How to Choose an Xray Technician Program near Combs Kentucky
Congrats regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Combs KY in order to become a radiologic technician. And now that you have chosen to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you set about picking the right school and program so that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a qualified practitioner? And since most states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, based on where you subsequently practice you may require training to pass a licensing test. So it’s imperative that you assess each of the schools you are considering so that you can evaluate each program. Most students begin by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and frequently gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location must be taken into consideration, there are other significant qualifiers as well. For instance, you must ask if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the colleges you are considering are provided later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the credentials and training options that are offered.
Radiology Technician Occupation Summary
There are several professional designations for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, they all have the same primary job function, which is to employ imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many opt to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, such as mammography. They can work in Combs KY clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician 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 frequently analyze its functionality and safety. They are also required to keep detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Combs KY medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
Radiology Tech Degrees
The standard requirement for attending a radiology tech program is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, usually takes 18 months to 2 years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 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 appropriate also. Something to consider is that Combs KY radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It can typically be fulfilled by participating in an internship or externship program which a large number of colleges sponsor through local hospitals and clinics in their area. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing requirements in Kentucky or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
Radiographer Licensing and Certification
When you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, based on the state where you will be employed you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria differ so get in touch with your state. Currently, all states that do require licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several approve other alternatives for testing also. A number of states also require certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is optional. However, many Combs KY employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it could enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.
Online Radiology Technician Degrees
As a component 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 schools. So although you can still earn your degree online, a significant amount of the training will be completed either in a college lab or in an internship off-campus. Clinical training is usually provided in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Combs KY residence. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree typically discover that the online approach to education is far more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are often more affordable than traditional options. Along with lower tuition, expenses for commuting and study materials may be decreased 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 dedicated enough to learn with this less structured style of training, then online classes may be the ideal option for you.
What to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges
Once you have decided on the type of degree that you would like to obtain, you can initiate the process of finding and evaluating Combs KY x-ray tech schools. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or travel to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the college will be relevant. The price of tuition and supplementary expenses will be a material variable as well. But along with location and cost, what else should you consider when reviewing colleges? Well, you should check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial details prior to making your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are looking at.
Are the Radiology Tech Schools Accredited? Most xray tech schools have obtained some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still crucial to confirm that the program and school are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a detailed examination of their instructors and course materials. If the college is online it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also help in securing financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not available for non-accredited programs. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Combs KY employers will only hire graduates of an accredited program for entry level positions.
Are Internship Programs Offered? Inquire if the Kentucky radiology tech programs you are interested in have relationships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only an excellent manner to get hands on experience in a clinical environment, they are also a way to fulfill the practical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist students and graduates develop professional relationships in the Combs KY medical community and help with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the x-ray tech programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Combs KY healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they choose will have to be within travelling distance of their Combs KY residence. Individuals who have opted to attend online classes naturally 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 choose to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges typically 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 likes to sit far in the back of class or get lost in the crowd, you will undoubtedly want a smaller class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Combs KY colleges you are looking at what the average teacher to student 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 an opportunity to talk with several of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray technician program also.
Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you need to verify that the radiographer program you ultimately choose can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you choose to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Combs KY, confirm that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, ask what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss because of work, illness or family emergencies.
Why Did You Choose to Become a Radiologic Technologist?
When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's important to review questions you might be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers often ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not merely the private reasons you might have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what attributes and talents you have that make you exceptional at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, in addition to a certain number of general interview questions, so you need to ready a number of ideas about how you would like to address them. Considering there are several variables that go into selecting a career, you can respond to this fundamental question in a number of ways. When readying an answer, aim to include the reasons the work appeals to you as well as the talents you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the ideal candidate for the job. Don't try to memorize an answer, but jot down several ideas and topics that pertain to your personal strengths and experiences. Reading through sample answers can help you to formulate your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to impress the interviewer.Pick the Right Radiology Tech School near Combs KY
Choosing the best x-ray technician college is an important first step toward beginning a rewarding new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs often stand for the majority of the workday and position and at times lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and provide the best possible care to patients. As we have covered in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each college you are reviewing before making your final decision. This is just as true whether you opt for an online program or commute to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each college so you can focus your options before making your final choice. And with the proper training and your dedication to succeed, you can reach your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Combs KY.
Some Background on Combs Kentucky
Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway
The Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway, commonly known as the Mountain Parkway, is a freeway in eastern Kentucky. The route runs from Interstate 64 just east of Winchester southeast for 75.627 miles (121.710 km) to a junction with U.S. Route 460 near Salyersville. The first 43 miles (69 km), beginning at the western terminus in Winchester is a four-lane limited access highway with only minor design standard differences from an Interstate Highway, while the remainder is a limited access Super two highway.
The Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway was built in the early 1960s and opened in January 1963 as Kentucky's second toll road. The route was originally signed only as the 'Mountain Parkway'. In the late 1970s, the "Bert T. Combs" name was added to honor the governor from the mountains who spearheaded construction of the highway. Auxiliary plates were added above the circular Mountain Parkway signs to mark the designation.
As with all of Kentucky's toll roads, the tolls were removed as the construction bonds were paid off. Tolls were removed from the four-lane section in 1985, and the road became a freeway in 1986 when the remaining tolls were removed from the two-lane section.
The route was designated Kentucky Route 114 in April 1985. In August, the road was redesignated Kentucky Route 402. Later, in February 1990, the parkway was designated Kentucky Route 9000 from its western terminus to Kentucky Route 15 Spur near Campton and Kentucky Route 9009 from KY 15 Spur to the parkway's eastern terminus. Both designations are unsigned.[1][2]
On January 15, 2014, Kentucky governor Steve Beshear announced plans to extend the parkway to US 23 in Prestonsburg, which would include widening the highway to four lanes for its entire length. The project, which would cost more than $750 million and requires approval by the Kentucky General Assembly, would run through 2020, and is expected to lead to the reinstatement of tolls on the highway.[3]
More Cities of Interest in Kentucky
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