How to Become an X Ray Technician Richmond MI 48062 Archives

How to Select a Radiologic Tech Program near Richmond Michigan

Richmond MI x-ray tech internship program Congrats regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Richmond MI so you can train to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you tackle selecting the ideal school and program to ensure that you will get the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And considering that most states do mandate that radiology techs become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you might need training to pass a licensing test. So it’s imperative that you research each of the colleges you are looking at 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 homes. Next, they compare tuition and usually settle on the most affordable cost. But while expense and location must be taken into consideration, there are additional important qualifiers also. For example, you need to find out if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they offer internship programs. These inquiries and others you should ask the colleges you are evaluating are presented later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and education choices that are offered.

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Radiology Tech Job Summary

There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, each has the same primary job description, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many opt to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for example mammography. They can work in Richmond MI hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech may work with include:

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

Radiographers must maintain their equipment plus regularly evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to retain detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Richmond MI health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

X-Ray Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Richmond MI The standard prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech college is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, generally requires 18 months to 2 years to complete 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 comprehensive in nature. Most students opt for 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 Richmond MI radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It may frequently 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 area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any licensing or certification mandates in Michigan or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, based on the state where you will be practicing you might need to be licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so check with your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but many provide additional alternatives for testing as well. Several states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, if not it is optional. However, many Richmond MI employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it may improve your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every other year, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Technician Classes

attending x-ray tech school online in Richmond 48062 As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree programs. So even though you can still obtain your degree online, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is typically provided in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online segment of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Richmond MI residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online style of education is far more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are frequently less costly than on-campus 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 enroll in 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 degree may be the right option for you.

Topics to Ask X Ray Tech Programs

When you have decided on the type of degree that you want to obtain, you can initiate the process of looking for and assessing Richmond MI x-ray technician colleges. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be critical. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenditures will be an important variable as well. But in addition to cost and location, what more should you factor in when reviewing colleges? Well, you should ask if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial 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 Programs Accredited? The majority of radiology technician schools have received some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Nevertheless, it’s still crucial to verify 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). Schools earning accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous examination of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides ensuring a quality education, accreditation will also help in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Richmond MI employers will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry-level openings.

Are Internships Offered? Find out if the Michigan radiology technician programs you are assessing have relationships with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent way to receive hands on experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to satisfy the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they may assist graduates and students form professional relationships in the Richmond MI medical community and help with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the radiographer schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Richmond MI healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the college they choose will need to be within travelling distance of their Richmond MI residence. Those who have chosen to attend online classes naturally will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local 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 may have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges commonly charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges often charge a higher tuition for those students that don’t reside within their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of person that likes to sit way in the back of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a small class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Richmond MI colleges you are reviewing 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 several of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the x-ray technician program also.

Does the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer school you ultimately pick can provide the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you opt to continue working while you attend school. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Richmond MI, 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 have to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss because of illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Choose to Be a Radiologic Technologist?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's a good idea to reflect on questions you might be asked. One of the questions that interviewers typically ask radiographer applicants is "What made you decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to discover is not just the private reasons you may have for becoming an Xray technician, but also what characteristics and abilities you possess that make you good at what you do. You will undoubtedly be asked questions relating specifically to radiography, as well as a significant number of standard interview questions, so you need to ready some approaches about how you want to answer them. Since there are so many factors that go into choosing a career, you can respond to this primary question in a multitude of ways. When readying an answer, try to include the reasons the profession appeals to you as well as the abilities you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the job. Don't try to memorize an answer, but write down some concepts and topics that pertain to your own experiences and strengths. Reviewing sample answers can help you to develop your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Enroll in the Best X-Ray Tech Program near Richmond MI

Selecting the ideal radiology technician school is a crucial first step toward initiating a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist must be in good physical shape. Radiology techs regularly stand for the greater part of the day and move and in some cases lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Having social skills is a must in order to have a productive work environment and furnish the best available care to patients. As we have discussed in this post, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each college you are reviewing prior to making your final selection. This is similarly true whether you opt for an online program or commute to classes on-campus. By asking the right questions you can examine and compare each program so you can focus your options and make your final choice. And with the proper education and your commitment to succeed, you can reach your goal to work as a x-ray tech in Richmond MI.

Some Background on Richmond Michigan

Richmond, Michigan

Richmond is a city on the border between Macomb and St. Clair counties within Metro Detroit and the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 5,735 at the 2010 census. Most of the city is located in Macomb County, though there is a small portion in St. Clair County. The city is adjacent to Richmond Township and Lenox Township in Macomb County, although it is administratively autonomous. It is also adjacent to St. Clair County's Columbus Township and Casco Township.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.89 square miles (7.49 km2), of which 2.85 square miles (7.38 km2) is land and 0.04 square miles (0.10 km2) is water.[1]

As of the census[9] of 2010, there were 5,735 people residing in the city. The population density was 2,012.3 inhabitants per square mile (777.0/km2). There were 2,479 housing units at an average density of 869.8 per square mile (335.8/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 94.2% White, 1.0% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 2.6% from other races, and 1.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.6% of the population.

As of the census[2] of 2000, there were 4,897 people, 1,977 households, and 1,332 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,691.6 per square mile (654.2/km²). There were 2,062 housing units at an average density of 712.3 per square mile (275.5/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 95.43% White, 0.25% African American, 0.31% Native American, 0.82% Asian, 0.18% Pacific Islander, 1.86% from other races, and 1.16% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.74% of the population.

There were 1,977 households out of which 31.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.1% were married couples living together, 10.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.6% were non-families. 27.8% of all households were made up of sole individuals and 11.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.99.