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If you’re interested in becoming a X-Ray Technician, you’re probably wondering what you need to do to get started. Here’s a quick overview of the steps you’ll need to take to become a X-Ray Technician.
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Education
Most x-ray technicians have an associate’s degree in radiologic technology. Some have a bachelor’s degree, but this is not always required. After completing an accredited program, you will then need to obtain a state license in order to practice.
Research schools and programs
To research schools and programs, visit the websites of schools that interest you and look for:
-Accreditation status
-What the program will cost
-How long the program takes to complete
-The types of clinical experiences available
-Class size
-The ratio of X-ray technicians to patients in clinical settings
You can also read about other students’ experiences in online forums and on social media.
Consider an accredited program
Choosing an accredited program is one of the most important things you can do when you’re looking to become a X-ray technician. While there are many schools and programs out there that offer X-ray training, not all of them are created equal.
An accredited program has been vetted by an external body and found to meet certain standards. This means that you can be confident you’re getting a high-quality education that will prepare you for your career.
When you’re looking at schools, make sure to check whether they are accredited by a recognized body such as the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Choosing an accredited program is one of the best things you can do to set yourself up for success as a X-ray technician.
Certification
There are a few things you need to do to become an X-Ray Technician. One of the most important is getting certified. Certification ensures that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the job safely and effectively. There are a few different ways to become certified, but the most common is to pass an exam administered by an accredited organization.
Choose a certification body
There are several certification bodies that offer credentials in radiologic technology.uries, you are likely to find common roasts as listed below. It’s a good idea to ask before you buy. There can be a world of difference between roasts.
The two main certifying organizations are the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Each organization has its own eligibility requirements, but both offer credentials that are recognized across the United States.
If you plan to work in diagnostic imaging, you will need to earn a credential from one of these organizations. You can learn more about their respective credentialing processes below.
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
The ARRT offers certification in radiography, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, nuclear medicine technology, and radiation therapy. To be eligible for certification, candidates must complete an accredited educational program and pass an examination.
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
The JRCERT offers accreditation for programs in radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and radiation therapy. Candidates who graduate from an accredited program are eligible to take the ARRT certification examination in their chosen discipline.
Meet the requirements
There are two ways to become a certified X-ray technician: you can either earn an associates degree from an accredited community college or trade school, or you can complete a certificate program offered by a hospital or other healthcare facility. Most employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed an accredited program, but there are some exceptions.
If you decide to pursue an associate’s degree, you can expect to spend two years completing coursework in anatomy, physiology, radiology, and medical ethics, among other subjects. You will also be required to complete a clinical rotation, during which you will gain real-world experience working with patients and X-ray equipment.
Certificate programs typically last one year and include both classroom and clinical components. These programs are often geared towards working adults who already have some experience in the healthcare field, but they may be open to non-experienced students as well.
To be eligible for certification, you must pass an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Once you earn your credential, you will need to complete continuing education credits on a regular basis to maintain your license.
Clinical Experience
Before you can even think about working as an X-ray technician, you need to have some clinical experience. This experience can be in the form of an externship, an internship, or a shadowing opportunity. These opportunities will give you a chance to see what working as an X-ray technician is really like. You’ll also get to see the different types of equipment that are used and how to use them.
Complete an internship
One way to gain clinical experience is to complete an internship. Internships give you the opportunity to work side-by-side with experienced professionals and learn the ropes of the job. Many hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities offer internships for x-ray technicians, so be sure to check with your local providers.
Find a mentor
Clinical experience is the best way to learn about becoming a X-ray technician. A mentor can teach you the ropes, help you find a job, and answer any questions you may have. Clinical experience can be gained in a variety of ways, such as working or volunteering in a hospital, medical office, or clinics. You may also be able to find mentors through friends or family who are already in the medical field.
