Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Hatfield PA 19440 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Select a Radiologic Technician Degree Program near Hatfield Pennsylvania

Hatfield PA x-ray tech internship program Best wishes regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Hatfield PA in order to train to be a radiology technologist. But now that you have chosen to enter the gratifying field of healthcare, just how do you set about picking the ideal college and program so that you will obtain the proper training to become a skilled professional? And considering that most states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s important that you research each of the colleges you are looking at in order to compare each program. A number of prospective students start by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and usually gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while cost and location need to be considered, there are additional significant qualifications also. For example, you need to find out if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you should ask the schools you are reviewing are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and training options that are available.

X-Ray Technician Occupation Description

There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, they all have the same primary job description, which is to employ imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some elect to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for instance mammography. They may work in Hatfield PA hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist may utilize include:

Traditional and specialized X-Rays
Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Sonography or ultrasound
Fluoroscopy

Radiographers must take care of their equipment plus regularly evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to retain detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Hatfield PA health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Technician Degree Options

x-ray machine in Hatfield PA The primary prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech program is to have received a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among technicians, normally takes 18 months to 2 years to finish based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as 4 years to complete and is more extensive in scope. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be appropriate also. Something to bear in mind is that Hatfield PA radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may typically be satisfied by participating in an externship program which many colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. After you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing requirements in Pennsylvania or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Licensing and Certification

Once you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, based on the state where you will be employed you might need to be licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their prerequisites vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but a number approve other alternatives for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as a component of the licensing procedure, if not it is optional. However, numerous Hatfield PA employers would rather hire radiology techs that are certified so it could increase your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also requires re-certification every 2 years, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Technician Colleges

attending x-ray tech school online in Hatfield 19440 As a component of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree colleges. So although you can still obtain your online degree, a large portion of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is often carried out in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online portion of the training can be attended in the comfort of your Hatfield PA home. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree often discover that the online approach to learning is much more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online programs are generally less costly than traditional options. In addition to reduced tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting can be decreased as well. But just be sure that the online program you enroll in 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 best choice for you.

Points to Ask X Ray Tech Schools

As soon as you have decided on the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can initiate the process of searching for and assessing Hatfield PA x-ray technician schools. You will also have to determine if you want to attend classes online or travel to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be critical. The price of tuition and supplementary expenses will be an important factor as well. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you factor in when evaluating schools? Well, you should check out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these important details before you make your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you should ask the colleges you are considering.

Are the X-Ray Tech Schools Accredited? Most xray tech colleges have acquired some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still important to verify that the school and program are accredited. One of the most highly regarded 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 undergone a rigorous 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 targets online or distance education. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also help in obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited programs. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And a number of Hatfield PA health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level openings.

Are Internships Sponsored? Ask if the Pennsylvania radiology technician programs you are assessing have relationships with local hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific manner to receive hands on experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can assist students and graduates develop professional relationships in the Hatfield PA medical community and help with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Ask if the radiographer schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Hatfield PA healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they choose will need to be within driving distance of their Hatfield PA 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. Something to bear in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a school that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges typically charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the type of student that prefers to sit far in the rear of class or get lost in the crowd, you will undoubtedly prefer a small class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Hatfield PA colleges you are looking at what the average 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 converse with some of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program as well.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the radiographer school you ultimately choose can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly essential if you opt to continue working while attending classes. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Hatfield PA, confirm that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, verify if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, learn what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss due to illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Want to Become an X-Ray Tech?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to consider questions you may be asked. One of the questions that interviewers often ask radiographer prospects is "What made you choose radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not only the personal reasons you might have for becoming a radiology technician, but also what qualities and skills you possess that make you good at your profession. You will likely be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, in addition to a significant number of standard interview questions, so you need to organize a number of ideas about how you want to answer them. Because there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can respond to this fundamental question in a number of ways. When formulating an answer, aim to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you have that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the job. Don't try to memorize an answer, but write down some ideas and talking points that relate to your personal strengths and experiences. Reading through sample responses can assist you to formulate your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to include to wow the interviewer.

Choose the Right X-Ray Tech Program near Hatfield PA

Choosing the appropriate radiology technician college is a crucial first step toward beginning a satisfying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer must 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 proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to follow the safety guidelines developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray technicians 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 available patient care. As has been addressed in this report, there are several questions that you need to ask each school you are looking at prior to making your final selection. This is similarly true whether you opt for an online program or commute to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each college so you can narrow down your options and make your decision. And with the proper education and your commitment to succeed, you can realize your goal to work as a radiographer in Hatfield PA.

Some Background on Hatfield Pennsylvania

Hatfield, Pennsylvania

Hatfield is a borough in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 3,290 at the time of the 2010 census. It is part of the North Penn Valley region that is centered around the borough of Lansdale. The borough is surrounded by Hatfield Township.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the borough has a total area of 0.6 square miles (1.6 km2), all of it land.

As of the 2010 census, the borough was 66.6% White, 4.1% Black or African American, 0.1% Native American, 23.5% Asian, and 2.9% were two or more races. 6.8% of the population were of Hispanic or Latino ancestry [6]

As of the census[4] of 2000, there were 2,605 people, 1,106 households, and 650 families residing in the borough. The population density was 4,102.7 people per square mile (1,596.5/km2). There were 1,139 housing units at an average density of 1,793.9 per square mile (698.0/km2). The racial makeup of the borough was 82.19% White, 1.77% African American, 0.31% Native American, 12.05% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 1.42% from other races, and 2.23% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.34% of the population.

There were 1,106 households, out of which 30.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.5% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.2% were non-families. 35.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 3.03.