Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Ocilla GA 31774 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Select a Radiologic Technician Program near Ocilla Georgia

Ocilla GA x-ray tech internship program Congratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Ocilla GA so you can learn to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, how do you tackle picking the ideal school and program to ensure that you will get the proper training to become a skilled professional? And because most states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you might need training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s imperative that you research each of the colleges you are looking at so that you can evaluate each program. Most students start by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and frequently gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location need to be taken into account, there are additional critical qualifiers as well. For example, you must ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are considering are provided later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a radiology technician does and the degrees and training options that are available.

Radiology Technician Job Summary

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, they all have the identical primary job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many choose to work as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They may practice in Ocilla GA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech might work with 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 regularly evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally required to keep complete records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Ocilla GA health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degrees Offered

x-ray machine in Ocilla GA The basic prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech college is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, generally takes 18 months to two years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 4 years to finish and is more comprehensive in scope. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that may be acceptable also. One thing to keep in mind is that Ocilla GA radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It may typically be satisfied by taking part in an internship or externship program which many colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing mandates in Georgia or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiographer Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech school, based on the state where you will be employed you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so contact your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but several approve other alternatives for testing as well. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, many Ocilla GA employers would rather hire radiology techs that are certified so it may improve your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which can be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Technologist Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Ocilla 31774 As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree programs. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a significant portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is typically provided in area hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training can be attended in the comfort of your Ocilla GA residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually find that the online style of learning is much more convenient with their active schedules. Plus online programs are often less expensive than traditional options. Along with lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials can be reduced also. But just confirm 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 right choice for you.

Topics to Ask Radiology Tech Schools

Once you have decided on the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can begin the process of looking for and evaluating Ocilla GA x-ray tech colleges. You will also have to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or commute to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the college will be important. The price of tuition and secondary expenses will be a determining factor as well. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you consider when reviewing colleges? Well, you should 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 reviewing.

Are the X-Ray Technician Schools Accredited? The majority of xray tech schools have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Nevertheless, it’s still important to confirm that the program and school are accredited. One of the most highly regarded accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools earning accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous review of their teachers and course materials. If the school is online it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also assist in acquiring financial assistance and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Ocilla GA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level openings.

Are Internships Offered? Inquire if the Georgia xray technician schools you are assessing have partnerships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent means to get hands on training in a clinical setting, they are additionally a means to satisfy the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a secondary benefit, they can help graduates and students develop professional connections in the Ocilla GA medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the radiographer schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Ocilla GA healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For many students, the school they decide on will need to be within commuting distance of their Ocilla GA home. Individuals who have chosen to attend classes online naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. Something to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of student that likes to sit way in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will undoubtedly want a small class size. Smaller classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Ocilla GA schools you are looking at what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to talk with some of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the radiology tech program as well.

Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you need to verify that the x-ray tech college you ultimately pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you choose to continue working while attending school. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in Ocilla GA, confirm that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, check if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would need to enroll in. Also, ask what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss because of illness, work or family emergencies.

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

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to review questions you might be asked. Among the things that interviewers frequently ask radiographer applicants is "What made you pick radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not only the personal reasons you might have for being an Xray technician, but also what attributes and talents you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions relating exclusively to radiography, in addition to a significant number of typical interview questions, so you need to organize some ideas about how you would like to respond to them. Because there are so many variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this primary question in a variety of ways. When formulating an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work appeals to you as well as the talents you have that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the perfiect choice for the job. Don't attempt to memorize a response, but take down a few concepts and talking points that relate to your personal strengths and experiences. Reviewing sample responses can help you to develop your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to impress the interviewer.

Enroll in the Best Radiology Tech Program near Ocilla GA

Choosing the best x-ray tech school is a critical first step toward starting a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer must be in good physical shape. Radiology techs often stand for the greater part of the workday and position and in some cases lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to observe the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and furnish the best available care to patients. As has been addressed in this report, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each school you are considering prior to making your ultimate decision. This is equally true whether you enroll in an online program or commute to classes on campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can analyze and compare each college so you can narrow down your choices before making your final choice. And with the proper education and your commitment to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Ocilla GA.

Some Background on Ocilla Georgia

Ocilla, Georgia

The city of Ocilla is the county seat[4] of Irwin County, Georgia, United States. Its population was 3,414 at the 2010 census. Ocilla is part of the Fitzgerald Micropolitan Statistical Area.

Ocilla was founded in 1880, incorporated as a town in 1897, and finally re-incorporated as a city in 1902. It is not clear whether Ocilla is named for the Seminole Chief Osceola, for an Oswichee Native American tribe, or, as proposed by historian John Goff, it could be an adaptation of the place name Auscilla.[5] A 1981 Fitzgerald Herald-Leader says that "a tribe of Oswichee Indians once lived near the Ocmulgee River on land known in 1818 as Irwin County." There, towns were called Oswitchee and Ocilla, and sometimes Ocichi. The French census shows that a town called Ocichi existed there in 1750. A later census in 1832 gives Oswhichee as the name of another Indian village close to Osochi." It goes on with "The town's name was changed seven times. It was called by the Indians Assile, next Aglie, Axilla, Agulu, Ochile, and lastly Ocilla." This theory is less popular today.

The most popular theory is that Ocilla is named for Chief Osceola, who had a prominent role in the Second Seminole War. Allegedly, he camped in the area known as Western Heights in Ocilla and frequently could be found in the area until his capture and imprisonment at Fort Moultrie, South Carolina. Osceola is probably the reason that the sports teams in Irwin County are now known as the Indians.

In the 1980s and 1990s Marie Watson was known in Ocilla as the "Christmas Lady." Watson would intricately decorate the property around her home on Cherry Street with lights and Christmas decorations and each year "Santa Claus" would visit the property, taking wishes for gifts from children. Watson became famous for her Christmas cheer but eventually stopped due to the hassle of decorating and because of her older age. Today, her tradition is somewhat carried on every year as the City of Ocilla now decorates Cumbee Park, the public park directly in front of Watson's former home, and holds a yearly session with Santa Claus.[6]

On the outskirts of town, Ocilla once hosted the New Veterans Memorial Track (commonly known as the Ocilla Raceway) which was a 3/8 mile layout racing track. It was inaugurated on April 23, 1950. Governor Herman Talmadge was scheduled to attend but was unavailable and the former Governor M.E. Thompson appeared instead. On opening day 2,500 people watched the first program featuring five separate races. James Bennett of Macon, Georgia won the 20-lap featured race and Lucy Stacks of Fitzgerald won the women's race. VFW would eventually take over the track after the original owner, Marion "Buddy" Green, decided that its liabilities were too great.[7]