hospitals and facilities on quality measures.