Schools with Radiologic Technologist Programs Atchison KS 66002 Archives

How to Choose a Radiology Technician College near Atchison Kansas

Atchison KS x-ray tech internship program Best wishes regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Atchison KS so you can train to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, just how do you go about picking the right college and program to ensure that you will receive the appropriate training to become a skilled practitioner? And considering that most states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you may need preparation to pass a licensing test. So it’s important that you investigate each of the colleges you are considering so that you can compare each program. Many prospective students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and frequently gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while location and cost should be taken into account, there are additional critical qualifications also. For instance, you must ask if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These inquiries and others you should ask the schools you are evaluating are presented later in this post. But first, let’s explore what a x-ray technician does and the degrees and training options that are available.

X-Ray Tech Job Summary

There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, they all have the identical primary job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many elect to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They can practice in Atchison KS hospitals, clinics, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician might utilize include:

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

Radiographers have to take care of their equipment and also regularly evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally required to retain in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Atchison KS health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Technician Degree Options

x-ray machine in Atchison KS The primary requirement for attending a radiology tech school is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, normally requires 18 months to two years to finish depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to four years to finish and is more expansive in nature. The majority of students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be acceptable also. Something to keep in mind is that Atchison KS radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It may often be satisfied by participating in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any licensing or certification mandates in Kansas or the state you will be working as applicable.

Radiographer Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an Radiologist college, depending on the state where you will be working you may need to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites differ so get in touch with your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the purpose of licensing, but a number provide other options for testing also. A number of states also call for certification as a component of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, many Atchison KS employers favor hiring radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every two years, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.

Online X-Ray Technician Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Atchison 66002 As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical 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 online degree, a large amount of the training will be satisfied either in a college lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is typically performed in local hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training may be accessed in the comfort of your Atchison KS home. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree typically find that the online approach to learning is far more convenient with their active schedules. Plus online colleges are generally less costly than conventional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials may be reduced also. But just make certain that the online college you enroll in is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then online classes may be the best option for you.

Subjects to Ask Radiographer Programs

As soon as you have selected the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can start the process of finding and evaluating Atchison KS x-ray technician colleges. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or commute to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be critical. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be a material variable as well. But in addition to cost and location, what more should you factor in when evaluating colleges? Well, you need to check out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you learn some of these important details before you make your decision, we have assembled a list of questions that you need to ask the colleges you are considering.

Are the Radiology Technician Programs Accredited? The majority of xray tech schools have acquired some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still crucial to confirm that the school and program are accredited. One of the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone an extensive review of their instructors and course materials. If the school is online it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not offered for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Atchison KS health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level openings.

Are Internship Programs Provided? Ask if the Kansas xray technician colleges you are reviewing have partnerships with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific way to obtain hands on experience in a clinical environment, they are also a means to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they can assist students and graduates form professional relationships in the Atchison KS medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the radiographer schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Atchison KS healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the School Located? For a lot of students, the college they choose will have to be within travelling distance of their Atchison KS residence. Individuals who have decided to attend classes online obviously will not have to worry 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 may have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges often charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of student that prefers to sit way in the back of class or hide in the crowd, you will undoubtedly prefer a smaller class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Atchison KS schools you are looking at what the average 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 a chance to converse with a few of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray technician program also.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the radiographer program you finally select can provide the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you opt to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Atchison KS, check that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, verify if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would have to carry. Also, find out what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of work, illness or family obligations.

Why Did You Decide to Be an X-Ray Tech?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to reflect on questions you might be asked. One of the things that recruiters often ask radiographer prospects is "What drove you to decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not just the personal reasons you may have for becoming an Xray technician, but additionally what attributes and skills you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, along with a certain number of routine interview questions, so you need to organize a number of approaches about how you would like to respond to them. Because there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a number of ways. When readying an answer, try to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the ideal candidate for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but take down a few ideas and topics that pertain to your personal experiences and strengths. Reviewing sample answers can help you to prepare your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to include to enthuse the interviewer.

