Schools for Radiology Techs Kent WA 98031 Archives - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Find a Radiology Technician Degree Program near Kent Washington

Kent WA x-ray tech internship program Congratulations on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Kent WA so you can learn to be a radiologic technologist. And now that you have chosen to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you go about selecting the right school and program so that you will obtain the proper training to become a skilled practitioner? And considering that most states do require that x-ray technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you may require preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s essential that you research each of the colleges you are considering so that you can compare each program. Most students begin by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and typically gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while cost and location need to be considered, there are additional critical qualifiers as well. For example, you must ask if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These inquiries and others you should ask the colleges you are reviewing are presented later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a radiology tech does and the credentials and education choices that are offered.

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Radiology Technician Job Description

There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, each has the identical 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 administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some elect to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for example mammography. They can work in Kent WA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician may work with 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 routinely assess its functionality and safety. They are also required to keep in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Kent WA health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Technician Degrees

x-ray machine in Kent WA The standard requirement for enrolling in a radiology tech program is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among technicians, generally requires 18 months to two years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to four years to finish and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that are acceptable as well. One thing to keep in mind is that Kent WA radiographer schools have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may frequently be fulfilled by participating in an externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any certification or licensing mandates in Washington or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing

When you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, based on the state where you will be working you may need to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their criteria vary so check with your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several accept additional options for testing as well. Several states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. However, numerous Kent WA employers will only hire radiology techs that are certified so it may improve 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 examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two 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 Kent 98031 As a component of any 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 even though you can still earn your online degree, a significant portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is often performed in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training may be accessed in the privacy of your Kent WA home. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online style of education is much more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are generally less expensive than traditional options. Along with reduced tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting can be decreased also. But just make certain that the online program you select 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 best choice for you.

Subjects to Ask Radiographer Schools

Once you have selected the type of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of locating and assessing Kent WA x-ray technician schools. You will also need to decide if you want to attend classes online or commute to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the college will be important. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be a determining variable as well. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you factor in when comparing colleges? 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 crucial details before you make your decision, we have assembled a list of questions that you need to ask the schools you are considering.

Are the Radiology Technician Colleges Accredited? Most xray technician schools have acquired some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still important 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 rigorous assessment of their teachers and course materials. If the school is online it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a quality education, accreditation will also assist in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are frequently not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And a number of Kent WA health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level openings.

Are Internships Provided? Ask if the Washington xray technician programs you are interested in have partnerships with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a great manner to obtain practical experience in a clinical setting, they are additionally a way to satisfy the practical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they may assist students and graduates form professional connections in the Kent WA healthcare community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Ask if the radiographer schools you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Kent WA healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the Program Located? For a lot of students, the college they choose will have to be within driving distance of their Kent WA residence. Students who have opted to attend classes online obviously will not have to trouble 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 college that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges often charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the type of student that likes to sit far in the rear of class or get lost in the crowd, you will likely prefer a smaller class size. Small classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Kent WA schools you are reviewing what the average teacher to student 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 an opportunity to talk with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program also.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you need to confirm that the radiographer program you finally pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you choose to continue working while you attend school. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Kent WA, 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, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss because of illness, work or family emergencies.

Why Did You Choose to Become an Xray Technician?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to consider questions you may be asked. One of the questions that interviewers often ask radiographer prospects is "What drove you to decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to discover is not just the personal reasons you might have for becoming an Xray technician, but additionally what characteristics and abilities you possess that make you outstanding at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, in addition to a significant number of routine interview questions, so you must organize a number of ideas about how you want to answer them. Considering there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can address this fundamental question in a multitude of ways. When readying an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work appeals to you as well as the talents you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the perfiect choice for the position. Don't try to memorize an answer, but take down some ideas and talking points that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reviewing sample responses can assist you to formulate your own concepts, and inspire ideas of what to include to wow the recruiter.

Enroll in the Ideal X-Ray Tech College near Kent WA

Choosing the right radiology technician degree program is a critical first step toward launching a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs often stand for the greater part of the working day and position and sometimes lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Prospects must also demonstrate a capability to pay close attention to detail and to follow the safety requirements designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a must in order to have a productive work environment and furnish the best available patient care. As we have covered in this post, there are several questions that you need to ask each school you are assessing before making your ultimate decision. This is just as true whether you opt for an online program or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each school so you can narrow down your options and make your final choice. And with the appropriate education and your commitment to be successful, you can realize your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in Kent WA.

Some Background on Kent Washington

Kent, Washington

Kent is a city located in King County, Washington, United States. It is the sixth largest city in the state and third largest in the county. Kent is in the heart of the Seattle–Tacoma metropolitan area, located 19 miles south of Seattle and 19 miles northeast of Tacoma. Incorporated in 1890, it is the second oldest incorporated city in King County, after Seattle.[6] Kent's population as of April, 2010 was 92,411 according to the 2010 census. The total grew to an estimated 126,952 as of July 1, 2015,[4] owing primarily to annexation.

The Kent area was first permanently settled by European Americans in the early to mid 1850's along the banks of (what was then) the White River. The first settler was Samuel Russell who sailed the White and Duamish rivers until he claimed a plot of land southeast of modern-day downtown Kent in the spring of 1853. Russel was followed by several other settlers who quickly staked claims in the area.[7] The settlements were originally known as "White River" and later the town was called Titusville after an early settler by the name of James Henry Titus.[8] (There is still a 'Titusville Station' sign on Gowe Street near First Avenue). In 1861 a post office was established under the name White River and was located at the farm of David and Irena Neely who settled in modern-day Kent in 1854. In 1855 their farm was attacked by Native Americans when David Neely served as a lieutenant in the Territorial Army. By 1870 the population was 277 and all of the quality bottom-land had been claimed.[9]

Throughout the 1860s and 70's grain and forage crops such as wheat, barley, oats, hay, and timothy accounted for much of the annual return of farmers in the valley. During the late 1870s the town discovered hops production as the major source of income.[10] Due to an aphid invasion which affected hops crops in Europe,[11] hops from the Puget Sound area were commanding high prices. Hops were shipped from Titusville either by the river or via rail. In 1889 the town was renamed for the County of Kent, the major hops producing region in England. Hops production in the White River valley came to an end soon after its own invasion of aphids in 1891.[12]

Kent was officially incorporated on May 28, 1890 with a population of 793, the second city incorporated in King County.[13] Seattle was the first.

After the turn of the 20th century the area turned to dairy farming, and was home to a Carnation Condensed Milk plant.[14][15]Flooding from both the Green and the White Rivers was a constant problem. In 1906, flooding changed the course of the White River, which reduced the flood hazard by half. The Green River continued to present problems until the creation of the Howard A. Hanson Dam at Eagle Gorge in 1962.[16][17]