How to Select an X-Ray Technician Degree Program near Old Bethpage New York
Congratulations regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Old Bethpage NY in order to become a radiology technician. But now that you have made a decision to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, just how do you tackle selecting the right college and program so that you will get the proper training to become a skilled practitioner? And considering that the majority of states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you might need training to pass a licensing test. So it’s essential that you investigate each of the schools you are looking at so that you can compare each program. Most prospective students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and typically gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into account, there are additional significant qualifiers as well. For example, you should ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These inquiries and others you should ask the colleges you are evaluating are provided later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a x-ray tech does and the degrees and education options that are available.
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Radiology Tech Occupation Summary
There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, they all have 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 opt to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for example mammography. They can practice in Old Bethpage NY clinics, hospitals, family 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 maintain their equipment plus regularly evaluate its functionality and safety. They are also required to keep detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Old Bethpage NY health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.
Radiology Tech Degrees Available
The basic prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech school is to have received a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist pupils have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, generally takes 18 months to two years to finish based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as 4 years to finish and is more comprehensive in nature. Most students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be acceptable also. Something to consider is that Old Bethpage NY radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may frequently be satisfied by participating in an internship or externship program which many schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any licensing or certification mandates in New York or the state you will be working as applicable.
Radiologic Technologist Certification and Licensing
After you have graduated from an Radiologist program, depending on the state where you will be working you might need to be licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their criteria vary so contact your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but a number approve other options for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as a component of the licensing process, if not it is optional. Having said that, numerous Old Bethpage NY employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every two years, which can be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.
Online X-Ray Technician Degrees
As a component of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree programs. So while you can still earn your online degree, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an externship off-campus. Practical training is typically provided in local hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online segment of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Old Bethpage NY residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree typically discover that the online style of education is much more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online schools are frequently cheaper than conventional options. Along with lower tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials may be decreased as well. But just confirm that the online program you enroll in is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online degree may be the best choice for you.
What to Ask Radiologic Tech Colleges
As soon as you have chosen the type of degree that you want to obtain, you can start the process of looking for and assessing Old Bethpage NY x-ray tech colleges. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or travel to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then of course the location of the college will be relevant. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be an important variable also. But along with location and cost, what more should you look at when comparing schools? Well, you need to check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these important details prior to making your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you should ask the schools you are considering.
Are the X-Ray Technician Colleges Accredited? Most radiology technician schools have received some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still imperative to verify that the program and school 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 earning accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a detailed evaluation of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also assist in acquiring financial assistance and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Old Bethpage NY employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry level openings.
Are Internships Offered? Find out if the New York radiology technician programs you are interested in have relationships with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific manner to receive practical training in a clinical setting, they are additionally a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a secondary benefit, they can assist students and graduates establish professional relationships in the Old Bethpage NY healthcare community and help with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the radiographer schools you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Old Bethpage NY healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the College Located? For many students, the college they pick will need to be within driving distance of their Old Bethpage NY home. Those 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 importance. Something to bear in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a college that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually 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.
How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of person that prefers to sit way in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Small classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Old Bethpage NY schools you are reviewing what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you a chance to converse with some of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray technician program also.
Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the radiographer program you ultimately choose can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you decide to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Old Bethpage NY, make certain that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, check if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, find out what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.
Why Did You Choose to Become a Radiologic Technologist?
When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's important to review questions you could be asked. Among the things that hiring managers frequently ask radiographer applicants is "What compelled you to pick radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is hoping to learn is not merely the personal reasons you may have for being a radiology technician, but additionally what attributes and skills you have that make you good at your profession. You will probably be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, as well as a significant number of general interview questions, so you need to ready a number of strategies about how you would like to respond to them. Since there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a multitude of ways. When formulating an answer, attempt to include the reasons the profession interests you as well as the abilities you possess that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the ideal candidate for the position. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but take down some ideas and talking points that relate to your personal strengths and experiences. Going over sample responses can assist you to prepare your own concepts, and inspire ideas of what to include to impress the interviewer.Choose the Right X-Ray Tech Program near Old Bethpage NY
Selecting the ideal x-ray tech school is a critical first step toward initiating a satisfying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs typically stand for the greater part of the working day and move and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Candidates must also show an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to follow the safety requirements developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a must in order to have a good work environment and deliver the best available care to patients. As we have discussed in this report, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each program you are considering before making your final selection. This is equally true whether you enroll in an online program or commute to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each school so you can focus your choices before making your decision. And with the appropriate training and your motivation to succeed, you can achieve your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in Old Bethpage NY.
Some Background on Old Bethpage New York
Old Bethpage, New York
Old Bethpage is a hamlet and census-designated place (CDP) located on Long Island in the Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York, USA. The population of the CDP was 5,523 at the 2010 census.[1] It is served by the Old Bethpage Post Office, ZIP code 11804.
Old Bethpage and its neighboring hamlet, Plainview, share a school system, library, fire department and water district. Law enforcement for the community is provided by the Nassau County Police Department's Eighth Precinct.
In 1695, Thomas Powell bought about 10,000 acres (40 km2) from local Indian tribes, including the Marsapeque, Matinecoc, and Sacatogue, for 140 English pounds. This land, which includes present day Bethpage, East Farmingdale, Farmingdale, Old Bethpage, Plainedge, Plainview, South Farmingdale, and part of Melville, is known as the Bethpage Purchase and is approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) east to west and 5 miles (8.0 km) north to south.
Powell called his land Bethphage, because it was situated between two other places on Long Island, Jericho and Jerusalem, just as the biblical town of Bethphage (meaning "house of figs") was situated between Jericho and Jerusalem. Today, the Long Island place formerly called Jerusalem is known as Wantagh and Island Trees, while the placename Jericho is unaltered. Over time, Bethpage was spelled without the second "H". Powell's 14 children split up his purchase and it evolved into several farming communities, and the one in this mostly central part of the purchase retained the name "Bethpage".
A railroad spur completed in 1873, known as the Bethpage Branch of the Central Railroad of Long Island,[2] ran to a brickworks plant which had opened in Old Bethpage in the 1860s. The railway was built to transport bricks for the construction of Alexander Stewart's Garden City.[3][4] For a few years, regularly scheduled passenger traffic also appeared in timetables, with the station being called Bethpage. The line was abandoned in 1942. Remnants of a locomotive turntable can be found in the woods of Bethpage State Park on the east side of Round Swamp Road.[5][6] The brickyard continued operations under different owners until 1981, with different sections known variously as Bethpage Brickworks, Queens County Brick Manufacturing Company, Post Brick Company, and (after Nassau County split from Queens County in 1899) Nassau Brick Company.[7] The pitted terrain at the brickworks was used in investigations by Grumman for digital mapping of Earth.[8]
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