Tag Archives: How to Become a Radiology Technician West Haven CT 06516

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near West Haven CT 06516

How to Find an Xray Technician Degree Program near West Haven Connecticut

West Haven CT x-ray tech internship programBest wishes regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near West Haven CT so you can learn to be a radiology technologist. And now that you have decided to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, exactly how do you undertake selecting the ideal school and program to ensure that you will receive the proper training to become a qualified professional? And since the majority of states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s imperative that you assess each of the schools you are considering in order to compare each program. Most potential students start by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and frequently settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location must be taken into account, there are other critical qualifications also. For example, you need to ask if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internships. These inquiries and others you must ask the colleges you are reviewing are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray tech does and the credentials and education options that are available.

X-Ray Technician Career Summary

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, each has the same major job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some opt to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They may work in West Haven CT hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech may utilize include:

  • Traditional and specialized X-Rays
  • Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Sonography or ultrasound
  • Fluoroscopy

Radiographers must maintain their equipment plus regularly assess its performance and safety. They are additionally required to retain detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As West Haven CT medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degree Options

x-ray machine in West Haven CTThe basic requirement for attending an x-ray tech program is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, normally takes 18 months to two years to complete based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as 4 years to complete and is more extensive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be appropriate as well. One thing to bear in mind is that West Haven CT radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It can frequently be satisfied by participating in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their area. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must abide by any certification or licensing mandates in Connecticut or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

After you have graduated from an X-Ray tech school, based on the state where you will be employed you might need to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their criteria differ so check with your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several approve additional alternatives for testing as well. A number of states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. Having said that, numerous West Haven CT employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it might improve your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Tech Schools

attending x-ray tech school online in West Haven 06516As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree programs. So even though you can still earn your degree online, a large portion of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Practical training is often performed in area hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online segment of the training can be attended in the privacy of your West Haven CT home. Students who continue working while earning their degree typically find that the online approach to education is much more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online programs are generally less costly than conventional alternatives. Along with reduced tuition, costs for study materials and commuting may be lessened also. But just be sure that the online college you pick is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then an online degree may be the ideal option for you.

Topics to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges

After you have decided on the type of degree that you would like to obtain, you can initiate the process of looking for and assessing West Haven CT x-ray tech colleges. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or drive to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then of course the location of the school will be critical. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a determining variable as well. But along with location and cost, what else should you look at when reviewing schools? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these important details before you make your decision, we have assembled a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are looking at.

Are the X-Ray Tech Programs Accredited? A large number of xray technician colleges have acquired some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still imperative to make sure that the program and school are accredited. One of the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone an extensive review of their instructors and course materials. If the college is online it might also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also help in obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are often not offered for non-accredited programs. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous West Haven CT employers will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Find out if the Connecticut xray technician programs you are evaluating have relationships with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent means to get hands on experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may assist students and graduates form professional connections in the West Haven CT healthcare community and help with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the radiographer programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with West Haven CT healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For many students, the school they select will need to be within driving distance of their West Haven CT residence. Those who have opted to attend online classes naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. One thing to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a college that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges typically charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges usually charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of student that likes to sit way in the back of class or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the West Haven CT schools you are researching what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with some of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program also.

Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the x-ray tech  school you finally pick can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you choose to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in West Haven CT, verify that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would have to carry. Also, find out what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss because of illness, work or family emergencies.

Why Did You Decide to Be an Xray Technician?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to reflect on questions you might be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers frequently ask radiographer candidates is "What compelled you to pick radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to learn is not just the personal reasons you might have for being an Xray technician, but additionally what qualities and talents you have that make you outstanding at what you do. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, as well as a significant number of standard interview questions, so you must ready several strategies about how you want to answer them. Given that there are so many variables that go into selecting a career, you can address this primary question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the work interests you as well as the abilities you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the ideal choice for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize a response, but write down several concepts and anecdotes that pertain to your personal strengths and experiences. Reading through sample responses can assist you to prepare your own thoughts, and inspire ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Enroll in the Best Radiology Tech College near West Haven CT

Choosing the right radiology technician degree program is a crucial first step toward initiating a rewarding new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist should be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs often stand for the majority of the workday and position and sometimes lift the patient to get the proper image. Prospects must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to follow the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Having interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and furnish the best available patient care. As we have discussed in this report, there are a number of questions that you should ask each college you are looking at before making your ultimate decision. This is similarly true whether you enroll in an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each college so you can narrow down your options before making your final choice. And with the proper training and your motivation to succeed, you can reach your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in West Haven CT.

