Radiotherapy is not an enemy
but a hero in improving cancer patients’ lives.
“Everyone is intimidated by radiation and doesn’t see it as treatment but more as a harming agent. However, today’s medical technology has greatly advanced, resulting in accurate and efficient treatment. From my experience, radiotherapy has helped patients regain their life quality and human dignity.”
“Thank you, cancer, for taking me here.” This text is from a patient penned on a suggestion form and given to the Light of Day Radiation Oncology Center. It reflects the achievement of modern medicine in helping patients regain their happiness and life quality.
The success could not have happened if not for the determination and intention of Dr. Yongyut Kongthanarat, who wanted to build the Light of Day Radiation Oncology Center to be a ray of hope for cancer patients.
- ‘Inventor Doctor’ of the Light of Day Radiation Oncology Center
“I have an inventor bent in me. I like to think, seek out new approaches to improve things.”
Dr. Yongyut interestingly described the private persona behind the role of a specialist doctor. He said that becoming a radiation oncologist in the Light of Day Radiation Oncology at MedPark Hospital is the epitome of his interests, skills, and self-initiator propensity.
“The reason I am interested in radiotherapy is it requires math skills. I like initiating and finding methods and practices that will lead to the best treatment outcome with the technologies and tools we have. I found that it’s a job that I’m adept at and can benefit others.”
“Radiotherapy is a medical technology capable of alleviating suffering. It can shrink the size of cancer, which causes difficulty with living. Patients will feel more comfortable. No matter what the treatment outcomes, they will be able to continue living their quality lives painlessly. It makes me appreciate the value and feel happy when the treatment is successful or meets the needs of the suffering patients who count on us.”
Before securing today’s satisfaction, Dr. Yongyut faced a few professional barriers. Switching from an obstetrician to a radiologist career to working with high technologies and equipment had the unintended effect of impeding professional advancement.
“Back then, budgeted staff and tools were inadequate. Radiotherapy machines in Thailand were scarce. As I recall, only about ten hospitals had this kind of machine. Staff specialized in this area were far and few in between.”
- Support with an insightful understanding.
The Light of Day Radiation Oncology Center at MedPark Hospital is one of our notable achievements. Dr. Yongyut, a co-designer, crafted this center to align treatment technology with the patient’s feelings. When asked about the reason for taking part in designing this center, Dr. Yongyut related:
“I was once the president of the Thai Society of Radiological Technologists (TSRT). I had opportunities to visit radiotherapy centers under the supervision of TSRT. I advised and inquired about the staff, personnel, and patients regarding their needs. Armed with the experience and information, I conceptualized the tools and facilities requirements of a radiotherapy center to enable staff to work efficiently and allow for patient convenience and comfort to make their experience not dreary, painful, and depressing.”
Having the opportunity to co-design the Light of Day Radiation Oncology Center, Dr. Yongyut leveraged his vast knowledge, experience, and understanding of cancer patients to establish a center that meets the need for every physical aspect of radiotherapy and promotes a salutary emotional experience.
Structure-wise, the wall thickness of the radiotherapy room meets regulatory standards. The center is in a suitable location, connecting to patient elevators and an adjoining car park, bypassing other parts of the hospital. It allows patients to receive private, convenient medical services.
Because of technological advancements, it is essential to plan for the future. The center has adequate external beam radiation machines, CT simulator for treatment planning and brachytherapy. For future-proofing, spaces are set aside for new equipment or technologies to ensure service continuity in case of future upgraded installation.
Dr. Yongyut aims for a high precision and personalized treatment plan. He designates an expert physician in the team to perform image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) daily, increasing treatment precision and leading to the most satisfactory treatment outcome.
- Create understanding when patients misperceive ‘radiotherapy’ as an enemy
When asked about how to cope with patients or relatives anxious about radiotherapy, Dr. Yongyut replied, “Everyone is anxious,” with a stern face, he told us that the center often deals with this kind of anxiety.
“Most people fear radiotherapy and are intimidated by the word radiation. They don’t see it as treatment but as a harmful agent. They are wary of potential side effects and believe radiotherapy is painful or makes them feel and look rundown. Patients, and their families, often come to us with anxiety. It is our responsibility to talk with them and create understanding. Let them know we will help improve their condition, reduce the size of cancer without pain and suffering, and help them live more happy and convenient lives. These are treating by ways of the arts of medicine.”
He added that modern radiotherapy machines had come a long way from being unable to control the direction and amount of radiation beams to be precisely controllable, which minimizes radiation side effects to the surrounding normal tissues. With the precision and accuracy of the machines, patients will be satisfied with the treatment outcomes that meet their expectations. The technology will likely further improve and be more efficient. Thus, radiotherapy is no longer a terrifying modality of treatment.
“You may feel pain from radiotherapy given to cancer in some areas. I always inform patients that they need to endure it temporarily. The result will be good. Cancer will shrink, and you will not feel the pain again. If patients don’t give up, we doctors don’t give up too. But, to gain cooperation, we must understand them first and sincerely explain to them.” Dr. Yongyut related his experience.
When asked about his favorite pastimes and hobbies or personal interests, Dr. Yongyut said that besides working at the hospital, he follows a simple lifestyle and exercises for 45 minutes daily. When time permits, he will have a family meal and see his sons and grandchildren. Treating patients is one of his favorite activities. Doing his best at work is another way for him to be happy.
“Working in my role, I have often seen cancer patients in critical conditions or advanced stages. I intend to cure their disease and rid them of pain and suffering.
“I received many heartfelt thanks from patients and their relatives even though, in the end, cancer parted their beloved ones away. The important thing is the patients pass away peacefully with dignity and not in pain. It is a great sustenance for them and brings me pride in helping people with my knowledge and capabilities.”
Dr Yongyut Kongthanarat
Radiation Oncologist
Doctor profile
