Accredited X Ray Tech Schools Buckhannon WV 26201 Archives - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Select an X-Ray Technician Program near Buckhannon West Virginia

Buckhannon WV x-ray tech internship program Best wishes on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Buckhannon WV in order to learn to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have chosen to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about selecting the right college and program so that you will receive the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And because the majority of states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you might require preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you research each of the schools you are considering in order to compare each program. A number of students start by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and typically settle on the lowest cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into consideration, there are other critical qualifiers also. For instance, you need to find out whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they offer internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the schools you are examining are provided later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a x-ray tech does and the credentials and training choices that are offered.

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Radiology Technician Work Description

There are multiple professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, each has the identical primary job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many opt to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for instance mammography. They may work in Buckhannon WV 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 have to maintain their equipment and regularly evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to keep complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Buckhannon WV health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Technician Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Buckhannon WV The standard prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech school is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the option to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among technicians, usually takes 18 months to 2 years to finish depending on 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 nature. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that are appropriate as well. One thing to consider is that Buckhannon WV radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It can typically be satisfied by taking part in an internship or externship program which many colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing mandates in West Virginia or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an Radiologist school, based on the state where you will be employed you might need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria differ so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do require licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the purpose of licensing, but several provide additional alternatives for testing also. Some states also require certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, many Buckhannon WV employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every 2 years, which may be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Tech Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Buckhannon 26201 As a component of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So although you can still obtain your degree online, a considerable amount of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an internship off-campus. Clinical training is typically conducted in local hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online portion of the training can be accessed in the privacy of your Buckhannon WV home. Students who continue working while earning their degree typically discover that the online style of education is much more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are often more affordable than on-campus alternatives. Along with lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be reduced also. But just be sure that the online school you pick is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online degree may be the best option for you.

Points to Ask Radiographer Programs

Once you have selected the type of degree that you want to obtain, you can initiate the process of finding and assessing Buckhannon WV x-ray tech colleges. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be important. The cost of tuition and secondary expenses will be an important variable as well. But along with cost and location, what else should you factor in when reviewing colleges? Well, you need to find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these important details prior to making your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you must ask the programs you are reviewing.

Are the Radiology Technician Programs Accredited? A large number of radiology tech colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still imperative to confirm that the program and school are accredited. One of 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 undergone an extensive evaluation of their instructors and course materials. If the college is online it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also help in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are frequently not offered for non-accredited schools. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And numerous Buckhannon WV health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Find out if the West Virginia radiology tech schools you are assessing have relationships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent way to obtain practical experience in a clinical environment, they are also a means to satisfy the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a secondary benefit, they can assist graduates and students form professional relationships in the Buckhannon WV medical community and help with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the x-ray tech programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Buckhannon WV healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the Program Located? For a lot of students, the school they decide on will have to be within travelling distance of their Buckhannon WV residence. Students who have decided to attend online classes obviously will not have to worry 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 school that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges generally charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the kind of person that likes to sit far in the rear of class or get lost in the crowd, you will likely want a smaller class size. Smaller classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Buckhannon WV colleges you are considering what the typical 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 an opportunity to talk with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program also.

Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the x-ray tech school you ultimately select can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you decide to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Buckhannon WV, confirm that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would have to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss due to illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Want to Become a Radiology Technician?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's important to consider questions you could be asked. One of the things that interviewers typically ask radiographer applicants is "What compelled you to decide on radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to learn is not just the personal reasons you might have for becoming an Xray technician, but also what characteristics and talents you possess that make you outstanding at what you do. You will undoubtedly be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, as well as a certain number of typical interview questions, so you need to ready some ideas about how you want to respond to them. Given that there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this primary question in a variety of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work interests you in addition to the strengths you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but take down a few concepts and anecdotes that pertain to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample answers can help you to prepare your own thoughts, and inspire ideas of what to include to impress the recruiter.

Select the Ideal X-Ray Tech College near Buckhannon WV

Selecting the right radiology tech degree program is a crucial first step toward launching a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the majority of the workday and position and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to observe the safety requirements designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing interpersonal skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and provide the best possible patient care. As we have covered in this report, there are a number of questions that you should ask each college you are considering before making your final selection. This is just as true whether you participate in an online program or drive to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can evaluate and compare each school so you can focus your choices and make your final choice. And with the proper training and your motivation to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to work as a x-ray tech in Buckhannon WV.

Some Background on Buckhannon West Virginia

Buckhannon, West Virginia

Buckhannon is the only incorporated city in, and the county seat of, Upshur County, West Virginia, United States,[6] and is located along the Buckhannon River. The population was 5,639 at the 2010 census. Buckhannon is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College and the West Virginia Strawberry Festival, held annually on the third week of May. The city is located 115 miles northeast from the capital city of Charleston and 140 miles south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The Sago Mine collapse occurred near Buckhannon on January 2, 2006, resulting in the deaths of 12 of 13 trapped miners. At the time, it was one of the worst mining accidents in the United States for several years and attracted national news coverage.

The history of Upshur County begins with the settlement of the Buckhannon River Valley. Brothers Samuel and John Pringle were English soldiers serving in the French and Indian War (Seven Years' War) who, in 1761, deserted their post at Fort Pitt (present-day Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania). They traveled southward and upstream along the Monongahela and Tygart Valley rivers, continuing up what is now called the Buckhannon River. They were said to have arrived in present-day Upshur County in 1764 and took up living in a huge hollow of an American sycamore. They lived there for three years, living off game and fish. Finally one went out for more ammunition and found the war was over. After his return, they moved to the South Branch settlements. John later went to Kentucky, but Samuel returned to the river valley with his new wife Charity Pringle (née Cutright), her brother John Jr., friends Thomas Hughes, and John and Elizabeth Jackson with their sons George and Edward. (Edward was the grandfather of Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.)

The City of Buckhannon was established on January 15, 1816, named after the river. Some accounts say both are named for; others that they are named after early missionary John Buchannon. The city was chartered by the Virginia General Assembly in 1852. Buckhannon was part of the Commonwealth of Virginia until the secession of West Virginia on June 20, 1863 during the American Civil War. Because of its near-central geographic location, Buckhannon was long considered a prospective site for the capital. In 1866, the legislature approved a bill including Buckhannon among the choices for capital, but officials decided the river was not wide enough to accommodate desired commerce.

The first courthouse was built in 1854. It also served as an opera house and town hall. Electricity was installed in 1891 to replace oil lamps. The building suffered fire damage in the first six months of electrical service. It was razed in 1898. In its place, a Classical Revival style courthouse, designed by Charleston architect Harrison Albright, was begun in 1899 and completed in 1901. It is still in use today. An annex of the same style was added in 1995. In the cornerstone of the main building is a time capsule filled with turn of the 19th century artifacts.