1. X-Ray Technician Schools in Tennessee
This article posted at the X-Ray Technician Training & Schools blog.
X-Ray Technician is a popular career option because of
the highly rewarding nature of the job, decent salary (is one of the highest paid careers with a
two year degree), and relatively low educational requirements. With as little as a radiology
associates degree and in some cases a radiology certificate, as X-Ray Tech will be at the
forefront of fighting diseases with using of the diagnostic imaging technology.
Several choose to work for a year or two as an X-Ray Tech, then learn some additional imaging
procedures such as magnetic resonance, mammography or CT scanning, with further
specialized training.
X-Ray Technicians don't need to have the same level of knowledge that a physician needs,
however will need to have enough knowledge to effectively isolate and image the anatomical
structures, which are used by physicians to diagnose and treat illnesses. Depending on where is
employed, the job description and the working conditions can vary slightly. In addition to
preparing patients and operating radiology equipment, need to work well in a team setting. Is
responsible for transporting the patients, positioning the patient in the exact position for proper
diagnosis, studying the images and assisting the radiologist in identifying the health problems,
ensuring the proper precautions, keeping the patient's medical records, etc.
X-Ray Tech Training Requirements in Tennessee
In order to gain entry into any of the radiology programs in Tennessee, applicants should
possess high school diploma or GED certificate, to be familiar with English language and
mathematics, as well as with physics, chemistry and biology.
There is a wide range of educational choices through of community colleges, universities and
vocational schools that offer x-ray tech training accredited by the Joint Review Committee on
Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Also, there are courses which offered online
with affordable tuition costs and flexible schedules.
There are three types of x-ray tech training options available in Tennessee:
An one-year radiology certificate program that is offered by hospital; there are currently three of
these programs in the state and all of the education take place in the same hospital. The ARRT
still certifies x-ray techs who hold only a certificate but starting in 2015, an academic degree will
be required.
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2. Nine programs in radiology that offer a two-year associate's degree, from either technical
schools or community colleges. Students are sent to affiliated clinics and hospitals for their
clinical practice.
A four-year bachelor's degree program is the final educational option available to those who
want to find work in supervisory or administrative role, and is offered by colleges or universities
and provides additional training in performing MRI, CT scan, Sonography. There are three
Tennessee radiology technician schools available that offer a bachelor's degree in radiology.
The training includes courses such as: anatomy, pathology, physiology, radiation safety,
medical terminology, patient care procedures, imaging technology, medical ethics, and
radiobiology. During the clinical practice, students will work with real patients under the direct
supervision of an experienced radiologist.
X-Ray Tech Certification Exam
After completion of an accredited training program, candidate will need to pass a certification
exam through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), subjecting proof of
educational completion along with the application and fee ($150).
The ARRT oversees the management of the profession through actions by a volunteer board of
directors. Also, they provide volunteer, networking, and continuing education opportunities for
the membership.
Successfully passing the certification exam is a required step in either securing or retaining job
and covers all aspects of what will need to knows an x-ray technician. Licensure is regulated
through the Tennessee Department of Health and in order to maintain professional license must
complete 24 continuing education units every two years, by attending conferences, completing
online credits, or attending classes to help better their knowledge in the radiology field.
Approved events need to satisfy the Recognized Continuing Education Evaluation Mechanism
(RCEEM) standards
Currently, there are four individual Boards that one can be licensed, depending on the setting
they intend to practice: the Board of Medical Examiners (medical doctor's offices), Board of
Chiropractic Examiners (chiropractic offices), Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners (podiatry
offices), and Board of Osteopathic Examiners (osteopathic medical doctor's offices). Upon
receipt of license from the appropriate Board, candidates will be able to employed in the state of
Tennessee as a X-Ray Technicians.
Job Outlook for X-Ray Technicians in Tennessee
The state of Tennessee as a whole employs over 5900 X-Ray Technicians, with the highest
concentration of workers are in the cities of Jackson TN and Johnson City TN. The average
salary is $61,000 and the employment prospects are very good, as their demand in hospitals,
imaging clinics, diagnostic centers, X ray labs, and doctors offices is very high. Over the next
years, Tennessee is expected to create job opening in the field of radiology at rates much
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3. greater than the national average, and x ray techs will have ample opportunities for the
possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state
including the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Memorial Hospital, Jackson-Madison County
General Hospital and Nashville's Baptist Hospital.
Additional Information for X-Ray Technician
American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Tennessee Society of Radiologic Technologists (TSRT)
Tennessee Department of Health
X-Ray Technician Schools in Tennessee
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