How to Choose an X-Ray Tech Degree Program near Cimarron Kansas
Congratulations regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Cimarron KS in order to learn to be a radiology technologist. And now that you have decided to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, exactly how do you set about selecting the ideal college and program so that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And considering that most states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you subsequently work you might need training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s essential that you assess each of the colleges you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. Most students start by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and usually settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location must be taken into account, there are additional critical qualifications also. For example, you need to ask whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you should ask the schools you are reviewing are provided later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and training choices that are available.
X-Ray Tech Career Description
There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, each has the same primary job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some choose to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialty, for instance mammography. They can work in Cimarron KS hospitals, clinics, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician 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 maintain their equipment plus routinely evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally required to retain in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Cimarron KS medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
Radiology Technician Degree Options
The standard prerequisite for attending a radiology tech college is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, generally requires 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 expansive in nature. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be acceptable also. Something to keep in mind is that Cimarron KS radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It may often be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which many schools offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Kansas or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing
When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech program, based on the state where you will be working you might need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria vary so contact your state. Presently, all states that do require licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several accept additional alternatives for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. However, numerous Cimarron KS employers favor hiring radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every 2 years, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.
Online X-Ray Technician Degrees
As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree programs. So even though you can still earn your degree online, a considerable portion of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is usually performed in regional hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online segment of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Cimarron KS residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually find that the online style of education is far more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online programs are frequently less expensive than conventional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials can be lessened as well. But just be sure that the online school you choose is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured style of training, then an online school may be the best choice for you.
Points to Ask X Ray Tech Programs
After you have selected the type of degree that you want to earn, you can initiate the process of finding and evaluating Cimarron KS x-ray technician schools. You will also have to decide if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be critical. The price of tuition and secondary expenses will be a determining factor also. But in addition to cost and location, what more should you consider when reviewing schools? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you learn some of these important details before you make your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you should ask the programs you are looking at.
Are the Radiology Tech Programs Accredited? A large number of xray technician schools have received some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important to verify that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly respected 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 gone through a rigorous examination of their teachers and educational materials. If the program is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides guaranteeing a quality education, accreditation will also assist in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Cimarron KS health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited program for entry level openings.
Are Internships Offered? Inquire if the Kansas xray technician programs you are evaluating have associations with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific way to receive hands on training in a clinical setting, they are also a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may assist students and graduates form professional relationships in the Cimarron KS medical community and help with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, 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 placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Cimarron KS healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Program Located? For many students, the college they pick will need to be within travelling distance of their Cimarron KS home. Those who have chosen to attend classes online obviously will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. Something to bear in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges often charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges often charge a higher tuition for those students that don’t reside within their districts.
What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of student that likes to sit far in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Cimarron KS colleges you are looking at what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to converse with several of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program also.
Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the x-ray tech college you finally select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you decide to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Cimarron KS, check that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, verify if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would need to enroll in. 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 Desire to Become an X-Ray Tech?
When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's helpful to reflect on questions you may be asked. Among the questions that interviewers often ask radiographer applicants is "What made you decide on radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to discover is not merely the personal reasons you might have for being an X-Ray tech, but also what qualities and talents you possess that make you outstanding at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, in addition to a significant number of standard interview questions, so you should prepare some ideas about how you would like to answer them. Because there are numerous factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this fundamental question in a variety of ways. When readying an answer, aim to include the reasons the profession appeals to you in addition to the talents you have that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but take down a few ideas and talking points that pertain to your personal strengths and experiences. Going over sample responses can assist you to develop your own thoughts, and give you ideas of what to include to enthuse the interviewer.Choose the Right Radiology Technician School near Cimarron KS
Selecting the best radiology tech school is a critical first step toward starting a gratifying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs often stand for the greater part of the working day and position and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Prospects must also show an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and provide the best available care to patients. As we have covered in this post, there are a number of questions that you should ask each program you are considering before making your ultimate selection. This is just as true whether you decide on an online program or commute to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each college so you can narrow down your choices before making your decision. And with the proper education and your dedication to succeed, you can reach your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in Cimarron KS.
Some Background on Cimarron Kansas
Cimarron, Kansas
Cimarron is a city in and the county seat of Gray County, Kansas, United States.[6] As of the 2010 census, the city population was 2,184.[7]
Cimarron was first settled in 1878.[8] It took its name from a fork in the Chisholm Trail which led travelers to the Cimarron River.[9]
Between 1887 and 1893, a county seat war took place in Gray County that involved several notable Old West figures, such as Bat Masterson, Bill Tilghman, and Ben Daniels. As a result of the dispute, Cimarron became the permanent county seat of Gray County.[10]
In the wee hours of June 10, 1893, Bill Doolin and four members of his gang robbed a train one-half mile east of Cimarron.[11]
Cimarron is located at 37°48′30″N 100°20′51″W / 37.80833°N 100.34750°W / 37.80833; -100.34750 (37.808332, −100.347413).[12] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.14 square miles (2.95 km2), all of it land.[1]
More Cities of Interest in Kansas
Business Results 1 - 10 of 1
1 Reviews 