Becoming an X-ray tech, also known as a radiologic technologist, can be a rewarding and challenging career path in the healthcare industry. San Antonio, with its growing population and increasing demand for medical services, is an ideal location to pursue this career. Here are five tips to help you become an X-ray tech in San Antonio.
Why Become an X-ray Tech?
Before we dive into the tips, let's briefly discuss why becoming an X-ray tech can be a great career choice. X-ray techs play a vital role in the medical field, using specialized equipment to produce images of the body's internal structures. These images help doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. As an X-ray tech, you'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers.
Tip #1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become an X-ray tech in San Antonio, you'll need to meet the basic requirements set by the state of Texas and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). These requirements include:
- Earning a high school diploma or equivalent
- Completing a radiologic technology program approved by the ARRT
- Passing the ARRT certification exam in radiography
Education and Training
In San Antonio, there are several radiologic technology programs that can help you meet the basic requirements. These programs are offered at community colleges, universities, and vocational schools. Some popular options include:
- San Antonio College
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
- Concorde Career College
When choosing a program, make sure it's accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) and approved by the ARRT.
Tip #2: Gain Practical Experience
Practical experience is essential for becoming a successful X-ray tech. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting. Many radiologic technology programs offer internships or clinical rotations that can help you gain the experience you need.
Clinical Experience
Some popular clinical experience options in San Antonio include:
- University Health System
- Methodist Healthcare System
- San Antonio Military Medical Center
Tip #3: Get Certified
Certification is an important step in becoming an X-ray tech. The ARRT offers certification in radiography, which is the most common certification for X-ray techs. To get certified, you'll need to pass the ARRT certification exam in radiography.
Certification Exam
To prepare for the certification exam, you can use study materials and online resources, such as:
- ARRT exam review course
- Radiography textbook
- Online practice exams
Tip #4: Stay Current with Continuing Education
As an X-ray tech, you'll need to stay current with the latest technology and techniques in the field. The ARRT requires certified X-ray techs to complete continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain certification.
Continuing Education
Some popular CE options in San Antonio include:
- ARRT CE courses
- ASRT CE courses
- San Antonio College CE courses
Tip #5: Join a Professional Organization
Joining a professional organization can help you stay connected with other X-ray techs and stay current with industry developments. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) is a popular professional organization for X-ray techs.
Professional Organization
Some benefits of joining the ASRT include:
- Access to CE courses
- Networking opportunities
- Industry news and updates
Gallery of X-ray Tech Schools in San Antonio
FAQ Section
What is the average salary for an X-ray tech in San Antonio?
+The average salary for an X-ray tech in San Antonio is around $60,000 per year.
What are the requirements for becoming an X-ray tech in Texas?
+To become an X-ray tech in Texas, you'll need to earn a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a radiologic technology program approved by the ARRT, and pass the ARRT certification exam in radiography.
How long does it take to become an X-ray tech?
+Typically, it takes two years to complete a radiologic technology program and become an X-ray tech.