Thursday, May 6, 2010

About Radiology Schools

About Radiology Schools


The medical field is exploding with opportunities for anyone who is aspiring to become a radiology technician. Accredited radiology schools offer a generalized focus on the radiology field, as well as specialty areas. Body imaging, nuclear medicine, pediatric radiology and women's imaging are just some of the areas in which a radiology student can choose to specialize. A list of accredited radiology and X-ray technician schools in your area is just a click away.


Identification


Radiology technician schools train their students to perform diagnostic testing on patients in order to help doctors make a better medical diagnosis. Radiology technicians prepare the patient by informing him about the particulars of each test, making for a less stressful experience. Among the tests that a radiology technician can perform are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans. The degree-holding radiologist may also inject a non radioactive dye into the patient's bloodstream in order to enhance testing images.


Types


Radiology schools offer both certificate and degree programs, which are usually two or four years in duration. Students learn from hands-on clinical training combined with classroom studies. Associate and bachelor degrees are offered by colleges and institutions that offer radiology programs, for those newly entering the medical field. Certificate programs are often preferred for those who are already certified but seeking specialty training.


Features


As a radiology student you will explore the core classes like math and reading, which will later be supplemented with more relevant courses like biology and physics. Radiology positioning and radiology anatomy will also be required. Students are also taught the proper precautions that can be taken to guard against radiation poisoning, which can be a hazard of the position. The use of lead aprons and other body shields are encouraged.


Considerations


When choosing a radiology school it is important to only choose from a list of accredited institutions. Radiology programs must be certified by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiological Technology (JRCERT), in order to be recognized. All programs recommended by JRCERT meet high standards of quality.


Warnings


There are broad differences in certification and degree programs offered by competing radiology schools. A registered radiology technician can provide a wider range of services than an X-ray technician (limited scope technician), so it is very important that you understand exactly what you are signing up for when registering for classes.

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