Tag Archives: How to Become an X Ray Technician Bridgewater CT 06752

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Bridgewater CT 06752

How to Choose a Radiology Tech Program near Bridgewater Connecticut

Bridgewater CT x-ray tech internship programBest wishes regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Bridgewater CT so you can learn to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have made a decision to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, exactly how do you undertake picking the ideal school and program to ensure that you will get the appropriate training to become a skilled practitioner? And considering that the majority of states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s important that you investigate each of the schools you are looking at so that you can compare each program. Many prospective students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and usually settle on the most affordable cost. But while expense and location must be taken into account, there are other important qualifiers as well. For example, you need to ask whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the schools you are reviewing are presented later in this article. But first, let’s explore what a radiologic tech does and the credentials and training options that are offered.

X-Ray Tech Job Summary

There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, each has the same major job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many opt to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They can work in Bridgewater CT hospitals, clinics, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist might work with 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 regularly evaluate its performance and safety. They are also expected to keep complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Bridgewater CT medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degrees

x-ray machine in Bridgewater CTThe primary prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech school is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, usually takes 18 months to two years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to four years to finish and is more expansive in nature. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that are acceptable as well. One thing to bear in mind is that Bridgewater CT radiographer schools have a clinical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It can often be satisfied by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must comply with any licensing or certification mandates in Connecticut or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, depending on the state where you will be working you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do require licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but many accept other options for testing also. Several states also require certification as a component of the licensing procedure, otherwise it is optional. However, many Bridgewater CT employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it could enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every other year, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Technician Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Bridgewater 06752As a part 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 while you can still earn your degree online, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an externship off-campus. Practical training is often conducted in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training may be accessed in the comfort of your Bridgewater CT home. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree typically find that the online approach to education is far more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are often less costly than conventional options. Along with reduced tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be decreased also. But just make certain that the online school you pick is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online school may be the right choice for you.

Topics to Ask X Ray Tech Programs

Once you have chosen the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of locating and evaluating Bridgewater CT x-ray technician colleges. You will also have to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or commute to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be critical. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be a material factor as well. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you factor in when reviewing colleges? Well, you need to check out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are reviewing.

Are the X-Ray Tech Colleges Accredited? The majority of radiology technician colleges have received some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still imperative to verify that the program and school are accredited. Among 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 gone through an extensive review of their instructors and course materials. If the school is online it can also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also help in obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Bridgewater CT employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Ask if the Connecticut xray technician programs you are assessing have partnerships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific means to get practical training in a clinical environment, they are also a means to fulfill the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a secondary benefit, they can assist graduates and students establish professional relationships in the Bridgewater CT healthcare community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the x-ray tech programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Bridgewater CT healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the school they select will have to be within commuting distance of their Bridgewater CT residence. Those who have chosen 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. One thing to keep in mind is that if you decide 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 generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges generally charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of student that likes to sit far in the back of class or get lost in the crowd, you will probably prefer a small class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Bridgewater CT colleges you are researching 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 determination. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with some of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program as well.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the x-ray tech  program you finally choose can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you opt to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Bridgewater CT, verify that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, learn what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss because of illness, work or family emergencies.

Why Did You Decide to Be a Radiology Technician?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's helpful to reflect on questions you might be asked. Among the questions that hiring managers frequently ask radiographer candidates is "What drove you to select radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not only the private reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but additionally what characteristics and skills you have that make you exceptional at what you do. You will likely be asked questions relating specifically to radiography, along with a significant number of typical interview questions, so you must ready several approaches about how you want to answer them. Since there are so many variables that go into choosing a career, you can respond to this fundamental question in a multitude of ways. When readying an answer, aim to include the reasons the work interests you as well as the strengths you possess that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the leading choice for the job. Don't attempt to memorize an answer, but jot down several ideas and anecdotes that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reviewing sample responses can help you to prepare your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to include to wow the recruiter.

Select the Best Radiology Tech College near Bridgewater CT

Selecting the best radiology technician degree program is a crucial first step toward starting a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs typically stand for the greater part of the working day and move and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay close attention to detail and to follow the safety guidelines designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a pleasant work environment and deliver the best available care to patients. As has been covered in this article, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each college you are considering prior to making your ultimate decision. This is equally true whether you decide on an online program or commute to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each program so you can focus your choices and make your final choice. And with the proper training and your dedication to succeed, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiographer in Bridgewater CT.

Some Background on Bridgewater Connecticut

Bridgewater, Connecticut

Bridgewater is a town in Litchfield County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 1,727 at the 2010 census.

Bridgewater was the only remaining dry town in Connecticut until voters approved the sale of alcohol in a 2014 referendum, by a 660-246 vote.[2][3]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 17.3 square miles (45 km2), of which, 16.2 square miles (42 km2) of it is land and 1.0 square mile (2.6 km2) of it (5.97%) is water. Bridgewater is located on the east bank of the Housatonic River.

As of the census[6] of 2000, there were 1,824 people, 703 households, and 525 families residing in the town. The population density was 112.4 people per square mile (43.4/km²). There were 779 housing units at an average density of 48.0 per square mile (18.5/km²). The racial makeup of the town was 97.53% White, 0.93% African American, 0.05% Native American, 0.71% Asian, 0.11% from other races, and 0.66% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.49% of the population.

There were 703 households out of which 29.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.4% were married couples living together, 5.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.2% were non-families. 21.1% of all households were made up of individuals and 8.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 2.96.

 

More Cities of Interest in Connecticut

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