Some Background on West Haven Connecticut

West Haven, Connecticut

West Haven is a city in New Haven County, Connecticut, United States. At the 2010 census, the population of the city was 55,564.[8]

Settled in 1648, West Haven (then known as West Farms) was a part of the original New Haven Colony. In 1719, it became the separate parish of West Haven, but was still officially a part of New Haven until 1822.

During the American Revolution, West Haven was the frequent launch and arrival point for raiding parties on both sides of the war. On July 5, 1779, the British invaded New Haven Harbor and came ashore in West Haven and East Haven. Thomas Painter, a teenaged militiaman watching for the approaching British ships while standing atop Savin Rock, is depicted on the city seal. The main commercial street, Campbell Avenue, is named for British Adjutant William Campbell, at the time an ensign in the Third Guards, who rescued the Reverend Noah Williston, the local Congregational minister and outspoken revolutionary, from being bayoneted by British and Hessian troopers, after he broke his leg trying to escape his captors. Campbell then ordered the soldiers to help the minister back to the parsonage and had the regimental surgeon set his leg. Campbell is also credited with keeping the troops in reasonably good order during their march through the village and reportedly had two soldiers arrested after a local woman accused them of stealing her jewelry. Campbell was killed hours later atop Allingtown Hill on his way to New Haven by a local farmer-turned defender. Campbell is buried in the Allingtown section of town off Prudden Street. Patriot victims of the invasion are buried in the Christ Church and First Society Cemetery. A historical headstone marks Campbell's approximate gravesite and is maintained by the West Haven Historical Society.

While West Haven again attempted to incorporate as its own town in 1784, that attempt failed, primarily due to the protests of neighboring Milford, which opposed North Milford becoming part of the new town. West Haven and North Milford tried again in 1786 and 1787 with the same result. The two finally joined to become Orange (incorporated as a town in 1822). In 1921, West Haven split from Orange to become a separate town. It was incorporated as a city in 1961 and is known as "Connecticut's Youngest City",[9] but it is ironically one of the state's oldest settlements.

The Savin Rock section of West Haven was the site of the Savin Rock Amusement Park, which began in the late 19th century as a regionally renowned seaside resort. It evolved into a general amusement park in the 20th century and eventually closed in the 1960s. The park ran along the west side of the New Haven Harbor beachfront and is today a walk and bike path. Several restaurants remain as last reminders of the area including Jimmies, Turk's of Savin Rock, both for their seafood and split hot dogs and Mike's Apizza & Restaurant.

 

More Cities of Interest in Connecticut

  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Canton CT 06019
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Manchester CT 06040
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Thomaston CT 06787
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Bridgewater CT 06752
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Southbury CT 06488
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Taftville CT 06380
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Meriden CT 06450
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Norfolk CT 06058
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Lebanon CT 06249
  • Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Salisbury CT 06068
  •  

     

    Business Results 1 - 10 of 26

    Yale Diagnostic Radiology
    1 Reviews
    Phone:
    800 Howard Ave, New Haven, CT 06519
    Hammers Lynwood Dr Radiologist
    3 Reviews
    Phone:
    2 Church St S, New Haven, CT 06519
    Diagnostic Imaging of Milford
    2 Reviews
    Phone:
    30 Commerce Park Dr, Milford, CT 06460
    Yale-New Haven Hospital
    35 Reviews
    Phone:
    20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
    Quest Diagnostics
    2 Reviews
    Phone:
    687 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516
    VA Connecticut Healthcare System
    2 Reviews
    Phone:
    950 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516
    Quest Diagnostics
    2 Reviews
    Phone:
    60 Temple St, New Haven, CT 06510
    Quest Diagnostics
    1 Reviews
    Phone:
    2 Church St S, Ste 115, New Haven, CT 06519
    Temple Surgical Center
    2 Reviews
    Phone:
    40 Temple St, New Haven, CT 06510
    Connecticut Gastroenterology Consultants, PC
    4 Reviews
    Phone:
    40 Temple St, Fl 4, Ste 4A, New Haven, CT 06510