Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Hampden ME 04444 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Select an Xray Technician Degree Program near Hampden Maine

Hampden ME x-ray tech internship program Best wishes on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Hampden ME in order to become a radiologic technologist. And now that you have chosen to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you undertake picking the ideal college and program so that you will get the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And since most states do require that x-ray technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing test. So it’s important that you investigate each of the schools you are looking at so that you can compare each program. Many potential students start by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and usually settle on the most affordable cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into consideration, there are other important qualifiers also. For example, you must find out if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These inquiries and others you must ask the colleges you are evaluating are provided later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a radiology tech does and the credentials and education options that are offered.

Radiology Technician Career Description

There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. No matter what the name, each has the identical principal job function, 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 treating cancer. Some choose to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for instance mammography. They may work in Hampden ME clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist may 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 also frequently assess its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to keep complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Hampden ME medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Technician Degrees Offered

x-ray machine in Hampden ME The primary prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech program is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, generally takes 18 months to two years to complete depending on the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 4 years to complete and is more expansive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be appropriate also. One thing to consider is that Hampden ME radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It can often be fulfilled by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of schools offer through local hospitals and clinics in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Maine or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

After you have graduated from an x-ray technician college, based on the state where you will be working you might have to be licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites differ 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 licensing application, but a number approve additional alternatives for testing also. Some states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. Having said that, many Hampden ME employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online Radiology Technician Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Hampden 04444 As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree schools. So although you can still obtain your degree online, a substantial amount of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Clinical training is typically conducted in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. But the online portion of the training may be accessed in the comfort of your Hampden ME residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree typically discover that the online style of learning is far more practical with their active schedules. Plus online schools are generally cheaper than conventional options. Along with reduced tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be lessened as well. But just confirm that the online school you enroll in 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 an online degree may be the ideal choice for you.

What to Ask X Ray Tech Programs

When you have selected the type of degree that you would like to obtain, you can start the process of searching for and evaluating Hampden ME x-ray technician colleges. You will also have to decide if you want to attend classes online or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be critical. The price of tuition and secondary expenditures will be a determining variable as well. But along with cost and location, what more should you factor in when comparing colleges? Well, you should check out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial details before you make your decision, we have assembled a list of questions that you should ask the colleges you are looking at.

Are the Radiology Tech Programs Accredited? The majority of radiology tech schools have acquired some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still important to verify that the program and school are accredited. Among the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through an extensive examination of their teachers and course materials. If the college is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting agencies 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 help in acquiring financial assistance and student loans, which are frequently not accessible for non-accredited schools. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Hampden ME employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited program for entry level openings.

Are Internships Sponsored? Inquire if the Maine radiology tech colleges you are evaluating have associations with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a great means to get practical training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist students and graduates form professional relationships in the Hampden ME health care community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without help. Ask if the x-ray tech programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Hampden ME healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the School Located? For many students, the college they choose will need to be within commuting distance of their Hampden ME home. Students who have opted to attend classes online naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. Something to keep 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 might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the sort of student that likes to sit way in the back of class or hide in the crowd, you will undoubtedly want a small class size. Smaller classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Hampden ME schools you are reviewing what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your final 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 tech program as well.

Does the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must confirm that the radiographer school you ultimately pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you decide to continue working while attending classes. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Hampden ME, make sure that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would have to enroll in. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss due to work, illness or family obligations.

Why Did You Desire to Become an Xray Technician?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's advantageous to reflect on questions you could be asked. Among the things that hiring managers frequently ask radiographer prospects is "What drove you to decide on radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not merely the personal reasons you may have for being an X-Ray tech, but additionally what attributes and skills you possess that make you good at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, as well as a certain number of general interview questions, so you should ready a number of strategies about how you want to answer them. Since there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this primary question in a multitude of ways. When formulating an answer, aim to include the reasons the profession appeals to you as well as the strengths you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but write down several ideas and topics that relate to your own experiences and strengths. Reviewing sample answers can assist you to develop your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to include to wow the interviewer.

Pick the Best Radiology Tech College near Hampden ME

Selecting the best radiology tech degree program is an important first step toward beginning a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist must be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs typically stand for the majority of the workday 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 adhere to the safety requirements designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology 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 good work environment and furnish the best possible care to patients. As we have addressed in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each school you are assessing prior to making your ultimate decision. This is just as true whether you participate in an online program or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each program so you can narrow down your options before making your final choice. And with the appropriate education and your motivation to be successful, you can reach your goal to work as a radiology tech in Hampden ME.

Some Background on Hampden Maine

Hampden, Maine

Hampden is a town on the Penobscot River estuary in Penobscot County, Maine, United States.[5] The population was 7,257 at the 2010 census.[6] Hampden is part of the Bangor metropolitan statistical area.

The town was originally called Wheelersborough after its original settler, Benjamin Wheeler. It was incorporated on February 24, 1794, and named after the English patriot John Hampden.[7]

During the War of 1812, on September 3, 1814, about 400 local militia under the command of Brigadier General John Blake of nearby Brewer attempted to hold off a superior force of British regulars at Hampden. The American line, however, collapsed before a charge and was quickly routed. The Americans suffered one casualty with eleven wounded, and the British lost two (one an officer). A civilian spectator was also killed. The British fleet, which under command of Sir John Coape Sherbrooke (then lieutenant governor of Nova Scotia) had recently captured Castine, looted Hampden and nearby Bangor. They were trying to capture the USS Adams, a frigate with 750 men which had fled up the Penobscot River and anchored at Hampden. The crew of Adams, under Captain Charles Morris, burned the ship to prevent her capture and subsequently escaped overland.[8]

General Blake and two other officers, Lieutenant-Colonel Andrew Grant of Hampden and Major Joshua Chamberlain of Brewer (grandfather of Civil War general Joshua L. Chamberlain), were court-martialed in Bangor in 1816 for their part in the defeat. Blake and Chamberlain were both exonerated, but Grant was cashiered.[9]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 38.84 square miles (100.60 km2), of which, 37.94 square miles (98.26 km2) of it is land and 0.90 square miles (2.33 km2) is water.[2] It is drained by the Souadabscook Stream and Penobscot River.