How to Choose an X-Ray Technician School near Decatur Arkansas
Best wishes regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Decatur AR so you can train to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have chosen to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you set about picking the ideal college and program so that you will get the proper training to become a qualified professional? And since most states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you might require training to pass a licensing test. So it’s important that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. Most potential students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and typically settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location must be taken into account, there are other critical qualifiers also. For example, you should find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the colleges you are considering are presented later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and education options that are offered.
X-Ray Technician Job Description
There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, they all have the same primary job function, which is to employ 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. Many elect to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for instance mammography. They may practice in Decatur AR 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 must care for their equipment and also frequently analyze its functionality and safety. They are additionally required to keep in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Decatur AR medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.
X-Ray Technician Degrees Available
The primary requirement for attending an x-ray tech school is to have received 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 common among technicians, usually requires 18 months to 2 years to finish depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer 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 other similar majors that are appropriate also. One thing to bear in mind is that Decatur AR radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It may typically be satisfied by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing mandates in Arkansas or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing
When you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, depending on the state where you will be employed you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so contact your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but many accept additional options for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as a component of the licensing procedure, if not it is optional. However, numerous Decatur AR employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which may be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.
Online X-Ray Technician Programs
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 the same for online degree programs. So although you can still obtain your degree online, a considerable amount of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Clinical training is typically carried out in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Decatur AR home. Students who continue working while earning their degree often find that the online approach to education is much more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online programs are generally more affordable than conventional options. Along with reduced tuition, expenses for study materials and commuting can be lessened as well. But just confirm that the online school you select is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then an online school may be the best option for you.
What to Ask Radiographer Colleges
After you have chosen the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can start the process of searching for and evaluating Decatur AR x-ray tech colleges. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or commute to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then of course the location of the school will be critical. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a material variable as well. But in addition to cost and location, what more should you factor in when reviewing schools? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you learn some of these essential details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you need to ask the programs you are assessing.
Are the Radiology Tech Colleges Accredited? The majority of xray tech schools have acquired some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still crucial to confirm that the school and program are accredited. One of the most highly regarded accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a detailed assessment of their teachers and educational materials. If the school is online it might also earn 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. In addition to ensuring a quality education, accreditation will also assist in acquiring 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 numerous Decatur AR employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited program for entry level positions.
Are Internship Programs Provided? Inquire if the Arkansas xray technician colleges you are evaluating have relationships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific manner to get hands on training in a clinical setting, they are also a means to satisfy the practical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they can help students and graduates form professional relationships in the Decatur AR health care community and assist with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the radiographer programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Decatur AR healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they select will need to be within driving distance of their Decatur AR home. Students who have decided to attend classes online obviously will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. Something to bear in mind is that if you decide 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 often 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 Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of student that prefers to sit far in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will likely want a smaller class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Decatur AR schools you are reviewing what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you a chance to talk with some of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the x-ray technician program as well.
Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must confirm that the radiographer college you finally select can furnish 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 Decatur AR, confirm that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss due to work, illness or family emergencies.
Why Did You Desire to Become an X-Ray Tech?
When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's important to reflect on questions you may be asked. Among the things that recruiters frequently ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to pick radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to discover is not just the private reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but also what qualities and abilities you have that make you exceptional at what you do. You will likely be asked questions relating exclusively to radiography, in addition to a certain number of standard interview questions, so you should ready several strategies about how you would like to answer them. Considering there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this fundamental question in a number of ways. When formulating an answer, try to include the reasons the profession appeals to you as well as the strengths you possess that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the perfiect choice for the position. Don't attempt to memorize a response, but jot down a few ideas and topics that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Going over sample answers can assist you to prepare your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the recruiter.Select the Ideal X-Ray Technician School near Decatur AR
Selecting the best x-ray tech school is a crucial first step toward starting a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the greater part of the day and position and in some cases lift the patient to get 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 technicians 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 pleasant work environment and provide the best available patient care. As has been covered in this post, there are several questions that you should ask each program you are considering before making your ultimate decision. This is equally true whether you decide on an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can analyze and compare each college so you can narrow down your options before making your decision. And with the right training and your dedication to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to work as a radiology tech in Decatur AR.
Some Background on Decatur Arkansas
Decatur, Arkansas
Decatur is a city, in Benton County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 1,699 at the 2010 census.[3] It is part of the Fayetteville–Springdale–Rogers, AR-MO Metropolitan Statistical Area. This town is named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, Jr.
Decatur is located in western Benton County at 36°20′15″N 94°27′24″W / 36.33750°N 94.45667°W / 36.33750; -94.45667 (36.337541, -94.456721).[4]Arkansas Highway 59 passes through the city, leading north 6 miles (10 km) to Gravette and 13 miles (21 km) to the Missouri border, and south 13 miles (21 km) to Siloam Springs. Arkansas Highway 102 leads east 16 miles (26 km) to Bentonville and west 10 miles (16 km) to the Oklahoma border.
According to the United States Census Bureau, Decatur has a total area of 4.5 square miles (11.7 km2), of which 4.4 square miles (11.5 km2) is land and 0.039 square miles (0.1 km2), or 1.21%, is water.[3]
As of the 2010 census Decatur had a population of 1,699. The racial and ethnic makeup of the population was 62.4% non-Hispanic white, 0.5% non-Hispanic black, 4.3% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 5.2% from two or more races and 28.4% Hispanic or Latino.[8]
As of the census[9] of 2000, there were 1,314 people, 465 households, and 346 families residing in the city. The population density was 573.0 people per square mile (221.5/km²). There were 535 housing units at an average density of 233.3 per square mile (90.2/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 80.97% White, 5.48% Native American, 0.46% Asian, 10.12% from other races, and 2.97% from two or more races. 16.51% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.
More Cities of Interest in Arkansas