X-ray technician Salary and Career Outlook- What Do You Need To Become an X-Ray Technician?
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Education
To become an X-Ray Technician, you will need to complete a radiologic technology program that has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). This program can be completed at a community college, technical school, or university.
Research schools and programs
The best way to research schools and programs is to speak with current students and recent graduates, as well as professionals in the field. Once you have a list of a few programs that interest you, send an email or call the admissions department at each school to get more information.
When you are considering schools, it is important to look at the curriculum to make sure it covers everything you need to know to be successful in your chosen career. In addition, you should look at the clinical rotations that are offered and make sure they will give you the opportunity to gain the experience you need. Finally, it is important to consider the cost of tuition and living expenses when making your decision.
Understand the admissions process
The admissions process for an X-ray technician involves an assessment of your academic qualifications as well as your personal suitability for the role.
You will need to have completed high school, although you may be able to do some college coursework related to health care or science prior to beginning your training. Many programs also require that you take and pass a basic competency exam.
Certification
All 50 states require X-ray technicians to be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). In order to become certified, you must graduate from an accredited X-ray program and pass the ARRT national certification exam. Once you become certified, you will need to renew your certification every few years.
Become certified through an accredited program
Although not required in all states, certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is the most common credential held by practitioners in the field. The ARRT offers certification in several radiography specialties, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and quality management.
To become certified through the ARRT, candidates must first complete an accredited educational program and then pass a comprehensive exam. Candidates who hold certification from another organization may also be eligible for ARRT certification if they can demonstrate that their training meets ARRT standards. Once certified, technologists must complete continuing education credits to maintain their registration.
Maintain certification through continuing education
Maintain certification through continuing education. You will need to renew your certification every few years, and the process will require you to complete additional training courses and pass another exam. Once you have your certification, you will need to keep up with the latest developments in your field by taking continuing education courses on a regular basis.
Experience
Experience is one of the most important things you need to become an X-Ray Technician. You will need to have on the job training in order to gain the experience required for this position. You can also look into getting a certification, which will show potential employers that you have the skills needed for the job.
Get experience through an internship or externship
X-ray technicians, who are also called radiologic technologists, use x-ray machines and computed tomography, or CT, scanners to take diagnostic images of patients’ bones and organs. X-ray techs may specialize in specific areas such as magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI. They work under the supervision of doctors who specialize in radiology, but are often able to work independently.
While some x-ray techs have bachelor’s degrees in the field, most have two-year associate degrees from accredited programs. X-ray tech programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology and medical imaging. Many programs also include clinical experience in hospitals or other healthcare settings.
After completing an accredited program, x-ray techs must obtain a license in the state where they plan to work. Licensure requirements vary by state but usually include passing an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, or ARRT. Some states also require x-ray techs to complete continuing education credits on a regular basis to maintain their licenses.
Consider pursuing a residency
If you want to become an X-ray technician, you’ll need to complete a training program and obtain certification. Once you’re certified, you may want to consider pursuing a residency. A residency is an advanced training program that allows you to specialize in a particular area of X-ray technology.
Licensure
All states require licensure for X-ray technicians. Specific requirements vary by state, but all states require X-ray technicians to have at least an associate’s degree from an accredited program and pass a state-approved exam. Some states also require continuing education credits to maintain licensure.
Check your state’s requirements
Every state has their own requirements for licensure, so the first step is to check with your state’s radiology board to see what is required. In general, you will need to complete an accredited radiography program and pass a national certification exam. Some states may also require you to pass a state-specific exam. Once you have met all the requirements, you will be able to apply for your license.
Obtain the necessary licensure
All states require licensure for X-ray technicians. Similar to other health care professions, licensure proves to patients, employers and the state that the X-ray technician has met all educational and clinical requirements and is qualified to work in the field. The requirements for licensure vary by state, but most states require graduation from an accredited X-ray technician program and passing scores on both a general radiography exam and a state jurisprudence exam. Some states may also require passage of a state board exam Check with your state’s licensing board for specific licensure requirements in your area.
