How to Select a Radiology Technician School near Axtell Kansas
Congratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Axtell KS so you can become a radiologic technician. But now that you have chosen to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, just how do you go about choosing the right school and program so that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And considering that the majority of states do require that radiology techs become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you might need training to pass a licensing test. So it’s essential that you assess each of the schools you are looking at so that you can compare each program. A number of students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and often gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while cost and location should be taken into consideration, there are other significant qualifications also. For example, you should find out if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you should ask the schools you are evaluating are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray technician does and the credentials and training options that are available.
X-Ray Tech Work Description
There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, each has the same major job description, which is to employ imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some choose to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for example mammography. They may work in Axtell KS clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist may work with 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 and also routinely analyze its performance and safety. They are also expected to retain in-depth records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Axtell KS medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.
X-Ray Technician Degrees Available
The primary requirement for attending a radiology tech college is to have received 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 prevalent among technicians, usually takes 18 months to two years to finish based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as 4 years to complete and is more extensive in scope. Most students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be acceptable also. One thing to keep in mind is that Axtell KS radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It can typically be fulfilled by participating in an externship program which a large number of schools offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any licensing or certification mandates in Kansas or the state you will be working as applicable.
Radiographer Licensing and Certification
When you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, based on the state where you will be practicing you may have to become licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their requirements vary so contact your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but a number accept other options for testing also. A number of states also call for certification as a component of the licensing procedure, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, numerous Axtell KS employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.
Online X-Ray Tech Classes
As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree colleges. So even though you can still obtain your degree online, a considerable portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an internship off-campus. Clinical training is often conducted in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. But the online segment of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Axtell KS residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree typically find that the online style of education is much more convenient with their active schedules. Plus online schools are frequently less costly than on-campus options. In addition to reduced tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials can be decreased also. But just make certain that the online program you pick is accredited (more on the advantages 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.
What to Ask X Ray Tech Schools
As soon as you have decided on the type of degree that you would like to earn, you can begin the process of looking for and evaluating Axtell KS x-ray tech schools. You will also have to decide if you prefer to attend classes online or travel to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenditures will be an important variable also. But in addition to location and cost, what else should you look at when reviewing colleges? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you learn 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? Most radiology tech schools have acquired some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Nevertheless, it’s still crucial to verify that the program and school are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a detailed evaluation of their instructors and educational materials. If the school is online it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also assist in obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not available for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Axtell KS health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level openings.
Are Internships Sponsored? Inquire if the Kansas xray technician colleges you are interested in have relationships with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific way to obtain practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist graduates and students form professional relationships in the Axtell KS health care community and assist with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the radiographer programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Axtell KS healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Program Located? For a lot of students, the college they pick will need to be within commuting distance of their Axtell KS home. Those who have opted to attend online classes obviously 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 consider is that if you choose to enroll in a college that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges typically charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.
How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of student that prefers to sit way in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably prefer a small class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Axtell KS schools you are researching what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program as well.
Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the x-ray tech school you finally choose can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you choose to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Axtell KS, make certain 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 need to enroll in. Also, ask what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.
Why Did You Choose to Be an Xray Technician?
When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to reflect on questions you may be asked. One of the things that interviewers typically ask radiographer prospects is "What drove you to select radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not just the private reasons you might have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what characteristics and skills you possess that make you outstanding at your profession. You will probably be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, as well as a certain number of routine interview questions, so you should ready several approaches about how you would like to address them. Considering there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the strengths you have that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the best choice for the job. Don't try to memorize a response, but jot down several concepts and topics that pertain to your personal strengths and experiences. Going over sample answers can help you to prepare your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to wow the interviewer.Pick the Ideal Radiology Tech School near Axtell KS
Selecting the appropriate radiology tech school is a critical first step toward launching a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs frequently stand for the majority of the day and position and in some cases lift the patient to get the correct image. Candidates must also demonstrate a capability to pay close attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology 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 good work environment and furnish the best possible patient care. As we have covered in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each program you are considering prior to making your final selection. This is similarly true whether you participate in an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each school so you can focus your options and make your decision. And with the proper training and your motivation to be successful, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiographer in Axtell KS.
Some Background on Axtell Kansas
Axtell, Kansas
Axtell is a city in Marshall County, Kansas, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 406.[6]
The first settlements were made at Axtell in the 1860s.[7] The first post office in Axtell was established in December 1871.[8] Axtell was laid out in 1872 when the railroad was extended to that point, and a railroad depot was built that year.[9] It was named for Dr. Jesse Axtell, a railroad official.[10]
Axtell is located at 39°52′21″N 96°15′26″W / 39.87250°N 96.25722°W / 39.87250; -96.25722 (39.872447, -96.257361).[11] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.51 square miles (1.32 km2), all of it land.[1]
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Axtell has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfa" on climate maps.[12]
As of the census[2] of 2010, there were 406 people, 178 households, and 111 families residing in the city. The population density was 796.1 inhabitants per square mile (307.4/km2). There were 194 housing units at an average density of 380.4 per square mile (146.9/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 96.8% White and 3.2% from two or more races.
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