How to Choose the Right Radiology Technician School near Hampton Virginia
So you have made the decision to enroll in an X-ray tech school near Hampton VA in order to train to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have chosen to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, how do you go about choosing the right college and program to ensure that you will get the proper training to become a skilled practitioner? And since the majority of states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, depending on where you subsequently practice you may need training to pass a licensing test. So it’s essential that you research each of the X-ray technician schools you are looking at in order to compare each program. A number of students start by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and typically gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location need to be considered, there are other important qualifiers also. For instance, you must find out whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you should ask the X-ray Tech schools you are reviewing are presented later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a x-ray tech does and the credentials and training options that are available.
X-Ray Tech Job Description in Hampton VA
There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, they all have the same primary job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some choose to work as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, such as mammography. They may practice in Hampton VA hospitals, clinics, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech 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 plus regularly evaluate its performance and safety. They are also required to keep detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
Click Here For Free Information on X-Ray Tech Schools Near You!
X-Ray Technician Degree Options near Hampton VA
The standard requirement for attending an x-ray tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, 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 4 years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that are acceptable also. One thing to keep in mind is that radiographer schools have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may frequently be fulfilled by taking part in an internship or externship program which many colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in Hampton VA or their region. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing mandates in Virginia or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-ray Technician Licensing and Certification
When you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, depending on the state where you will be employed you may need to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their criteria vary so get in touch with your state. At present, all states that do require licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but a number provide other alternatives for testing as well. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. However, many Hampton area employers will only hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might increase your career options in and around Hampton VA 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 calls for re-certification every 2 years, which can be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.
Online Radiology Technologist Programs
As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree programs. So although you can still earn your online degree, a substantial amount of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is usually performed in Hampton VA family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online portion of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Hampton residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree usually discover that the online approach to learning is much more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online schools are often cheaper than conventional options. In addition to reduced tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials can be decreased as well. But just confirm that the online program you choose is accredited (more on the advantages 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.
What to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges
After you have decided on the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can initiate the process of finding and evaluating x-ray tech schools near Hampton VA. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then of course the location of the school will be critical. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be a material factor also. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you look at when comparing colleges? Well, you should check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you learn some of these important details prior to making your decision, we have assembled a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are reviewing.
Are the X-Ray Technician Programs Accredited? The majority of xray technician schools have obtained some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still important to confirm 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). Programs receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a detailed examination of their instructors and educational materials. If the school is online it might also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a quality education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are often not offered for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Hampton VA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry-level positions.
Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Ask if the radiology tech programs you are assessing have relationships with regional clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only a great manner to receive practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a means to satisfy the practical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can help graduates and students form professional connections in the Hampton VA healthcare community and assist with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in Hampton VA in a new field can be difficult without support. Find out if the radiographer programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Virginia healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Program Located? For many students, the college they decide on will have to be within commuting distance of their Hampton VA home. Individuals who have decided to attend online classes naturally will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. One thing to keep 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 may have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges commonly charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges typically charge a higher tuition for those students that don’t reside within their districts.
What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of student that prefers to sit way in the rear of class or hide in the crowd, you will undoubtedly prefer a small class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Hampton VA colleges you are reviewing what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to speak with some of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program also.
Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must confirm that the radiographer school you finally pick can provide the class schedule you need. This is particularly essential if you opt to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in the Hampton VA area, make sure that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to enroll in. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss because of work, illness or family obligations.
Xray Tech Training Hampton VA
Enrolling in the appropriate radiology tech degree program is a crucial first step toward beginning a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist must be in good physical shape. Radiology techs frequently stand for the greater part of the day and move and in some cases lift the patient to get the proper image. Prospects must also show an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to observe the safety guidelines designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and deliver the best possible care to patients. You originally came to this website due to an interest in Xray Tech Training and wanting more information on the topic How to Become an X Ray Technician. However, as we have covered in this post, there are several questions that you should ask each college you are reviewing prior to making your ultimate selection. This is equally true whether you participate in an online school or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze 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 realize your goal to work as a X-ray tech in Hampton VA.
Other Virginia Diagnostic Locations
Hampton, Virginia
Hampton traces its history to the city's Old Point Comfort, the home of Fort Monroe for almost 400 years, which was named by the 1607 voyagers, led by Captain Christopher Newport, who first established Jamestown as an English colonial settlement. Since consolidation in 1952, Hampton has included the former Elizabeth City County and the incorporated town of Phoebus, consolidated by a mutual agreement.
After the end of the American Civil War, historic Hampton University was established opposite from the town on the Hampton River, providing an education for many newly-freed former slaves and for area Native Americans. In the 20th century, the area became the location of Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and the Virginia Air and Space Center. Hampton features many miles of waterfront and beaches.
For residents and visitors alike, the city features a wide array of business and industrial enterprises, retail and residential areas, and historical sites. Most recently, the new Peninsula Town Center development opened in May 2010 on the site of the former Coliseum Mall. Located in the area adjacent to the Hampton Coliseum and the Convention Center, the new urbanism-type project features a wide mix of retail stores, housing and other attractions.[9] Development of new residential development and additional public facilities (such as the new fishing pier recently opened) are underway at Buckroe Beach, long a noted resort area.[10]
Business Results 1 - 10 of 4
12 Reviews 
42 Reviews 
6 Reviews 
10 Reviews 