Choose the Ideal X-Ray Tech Program near Atchison KS

Enrolling in the appropriate radiology technician degree program is an important first step toward beginning a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the greater part of the workday and position and sometimes lift the patient to get the correct image. Prospects must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to observe the safety requirements developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and furnish the best possible care to patients. As we have covered in this report, there are several questions that you need to ask each program you are assessing before making your ultimate selection. This is similarly true whether you decide on an online school or drive to classes on-campus. By asking the right questions you can examine and compare each school so you can focus your options before making your final choice. And with the appropriate education and your commitment to succeed, you can accomplish your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in Atchison KS.

Some Background on Atchison Kansas

Atchison, Kansas

Atchison is a city and county seat of Atchison County, Kansas, United States, and situated along the Missouri River. As of the 2010 census, its population was 11,021.[6] The city is named in honor of David Rice Atchison, United States senator from Missouri, and was the original eastern terminus of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. Atchison was the birthplace of aviator Amelia Earhart, and the Amelia Earhart Festival is held annually in July. Atchison is also home of Benedictine College, a Catholic liberal-arts college.

Atchison was founded in 1854 and named in honor of Senator David Rice Atchison, who, when Kansas was opened for settlement, interested some of his friends in the scheme of forming a city in the new territory.[7] Senator Atchison was interested in ensuring that the population of the new Kansas Territory would be majority pro-slavery, as he had been a prominent promoter of both slavery and the idea of popular sovereignty over the issue in the new lands. However, it seems that all were not agreed upon the location he had selected, and on July 20, 1854, Dr. John H. Stringfellow, Ira Norris, Leonidas Oldham, James B. Martin and Neal Owens left Platte City, Missouri, to decide definitely upon a site. They found a site that was the natural outlet of a remarkably rich agricultural region just open to settlement. George M. Million and Samuel Dickson had staked claims near the river; Dr. Stringfellow staked a tract north of Million's. Million sold his claim for $1,000—an exorbitant price. Eighteen persons were present when the town company was formally organized by electing Peter T. Abell, president; James Burns, treasurer; and Dr. Stringfellow, secretary. The site was divided into 100 shares by the company, of which each member retained five shares, the remainder being reserved for common benefit of all. By September 20, 1854, Henry Kuhn had surveyed the 480 acres (1.9 km²) and made a plat, and the next day was fixed for the sale of lots, an event of great importance as it had become understood that Senator Atchison would make a speech upon the political question of the day, hence the sale would be of political as well as business significance. At his meeting on the 21st, two public institutions of vital interest to a new community were planned for—a hotel and a newspaper. Each share of stock in the town company was assessed $25, the proceeds to be used to build the National Hotel, which was completed in the spring of 1855, and $400 was donated to Dr. Stringfellow and Robert S. Kelley to erect a printing office.[citation needed]

The Squatter Sovereign, a paper with strong pro-slavery sentiments, was first issued on February 3, 1855. It had formerly been published at Liberty, Missouri, under the name of the Democratic Platform. In the spring of 1857 it was purchased by Samuel C. Pomeroy, Robert McBratney and F.G. Adams, who changed its policy and published it as a free-state paper until the fall of the same year, when Pomeroy became the sole owner.[8]

The first post office in Atchison was established April 10, 1855, with Kelley as postmaster. It was opened in a small building in the block later occupied by the Otis house. In July 1883, the free-delivery system was inaugurated.[citation needed]

For years there had been considerable trade up and down the Missouri River, which had naturally centered at Leavenworth, but in June 1855, several overland freighters, such as Livingston, Kinkead & Co., and Hooper & Williams were induced to select Atchison as their outfitting point and formed the basis that established Atchison as a commercial center. Early merchants to establish businesses in the new town were George Challis, Burns Bros., Stephen Johnston and Samuel Dickson.[9]