How to Select the Best X-Ray Technician College near Brownfield Maine
So you have decided to enroll in an X-ray tech school near Brownfield ME in order to train to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have decided 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 because most states do mandate that x-ray technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you may need preparation to pass a licensing examination. So it’s important that you research each of the X-ray technician schools you are looking at in order to compare each program. Many students start by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and often settle on the most affordable cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into account, there are additional significant qualifications as well. For example, you need to find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These questions and others you should ask the X-ray Tech schools you are considering are provided later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic tech does and the credentials and training options that are available.
X-Ray Tech Occupation Summary in Brownfield ME
There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, each has the same principal job description, which is to employ 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 elect to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for example mammography. They may work in Brownfield ME clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech might 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 care for their equipment plus frequently assess its functionality and safety. They are also required to retain detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.
Click Here For Free Information on X-Ray Tech Schools Near You!
Radiology Technician Degree Options near Brownfield ME
The basic prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech program is to have earned 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 prevalent among techs, usually takes 18 months to two years to complete depending on the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as four years to complete and is more expansive in scope. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be acceptable as well. One thing to consider is that radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It may typically be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which many colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in Brownfield ME or their area. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must abide by any certification or licensing mandates in Maine or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
X-Ray Tech Licensing and Certification
After you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, based on the state where you will be working you may need to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their prerequisites vary so check with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but a number accept additional options for testing also. A number of states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. However, numerous Brownfield area employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it may improve your career options in and around Brownfield ME to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which may be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.
Online Radiology Technologist Degrees
As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree colleges. So even though 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 often provided in Brownfield ME hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online segment of the training may be accessed in the privacy of your Brownfield residence. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree often find that the online approach to education is far more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are often less expensive than on-campus alternatives. Along with reduced tuition, costs for commuting and study materials can be lessened also. But just confirm that the online school you enroll in is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured style of training, then online classes may be the best choice for you.
Points to Ask Radiologic Tech Colleges
When you have selected the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can initiate the process of searching for and evaluating x-ray tech colleges near Brownfield ME. You will also have to decide if you want to attend online classes or travel to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be critical. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a determining factor as well. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you look at when comparing colleges? Well, you need to ask if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these important details before you make your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you should ask the programs you are assessing.
Are the X-Ray Tech Colleges Accredited? A large number of xray tech colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still important to verify 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 obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through an extensive examination of their instructors and course materials. If the college is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides ensuring a quality education, accreditation will also assist in getting financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Brownfield ME health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited program for entry level positions.
Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Ask if the radiology technician programs you are assessing have partnerships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only a great way to receive practical experience in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to satisfy the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist graduates and students form professional relationships in the Brownfield ME medical community and help with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in Brownfield ME in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the radiographer schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Maine 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 select will have to be within travelling distance of their Brownfield ME residence. Those who have decided to attend classes online naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. 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 be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition for those students that don’t reside within their districts.
How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of student that prefers to sit far in the back of class or get lost in the crowd, you will likely prefer a small class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Brownfield ME schools you are reviewing what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you a chance to speak with several of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program also.
Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the radiographer program you ultimately pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you choose to continue working while you attend school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in the Brownfield ME area, verify that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss due to illness, work or family emergencies.
Schools That Have Radiology Technician Programs Brownfield ME
Choosing the appropriate x-ray technician college is a crucial first step toward launching a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer should be in good physical condition. Radiology techs frequently stand for the majority of the day and position and at times lift the patient to get the correct image. Prospects must also demonstrate a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing social skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and deliver the best possible care to patients. You originally came to this website due to an interest in Schools That Have Radiology Technician Programs and wanting more information on the topic Where to Find Accredited Radiologic Technologist Schools. However, as we have addressed in this article, there are several questions that you should ask each school you are looking at before making your final decision. This is equally true whether you decide on an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can examine and compare each school so you can focus your options and make your final choice. And with the appropriate education and your commitment to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to practice as a X-ray tech in Brownfield ME.
Other Maine Diagnostic Locations
Brownfield, Maine
The area was once territory of the Pequawket Abenaki Indians, whose main village was located at what is today Fryeburg. It was granted on January 23, 1764 by the Massachusetts General Court to Captain Henry Young Brown for his services in the French and Indian Wars. Settlement began about 1765. Brown was required to settle 38 families by June 10, 1770, with a minister recruited by 3 years after that. Unfortunately, a portion of the original grant was found to lie in New Hampshire.[4]
Replacement land in Maine was granted to Brown on June 25, 1766. It was called Brownfield Addition, one part of which now lies within Hiram and Denmark. The township was first organized as Brownfield Plantation, named in honor of its principal proprietor. On February 20, 1802, it was incorporated as Brownfield. By the War of 1812, it had nearly 900 residents.[4]
Farming was the chief occupation, with the Saco River providing water power for industry. Products of the mills included flour, long lumber, barrel staves, rocking chairs, clothing, carriages, sleighs and harness. After the Civil War, the Portland and Ogdensburg Railroad passed through the town, following the general course of the river.[5]
Business Results 1 - 10 of 0
