Before initiating a treatment, the treatment plan must be approved by the:

The treatment plan must be approved by the radiation oncologist because they are the medical professional responsible for determining the appropriate course of treatment for patients with cancer. The oncologist specializes in understanding the complexities of cancer types, stages, and the most effective interventions, including specific doses and radiation techniques. Their expertise ensures that the treatment aligns with the patient's diagnosis, overall health status, and treatment goals.

While input from the patient is critical for informed consent and participation in their own care, the ultimate approval of the treatment plan falls under the purview of the radiation oncologist. Medical dosimetrists and radiation therapists play significant roles in the treatment delivery process, but they do so under the direction and approval of the radiation oncologist. Their tasks might include developing the plan or implementing it, but they do not have the authority to approve it independently. This hierarchy emphasizes the necessity of a physician's oversight in ensuring patient safety and the effectiveness of the treatment being administered.