Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Palmetto GA 30268 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Pick a Radiologic Technician College near Palmetto Georgia

Palmetto GA x-ray tech internship program Congratulations regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Palmetto GA so you can become a radiologic technologist. But now that you have made a decision to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, exactly how do you tackle picking the ideal college and program so that you will receive the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And considering that most states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you might require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you research each of the colleges you are considering so that you can compare each program. Most prospective students start by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and typically gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location must be taken into consideration, there are additional significant qualifications also. For instance, you should find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you should ask the colleges you are considering are presented later in this post. But first, let’s explore what a radiology technician does and the degrees and training choices that are offered.

X-Ray Technician Career Description

There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, they all have the identical primary job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some opt to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for instance mammography. They can work in Palmetto GA hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist 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 plus routinely evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to keep in-depth records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Palmetto GA health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Tech Degrees

x-ray machine in Palmetto GA The standard prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech program is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, generally takes 18 months to two years to finish depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to four years to complete and is more extensive in scope. Most students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that may be acceptable as well. Something to consider is that Palmetto GA radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It can typically be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which many schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Georgia or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiographer Licensing and Certification

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech program, depending on the state where you will be practicing you might have to become licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their prerequisites vary so contact your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but many approve other options for testing also. Some states also require certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, numerous Palmetto GA employers favor hiring radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which can be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.

Online Radiology Technician Degrees

attending x-ray tech school online in Palmetto 30268 As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree schools. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a significant portion of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is typically conducted in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training may be accessed in the comfort of your Palmetto GA residence. Students who keep working while earning their degree usually find that the online style of education is much more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online programs are frequently less costly than traditional alternatives. In addition to reduced tuition, expenses for study materials and commuting can be reduced as well. But just make sure that the online college you choose is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online degree may be the right option for you.

Subjects to Ask Radiologic Tech Schools

After you have decided on the type of degree that you would like to earn, you can begin the process of finding and assessing Palmetto GA x-ray tech schools. You will also need to decide if you want to attend online classes or drive to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be an important variable as well. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you consider when evaluating schools? Well, you need to ask if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details prior to making your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are reviewing.

Are the Radiology Technician Colleges Accredited? A large number of xray technician schools have obtained some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still crucial to verify that the program and school are accredited. Among the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs earning accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a detailed assessment of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also assist in getting financial aid and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited schools. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous Palmetto GA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level openings.

Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Find out if the Georgia xray technician schools you are assessing have relationships with regional clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific means to obtain hands on training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they can help graduates and students develop professional connections in the Palmetto GA healthcare community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the radiographer programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Palmetto GA healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the School Located? For many students, the school they choose will need to be within driving distance of their Palmetto GA residence. Students who have decided to attend online classes naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. One thing to bear in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges often charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges usually charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of person that prefers to sit far in the rear of class or hide in the crowd, you will likely prefer a smaller class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Palmetto GA colleges you are looking at what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you a chance to speak with some of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program also.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the x-ray tech college you ultimately select can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you decide to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Palmetto GA, confirm that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, check if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, find out what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss because of work, illness or family obligations.

Why Did You Desire to Become an Xray Technician?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to consider questions you might be asked. Among the questions that recruiters often ask radiographer candidates is "What drove you to choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not merely the private reasons you might have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what qualities and talents you have that make you exceptional at what you do. You will probably be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, in addition to a certain number of typical interview questions, so you must organize some ideas about how you want to answer them. Considering there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a variety of ways. When formulating an answer, try to include the reasons the profession interests you as well as the strengths you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the job. Don't attempt to memorize an answer, but write down some ideas and anecdotes that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample responses can help you to prepare your own thoughts, and inspire ideas of what to include to impress the recruiter.

Enroll in the Right X-Ray Tech School near Palmetto GA

Enrolling in the ideal x-ray tech degree program is a crucial first step toward launching a gratifying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the majority of the working day and position and sometimes lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate a capability to pay close attention to detail and to observe the safety requirements designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and deliver the best possible care to patients. As has been discussed in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each program you are reviewing prior to making your final selection. This is just as true whether you enroll in an online program or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each program so you can narrow down your options before making your decision. And with the right education and your dedication to succeed, you can reach your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Palmetto GA.

Some Background on Palmetto Georgia

Palmetto (train)

The Palmetto is a passenger train service operated by Amtrak over the 829 miles (1,334 km)[2] from New York City south to Savannah, Georgia, via the Northeast Corridor to Washington, D.C., then via Richmond, Virginia, Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina. The Palmetto is a shorter version of the Silver Meteor, which continues south to Miami, Florida. Between 1996 and 2002 this service was called the Silver Palm. Although currently a day train, in the past the Palmetto provided overnight sleeper service to Florida.

During fiscal year 2011, the Palmetto carried nearly 200,000 passengers, an increase of 3.8% from FY2010. The train had a total revenue of $16,438,480 during FY2011, a 7% increase over FY2010.[1]

Amtrak introduced the Palmetto on June 15, 1976. The train drew its name from the Sabal palmetto, the state tree of South Carolina. The name Palmetto Limited had also been used by the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad for a New York—St. Petersburg train which first ran in December 1909. The Palmetto was the first train in the Southern United States to receive the then-new Amfleet equipment, and the 828-mile (1,333 km) run was the longest at the time for the new coaches.[3] At the time of introduction Amtrak planned to run the Palmetto daily for the summer only, with service ending September 8. In August Amtrak extended the Palmetto indefinitely, citing better-than-expected ridership.[4] In October 1976 the Florida Department of Transportation urged Amtrak to extend the Palmetto south to Miami.[5]

Between October 1984 and September 1985 the Palmetto ran combined with the Carolinian between New York and Richmond, Virginia. At Richmond the Carolinian continued separately to Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina. The Carolinian was discontinued after the state of North Carolina withdrew its support for the train.[6][7] The Carolinian has since been restored and runs from Charlotte to New York Penn Station.

In December 1988 Amtrak extended the Palmetto south to Jacksonville, Florida. The train continued to be coach-only, without full dining service.[8] Beginning on May 12, 1990, the Palmetto again combined with a revived Carolinian, although this time the split occurred in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The two trains began running independently in April 1991.[9][10] In October 1994 the Palmetto became a full overnight train with sleeper and dining car service, running through to Tampa, Florida. This replaced the Silver Meteor's Tampa section.[11] This extension was short-lived: budget cuts under the Clinton administration led to the Palmetto's discontinuance on February 1, 1995.[12]