How to Choose an Xray Technician Degree Program near Lebanon Kansas
Congratulations regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Lebanon KS so you can become a radiology technician. And now that you have chosen to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, exactly how do you set about choosing the ideal college and program to ensure that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And considering that the majority of states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you ultimately work you may require training to pass a licensing examination. 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 searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and usually settle on the lowest cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into account, there are other critical qualifications as well. For example, you should ask if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are evaluating are provided later in this post. But first, let’s explore what a radiologic technician does and the credentials and education options that are offered.
X-Ray Technician Work Description
There are several professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, they all have the same principal job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some opt to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, such as mammography. They may work in Lebanon KS clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech may 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 care for their equipment and routinely evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to keep in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Lebanon KS medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.
Radiology Tech Degree Options
The basic prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech college is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the opportunity to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, generally takes 18 months to 2 years to complete depending on the program and course load. 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 similar majors that are acceptable as well. Something to consider is that Lebanon KS radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can typically be satisfied by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in their region. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must abide by any certification or licensing requirements in Kansas or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing
After you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, based on the state where you will be employed you may have to be licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but a number accept additional options for testing as well. Several states also call for certification as a component of the licensing process, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, many Lebanon KS employers prefer to hire radiology techs that are certified so it might improve your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.
Online X-Ray Technician Programs
As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree colleges. So although you can still earn your degree online, a large portion of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Clinical training is usually performed in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online segment of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Lebanon KS home. Students who continue working while earning their degree typically find that the online style of education is far more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online programs are generally less expensive than traditional options. Along with reduced tuition, costs for commuting and study materials can be decreased 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 disciplined enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online school may be the right option for you.
Questions to Ask Radiographer Schools
When you have selected the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can begin the process of finding and evaluating Lebanon KS x-ray tech colleges. 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 of course the location of the college will be important. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a determining factor as well. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you consider when comparing colleges? Well, you should ask if the schools are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial details prior to making your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the programs you are considering.
Are the Radiology Technician Schools Accredited? The majority of xray technician schools have obtained some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still important to make sure 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 obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone an extensive evaluation of their teachers and course materials. If the program is online it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also assist in securing financial aid and student loans, which are often not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Lebanon KS health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited college for entry level jobs.
Are Internships Sponsored? Ask if the Kansas radiology technician programs you are reviewing have associations with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only an excellent way to get practical training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to fulfill the practical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they may help graduates and students form professional connections in the Lebanon KS medical community and help with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the x-ray tech schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Lebanon KS healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? For many students, the school they decide on will have to be within commuting distance of their Lebanon KS home. Individuals who have decided to attend online classes naturally will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. One thing to keep in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a college that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges commonly 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 rear of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will probably want a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Lebanon KS colleges you are researching what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to speak with a few of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program as well.
Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you need to verify that the x-ray tech college you ultimately select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you choose to continue working while attending classes. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Lebanon KS, confirm that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss as a result of illness, work or family obligations.
Why Did You Want to Become a Radiology Technician?
When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's helpful to reflect on questions you might be asked. Among the questions that interviewers typically ask radiographer candidates is "What compelled you to choose radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to learn is not only the personal reasons you may have for being a radiology technician, but also what attributes and skills you have that make you exceptional at your profession. You will probably be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, in addition to a certain number of typical interview questions, so you should prepare several ideas about how you want to answer them. Because there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a multitude of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the profession interests you as well as the talents you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the ideal candidate for the job. Don't try to memorize an answer, but write down some ideas and topics that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Reviewing sample answers can help you to formulate your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to impress the recruiter.Enroll in the Best X-Ray Technician Program near Lebanon KS
Enrolling in the right radiology tech degree program is a crucial first step toward beginning a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs regularly stand for the greater part of the day and move and in some cases lift the patient to get the correct image. Prospects must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing social skills is a must in order to have a productive work environment and provide the best possible patient care. As has been addressed in this article, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each program you are looking at before making your final decision. This is equally true whether you decide on an online program or commute to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can assess and compare each program so you can focus your choices and make your decision. And with the appropriate training and your commitment to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to work as a radiology tech in Lebanon KS.
Some Background on Lebanon Kansas
Lebanon, Kansas
Lebanon is a city in Smith County, Kansas, United States, in the north central part of the state. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 218.[7]
In 1918, a scientific survey established the geographic center of the 48 contiguous U.S. states about 2.6 miles (4.2 km) northwest of Lebanon, and a monument was subsequently erected at the site.[8] The geographic center of the 50 U.S. states is located near Belle Fourche, South Dakota.
Lebanon was founded in 1876 at a site about 4 miles (6.4 km) distant from its present site. It was moved to the new site in about 1887-1888. Lebanon is named after Lebanon, Kentucky.[9]
Lebanon is located at 39°48′38″N 98°33′22″W / 39.81056°N 98.55611°W / 39.81056; -98.55611 (39.810492, -98.556061).[10] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.316 square miles (0.818 km2), all land.[2]
As of the census[3] of 2010, there were 218 people, 118 households, and 60 families residing in the city. The population density was 681.3 inhabitants per square mile (263.1/km2). There were 183 housing units at an average density of 571.9 per square mile (220.8/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 95.9% White, 0.5% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 3.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.
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