Accredited Radiology Technician Schools Moorefield WV 26836 Archives

How to Choose a Radiologic Tech Program near Moorefield West Virginia

Moorefield WV x-ray tech internship program Congrats regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Moorefield WV so you can learn to be a radiology technologist. But now that you have decided to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you set about choosing the ideal college and program to ensure that you will obtain the proper training to become a qualified professional? And since the majority of states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you may need preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you assess each of the schools you are considering so that you can evaluate each program. A number of prospective students start by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and typically gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while location and cost must be considered, there are additional significant qualifiers as well. For instance, you need to ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are evaluating are presented later in this post. But first, let’s explore what a radiology tech does and the credentials and training choices that are available.

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Radiology Technician Occupation Description

There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, they all have the identical fundamental job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many choose to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They may work in Moorefield WV clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician may utilize include:

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

Radiographers must care for their equipment plus frequently analyze its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to retain complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Moorefield WV medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degrees Offered

x-ray machine in Moorefield WV The standard requirement for enrolling in an x-ray tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist pupils have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, normally requires 18 months to two years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as 4 years to finish and is more comprehensive in scope. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that are appropriate as well. Something to consider is that Moorefield WV radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can frequently be fulfilled by participating in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools offer through local hospitals and clinics in their area. After you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must abide by any licensing or certification mandates in West Virginia or the state you will be working as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, depending on the state where you will be practicing you might need to be licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their prerequisites differ so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the purpose of licensing, but a number accept additional alternatives for testing also. A number of states also require certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. Having said that, many Moorefield WV employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it may enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Technician Colleges

attending x-ray tech school online in Moorefield 26836 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 schools. So while you can still earn your online degree, a considerable amount of the training will be satisfied either in a college lab or in an externship off-campus. Practical training is often provided in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training may be attended in the privacy of your Moorefield WV residence. Students who keep working while earning their degree typically discover that the online style of education is far more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online programs are frequently cheaper than traditional alternatives. In addition to reduced tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials may be decreased as well. But just make certain that the online college 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 right choice for you.

Questions to Ask Radiology Tech Programs

As soon as you have decided on the type of degree that you want to obtain, you can initiate the process of searching for and evaluating Moorefield WV x-ray tech schools. You will also need to decide if you want to attend online classes or travel to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the school will be important. The cost of tuition and secondary expenses will be a determining variable also. But along with location and cost, what else should you consider when evaluating colleges? Well, you need to find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you learn some of these essential details prior to making your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you should ask the programs you are considering.

Are the X-Ray Tech Schools Accredited? Most radiology tech colleges have obtained some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still important to make sure that the school and program 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 a detailed evaluation of their instructors and educational materials. If the college is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also help in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are often not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Moorefield WV health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Provided? Find out if the West Virginia xray tech schools you are interested in have associations with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific way to receive hands on experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist students and graduates develop professional relationships in the Moorefield WV medical community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the x-ray tech schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Moorefield WV healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they select will have to be within driving distance of their Moorefield WV residence. Students who have opted 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 concern. Something to bear in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a college that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges typically charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the kind of student that prefers to sit far in the rear of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will likely prefer a small class size. Smaller classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Moorefield WV colleges you are considering what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you a chance to talk with a few of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the x-ray technician program also.

Does the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must verify that the radiographer school you finally pick can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you opt to continue working while you attend classes. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Moorefield WV, confirm that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, learn what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Desire to Be a Radiology Technician?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to reflect on questions you may be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers typically ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to choose radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to discover is not just the personal reasons you may have for being a radiology technician, but additionally what characteristics and skills you have that make you good at what you do. You will probably be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, as well as a certain number of standard interview questions, so you must prepare several ideas about how you want to answer them. Given that there are so many variables that go into selecting a career, you can address this fundamental question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the talents you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the leading choice for the position. Don't make an effort to memorize a response, but write down a few ideas and topics that pertain to your personal experiences and strengths. Going over sample responses can assist you to formulate your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to include to enthuse the recruiter.

Select the Best Radiology Technician College near Moorefield WV

Choosing the right x-ray tech degree program is an important first step toward launching a satisfying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs regularly stand for the majority of the working day and move and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Prospects must also demonstrate an ability to pay close attention to detail and to follow the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a pleasant work environment and furnish the best available care to patients. As has been discussed in this report, there are several questions that you need to ask each program you are considering before making your final selection. This is similarly true whether you enroll in an online program or travel to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can evaluate and compare each program so you can focus your options before making your final choice. And with the appropriate training and your commitment to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to work as a radiology tech in Moorefield WV.

Some Background on Moorefield West Virginia

Moorefield, West Virginia

Moorefield is a town in Hardy County, West Virginia, USA. Moorefield is the county seat of Hardy County. It was originally chartered in 1777 and named for Conrad Moore, who owned the land upon which the town was laid out. The population was 2,544 at the 2010 census. Moorefield is located at the confluence of the South Branch Potomac River and the South Fork South Branch Potomac River. Today it is run by Mayor Tim Luttrell.

Moorefield is situated in the South Branch Valley along the South Branch of the Potomac River. Native Americans populated this area for centuries, farming along the river and hunting in the surrounding mountains. English settlers began arriving in the early 18th century, attracted by the fertile land. This early settlement was centered on the community of Old Fields, which is located about five miles to the north of present-day Moorefield. Conflict between the settlers and Native American populations broke out during the French and Indian War. Two fortifications guarded the South Branch Valley in the vicinity of Moorefield. Fort Buttermilk was erected in 1756 and garrisoned by Captain Thomas Waggoner's Virginia Regiment Company.[6] A second fortress, Fort Pleasant, situated at Henry Van Meter's Farm at Old Fields, guarded the northern side of the valley and was also garrisoned by Captain Thomas Waggoner's Virginia Regiment Company.[7] In the spring of 1756, soldiers from Forts Buttermilk and Pleasant clashed with Shawnee warriors under Bemino (known to the English as Killbuck) at the Battle of the Trough.

The land on which Moorefield was laid out was owned by Conrad Moore. In 1777, the Virginia General Assembly chartered the town of Moorefield in what was then Hampshire County, Virginia (today Hardy County, West Virginia).[8] When Hardy County was separated from Hampshire County by act of the Virginia General Assembly in 1785, Moorefield was chosen as the county seat.[9] Many of the historic houses in Moorefield display vernacular adaptations of Federal and Greek Revival architecture and date to the last quarter of the 18th century and first quarter of the 19th century. During the American Civil War, Moorefield was the site of a cavalry engagement between Union Brigadier General William W. Averell and Confederate Brigadier General John McCausland on August 7, 1864.

Moorefield is located at 39°4′N 78°58′W / 39.067°N 78.967°W / 39.067; -78.967 (39.063, -78.966).[10]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.40 square miles (6.22 km2), of which, 2.35 square miles (6.09 km2) is land and 0.05 square miles (0.13 km2) is water.[1]