Tag Archives: How to Become an X Ray Technician Oakdale CA 95361

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Oakdale CA 95361

How to Find an Xray Technician Program near Oakdale California

Oakdale CA x-ray tech internship programCongratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Oakdale CA in order to train to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you set about choosing the right college and program so that you will get the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And because most states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently practice you may need training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you investigate each of the schools you are looking at so that you can compare each program. A number of potential students begin by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and often gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into account, there are additional significant qualifiers also. For instance, you must ask if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These inquiries and others you should ask the schools you are reviewing are provided later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray technician does and the degrees and education choices that are available.

Radiology Tech Work Description

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, they all have the identical primary job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some opt to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for instance mammography. They may practice in Oakdale CA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician might utilize include:

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

Radiographers have to take care of their equipment and frequently assess its performance and safety. They are also required to keep in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Oakdale CA medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degree Options

x-ray machine in Oakdale CAThe standard prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech college is to have received a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, generally requires 18 months to two years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as four years to complete and is more comprehensive in nature. Most students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be appropriate also. Something to keep in mind is that Oakdale CA radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It can typically be fulfilled by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in their region. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any licensing or certification requirements in California or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Certification and Licensing

After you have graduated from an X-Ray tech program, depending on the state where you will be practicing you might have to be licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but many approve additional options for testing also. Some states also call for certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. However, numerous Oakdale CA employers favor hiring radiology techs that have earned certification so it might increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every other year, which can be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Technologist Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Oakdale 95361As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree programs. So while you can still earn your degree online, a significant amount of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is usually provided in regional hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online segment of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Oakdale CA home. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online style of education is far more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are often more affordable than conventional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be decreased as well. But just make certain that the online college you enroll in is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then online classes may be the best option for you.

What to Ask Radiology Tech Schools

After you have decided on the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of finding and assessing Oakdale CA x-ray technician schools. You will also have to decide if you want to attend online classes or commute to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the college will be relevant. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a material variable also. But along with cost and location, what else should you look at when comparing schools? Well, you need to ask if the schools are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these important details before you make your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the schools you are looking at.

Are the Radiology Technician Programs Accredited? A large number of xray technician schools have obtained some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still imperative to confirm that the school and program are accredited. Among 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 gone through a rigorous evaluation of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also assist in obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And numerous Oakdale CA health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited college for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Ask if the California xray technician colleges you are assessing have associations with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only a great way to receive practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to fulfill the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can assist graduates and students form professional relationships in the Oakdale CA health care community and help with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the radiographer schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Oakdale CA healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the School Located? For many students, the school they choose will have to be within travelling distance of their Oakdale CA home. Students who have decided to attend online classes obviously will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. Something to consider is that if you choose to enroll in a program 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 to those students that live outside of their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of person that likes to sit way in the back of class or get lost in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Oakdale CA colleges you are researching 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 final decision. This will also give you a chance to converse with several of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program as well.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the x-ray tech  school you finally pick can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you decide to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Oakdale CA, make certain that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an option 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 may miss because of illness, work or family obligations.

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

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's important to consider questions you may be asked. One of the things that hiring managers typically ask radiographer applicants is "What drove you to decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to discover is not merely the private reasons you might have for being an Xray technician, but also what characteristics and skills you have that make you good at what you do. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, in addition to a certain number of standard interview questions, so you must prepare several approaches about how you want to address them. Considering there are numerous variables that go into selecting a career, you can address this primary question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the profession appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the ideal candidate for the job. Don't attempt to memorize a response, but jot down some ideas and topics that relate to your own experiences and strengths. Reviewing sample answers can assist you to develop your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Enroll in the Ideal Radiology Technician College near Oakdale CA

Selecting the appropriate radiology technician degree program is an important first step toward launching a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs typically stand for the greater part of the working day and position and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also show an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements 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. Having interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a pleasant work environment and deliver the best possible care to patients. As has been covered in this post, there are a number of questions that you should ask each school you are assessing before making your final decision. This is similarly true whether you participate in an online program or drive to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can assess and compare each college so you can narrow down your options before making your decision. And with the proper education and your motivation to be successful, you can reach your goal to work as a x-ray tech in Oakdale CA.

Some Background on Oakdale California

Oakdale, California

Oakdale is a city in the San Joaquin Valley and Stanislaus County, California. It is part of the Modesto Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Oakdale goes by the slogan "Cowboy Capital of the World." The population was 20,675 at the 2010 census, up from 15,503 at the 2000 census.

The city was founded in 1871 when the Stockton and Visalia Railroad met the Copperopolis Railroad. The site of Taylor's Ferry Crossing is located in Oakdale, a crossing of the Stanislaus River on the 19th century Stockton - Los Angeles Road.

Oakdale California was used as a film location for the United Artists motion picture Bound For Glory (1976) starring David Carradine. There is a scene where hoboes were herded off on a westbound train by railroad cops. Oakdale doubled as a dusty 'Texas' town using railroad scenes for the film.

The city is located on the Stanislaus River in the east-central portion of the San Joaquin Valley, adjacent to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. California State Routes 108 and 120 (Tioga Pass Road) intersect in the city.

 

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