Schools for X Ray Techs Seneca PA 16346 Archives - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Pick a Radiologic Tech Degree Program near Seneca Pennsylvania

Seneca PA x-ray tech internship program Best wishes on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Seneca PA in order to train to be a radiologic technician. And now that you have made a decision to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, just how do you go about selecting the right college and program to ensure that you will get the appropriate training to become a qualified practitioner? And because most states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you may require preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s essential that you assess each of the schools you are looking at in order to compare each program. A number of potential students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and frequently settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location need to be taken into account, there are other significant qualifications as well. For example, you need to find out if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internship programs. These questions and others you must ask the colleges you are examining are presented later in this post. But first, let’s explore what a radiologic tech does and the credentials and education choices that are offered.

Radiology Technician Occupation Description

There are multiple professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, they all have the same primary job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many opt to work as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for instance mammography. They may work in Seneca PA clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician may utilize 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 frequently assess its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to retain in-depth records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Seneca PA health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degrees Offered

x-ray machine in Seneca PA The basic prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the opportunity to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, usually takes 18 months to 2 years to complete based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as 4 years to complete and is more extensive in scope. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that are appropriate as well. One thing to consider is that Seneca PA radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It may typically be fulfilled by participating in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools sponsor through local hospitals and clinics in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Pennsylvania or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, based on the state where you will be practicing you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria vary so check with your state. At present, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several approve additional alternatives for testing as well. Some states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, many Seneca PA employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it could enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every 2 years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Technologist Schools

attending x-ray tech school online in Seneca 16346 As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So although you can still obtain your online degree, a large portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is usually carried out in regional hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. But the online segment of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Seneca PA home. Students who keep 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 often cheaper than on-campus alternatives. In addition to lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials can be decreased as well. But just confirm that the online program you select is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then online classes may be the best choice for you.

Questions to Ask Radiographer Schools

As soon as you have decided on the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can start the process of searching for and evaluating Seneca PA x-ray tech colleges. You will also have to decide if you want to attend online classes or travel to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be important. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a material factor as well. But along with cost and location, what more should you consider when comparing schools? Well, you need to find out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial details prior to making your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you must ask the schools you are looking at.

Are the X-Ray Tech Schools Accredited? Most radiology technician colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important to confirm that the school and program 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). Schools earning accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a rigorous assessment of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also help in securing financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous Seneca PA health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level positions.

Are Internships Sponsored? Inquire if the Pennsylvania xray tech schools you are assessing have partnerships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent manner to get practical training in a clinical environment, they are also a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they may help graduates and students develop professional relationships in the Seneca PA health care community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without help. Find out if the radiographer programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Seneca PA healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the College Located? For a lot of students, the school they select will need to be within travelling distance of their Seneca PA home. Those who have chosen to attend classes online naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. One thing to consider is that if you decide to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that prefers to sit far in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will likely want a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Seneca PA colleges you are reviewing what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with several of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program as well.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer school you finally pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly essential if you decide to continue working while you attend school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Seneca PA, confirm that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Choose to Be an Xray Technician?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's advantageous to consider questions you might be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers typically ask radiographer applicants is "What compelled you to decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to learn is not only the personal reasons you might have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what attributes and abilities you possess that make you outstanding at your profession. You will likely be asked questions relating specifically to radiography, along with a certain number of typical interview questions, so you should organize a number of ideas about how you would like to address them. Given that there are so many variables that go into choosing a career, you can respond to this fundamental question in a variety of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the work interests you as well as the talents you have that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the position. Don't attempt to memorize an answer, but take down a few concepts and anecdotes that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reading through sample responses can help you to formulate your own thoughts, and give you ideas of what to include to wow the interviewer.

Choose the Right Radiology Tech College near Seneca PA

Enrolling in the right x-ray technician degree program is an important first step toward starting a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist must be in good physical condition. Radiology techs often stand for the greater part of the workday and position and in some cases lift the patient to get the correct image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs 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 good work environment and deliver the best possible patient care. As has been addressed in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each program you are reviewing before making your ultimate decision. This is similarly true whether you decide on an online school or travel 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 appropriate education and your commitment to succeed, you can accomplish your goal to practice as a radiographer in Seneca PA.

Some Background on Seneca Pennsylvania

Piper PA-34 Seneca

The Piper PA-34 Seneca is an American twin-engined light aircraft, produced by Piper Aircraft since 1971 and that remains in production.[4][5][6] The Seneca is primarily used for personal and business flying.[1]

The Seneca was developed as a twin-engined version of the Piper Cherokee Six. The prototype was a Cherokee Six that had wing-mounted engines installed, retaining its nose engine. The prototype was flown as a tri-motor aircraft in the initial stages of the test-flying program.[1]

With the decision to abandon the three-engined design tested on the PA-32-3M, the PA-34 was developed as a twin-engined design. The prototype PA-34-180 Twin Six, registered N3401K first flew on 25 April 1967. The prototype had two 180 hp (134 kW) Lycoming O-360 engines, a fixed nosewheel landing gear and a Cherokee Six vertical tail. The second prototype flew on 30 August 1968, still with the 180 hp (134 kW) Lycomings but had retractable landing gear and a taller vertical tail. During development flying the wingspan was increased by two feet. The third prototype was closer to the production standard and flew on 20 October 1969; it was fitted with 200 hp (149 kW) Lycoming IO-360-A1A engines.[2]

Certified on 7 May 1971 and introduced in late 1971 as a 1972 model, the PA-34-200 Seneca I is powered by pair of Lycoming IO-360-C1E6 engines. The righthand engine is a Lycoming LIO-360-C1E6 engine variant, the "L" in its designation indicating that the crankshaft turns in the opposite direction, giving the Seneca I counter-rotating engines. The counter-rotating engines eliminate the critical engine limitations of other light twins and make the aircraft more controllable in the event of a shut down or failure of either engine.[4][6] A total of 934 Seneca I models were built, including one prototype.[6][7]

The early Seneca I models have a maximum gross weight of 4,000 lb (1,810 kg), while later serial numbers allowed a takeoff weight of 4,200 lb (1,910 kg).[6]