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A new era has dawned for radiation therapists (RTTs). Having adapted to substantial changes throughout their professional history, perhaps the most significant change is now imminent. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to change relationships between humans and their work, with some roles disappearing and new ones created. The implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into radiation therapy is much debated. Radiation Therapists (RTTs) are at the forefront of this technological leap, thus an understanding of their views, in particular changes to their current roles, is key to safe and optimal implementation. 

A 34-item survey was developed through an in-depth literature review to ascertain quantitative and qualitative data. The survey was in seven sections: demographic data; RTT current knowledge in AI; AI applications currently in clinical use and areas for priority development; the potential impact of the RTT role; patient impact due to AI; development, regulation, testing, and ethical considerations; AI education; future perspectives. The study adhered to the ethical requirements of the researcher’s university ethics committee. The survey population was Irish RTTs. It was distributed via the Irish professional body, through services managers nationally, and the online software Survey Monkey. Open and closed-ended ended questions were used to elicit the information. For data analysis, descriptive statistics were employed to describe the results of closed questions. Open questions were coded in a thematic manner discovering patterns and developing themes, to achieve a deeper understanding of the data. 

77/476 (16.2%) registered RTTs participated. Priority areas for development included treatment planning algorithm optimisation, clinical audit, and post-processing. There was resistance regarding AI use for patient-facing roles and final image interpretation. 40.3% of RTTs currently use AI clinically and 41.2% of RTTs anticipate reduced staffing levels with AI. 70.6% of RTTs felt AI will be positive for patients, with the majority promoting AI regulation through national legislation. 94.0% of RTTs were favourable to AI implementation. 

Understanding opinions on AI has significant implications for education and training, ensuring optimal product development and implementation, together with planning for RTT role development in practice. This research identifies priority AI development and implementation areas for RTTs. It thus highlights that RTTs should be involved in development of AI tools that would best support practice, and that clearly defined pathways for AI implementation into this key profession requires discussion so that optimum use and patient safety can ensue.