How to Become a Radiology Technician Philippi WV 26416 Archives

How to Find an Xray Tech Degree Program near Philippi West Virginia

Philippi WV x-ray tech internship program Congrats regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Philippi WV so you can train to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have made a decision to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, how do you go about picking the right school and program to ensure that you will receive the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And considering that most states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s imperative that you investigate each of the colleges you are considering in order to compare each program. Many prospective students start by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and usually gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location should be considered, there are other significant qualifiers as well. For instance, you should find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you should ask the schools you are considering are presented later in this article. But first, let’s explore what a x-ray tech does and the credentials and training choices that are available.

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X-Ray Tech Occupation Description

There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, they all have the same fundamental job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many elect to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for instance mammography. They can practice in Philippi WV hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech 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 and also regularly analyze its functionality and safety. They are also required to keep in-depth records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Philippi WV medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Philippi WV The basic prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech school is to have attained 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 prevalent among technicians, generally requires 18 months to two years to complete based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as four years to finish and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that may be appropriate as well. One thing to keep in mind is that Philippi WV radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It may frequently be satisfied by taking part in an externship program which many schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any licensing or certification requirements in West Virginia or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing

After you have graduated from an Radiologist college, depending on the state where you will be practicing you might have to become licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites vary so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but many provide other alternatives for testing also. Some states also require certification as a component of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, numerous Philippi WV employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it could enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Tech Degrees

attending x-ray tech school online in Philippi 26416 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 schools. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a considerable amount of the training will be completed either in a college lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is typically provided in local hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training may be accessed in the comfort of your Philippi WV residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online approach to learning is much more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are frequently less expensive than traditional alternatives. In addition to reduced tuition, costs for study materials and commuting may be lessened also. But just make certain that the online college you pick is accredited (more on the benefits 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 right choice for you.

Subjects to Ask Radiographer Colleges

When you have chosen the type of degree that you would like to obtain, you can start the process of looking for and evaluating Philippi WV x-ray tech schools. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or travel to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The price of tuition and secondary expenses will be a determining factor also. But along with cost and location, what more should you consider when evaluating schools? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you learn some of these essential details prior to making your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you need to ask the programs you are looking at.

Are the Radiology Tech Schools Accredited? A large number of radiology tech colleges have earned some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still imperative to confirm that the school and program 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). Schools earning accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a detailed examination of their instructors and course materials. If the college is online it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are many times not offered for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Philippi WV health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry level jobs.

Are Internships Provided? Ask if the West Virginia radiology technician colleges you are interested in have associations with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific way to obtain practical training in a clinical environment, they are also a means to fulfill the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist graduates and students develop professional relationships in the Philippi WV healthcare community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the x-ray tech schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Philippi WV healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For a lot of students, the school they decide on will have to be within travelling distance of their Philippi WV home. Those who have opted to attend online classes naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. Something to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may 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.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that likes to sit far in the rear of class or hide in the crowd, you will undoubtedly want a smaller class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Philippi WV schools you are researching what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to converse with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the x-ray tech program also.

Does the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer school you finally pick can provide the class schedule you need. This is particularly essential if you decide to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Philippi WV, check 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 need to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss because of work, illness or family obligations.

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

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to consider questions you may be asked. Among the things that interviewers often ask radiographer applicants is "What compelled you to choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not only the private reasons you may have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but additionally what characteristics and skills you have that make you good at what you do. You will likely be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, as well as a significant number of routine interview questions, so you must organize several ideas about how you want to answer them. Since there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this fundamental question in a multitude of ways. When formulating an answer, try to include the reasons the profession appeals to you as well as the talents you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the ideal choice for the job. Don't attempt to memorize an answer, but take down some concepts and anecdotes that relate to your own strengths and experiences. Reading through sample responses can help you to prepare your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the recruiter.

Pick the Ideal Radiology Technician School near Philippi WV

Enrolling in the right x-ray technician school is a critical first step toward launching a gratifying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist should be in good physical condition. Radiology techs regularly stand for the majority of the workday and move 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 follow the safety guidelines designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a must in order to have a good work environment and deliver the best available patient care. As we have discussed in this article, there are a number of questions that you should ask each program you are reviewing before making your ultimate 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 analyze and compare each program so you can focus your options before making your final choice. And with the proper education and your dedication to be successful, you can realize your goal to work as a radiology tech in Philippi WV.

Some Background on Philippi West Virginia

Battle of Philippi (West Virginia)

The Battle of Philippi formed part of the Western Virginia Campaign of the American Civil War, and was fought in and around Philippi, Virginia (now West Virginia) on June 3, 1861. A Union victory, it was the first organized land action of the war, though generally viewed as a skirmish rather than a battle. However, the Northern press celebrated it as an epic triumph, and this encouraged Congress to call for the drive on Richmond that ended with the Union defeat at First Bull Run in July. It brought overnight fame to Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, and was notable for the first battlefield amputations. It also encouraged the western counties of Virginia to form their own Union state.

As the largely-untrained Confederates had fled the battlefield with barely any resistance, the Union jokingly referred to the engagement as the Philippi Races.

After the commencement of hostilities at Fort Sumter in April 1861, Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan returned to the Army and on May 13 assumed command of the Department of the Ohio, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.[3] McClellan planned an offensive into what is now the State of West Virginia (at the time the northwestern counties of the Commonwealth of Virginia) which he hoped would lead to a campaign against the Confederate capital of Richmond, Virginia. His immediate objectives were to occupy the territory to protect the largely pro-Union populace in the counties along the Ohio River, and to keep open the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad line, a critical supply line for the Union.

On May 26, McClellan, in response to the burning of bridges on the Baltimore & Ohio near the town of Farmington, ordered Col. Benjamin Franklin Kelley of the (Union) 1st Virginia Infantry[4] with his regiment and Company A of the 2nd Virginia Infantry, to advance from Wheeling to the area and safeguard the important bridge over the Monongahela River at Fairmont, a distance of about 70 miles (110 km) southeast of Wheeling. Kelley's men were supported by the 16th Ohio Infantry under Col. James Irvine. After securing Fairmont, the 1st Virginia advanced again and seized the important railroad junction of Grafton, about 15 miles (24 km) southeast of Fairmont, on May 30.

Meanwhile, the 14th Ohio Infantry Regiment, under Col. James B. Steedman, was ordered to occupy Parkersburg and then proceed to Grafton, about 90 miles (140 km) to the east. By May 28, McClellan had ordered a total of about 3,000 troops into Western Virginia and placed them under the overall command of Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Morris, commander of Indiana Volunteers.