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RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY
(X-RAY)

Kerry Mohney, Coordinator/Advisor
Radiologic Technology Program
Lake Michigan College
2755 E. Napier Avenue
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
269-927-3571 or
269-927-8100, ext. 5093
E-mail: mohney@lakemichigancollege.edu
Michigan & Northern Indiana Toll Free
1-800-252-1562


This document is prepared to acquaint you with the goals, objectives, and curriculum of the Radiologic Technology program at Lake Michigan College and to answer many questions you may have about radiologic technology and, more specifically, about the program at Lake Michigan College.


WHAT CAN A RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST DO?

The radiologic technologist is a skilled person, qualified by a medical and technical education, to provide patient services at hospitals, physicians' offices, and imaging centers. A radiologic technologist uses x-ray equipment to produce images of tissues, organs, bones, and vessels of the body. A career in general radiography can open pathways involving specialty areas in medical imaging. Such specialty areas are CT, MRI, mammography, ultrasound, angiography, and nuclear medicine.

Not only are radiologic technologists involved in operating radiologic equipment, technologists may have certain administrative tasks. Technolgists prepare and maintain the patient's records - keep track of the images, the date it was taken, and the radiologist's diagnosis. They may also maintain files, schedule appointments, prepare work schedules and, in general, manage radiology departments of facilities.

Good health, emotional stability, an a sincere desire to work with the sick and disabled are important qualifications for this profession.

Radiographers may be employed as technical advisors and representatives for radiologic equipment and supply manufacturers. Radiologic technologists who choose to work for the federal government may find employment opportunities in the Veterans Administration, U.S. Public Health Service, armed forces hospitals, U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, and a number of other agencies. Other opportunities for employment exist in public health and education, clinics, and art museums. Information about a career in radiologic technology can be obtained at www.asrt.org.


HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE PROGRAM AT LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE?

Candidates for admission to Radiologic Technology shall first apply for admission to Lake Michigan College through the Records Office.

Please use the links below to view the admission requirements.

Fall 2006 Requirements
Fall 2007 Requirements

WHAT PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES ARE REQUIRED?

A radiologic technologist, in performing his/her duties, is involved in operating radiologic equipment and positioning patients. Applicants for the Radiologic Technology program at Lake Michigan College will be evaluated on their ability to perform these tasks.

Physical capabilities required in operating radiologic equipment and positioning patients are:

  1. Reaching over head in order to manipulate the overhead x-ray equipment which is maneuverable within a defined range.
  2. Standing 4-6 hours daily to perform radiographic examinations on patients.
  3. Managing from 1-50 lbs. In lifting and carrying different sized cassettes (x-ray film holders), pushing portable x-ray equipment, and assisting in lifting and turning patients.
  4. Demonstrating good near and far visual acuity in monitoring patients and equipment while performing radiographic examinations.

WHEN DO CLASSES BEGIN?

All new Radiologic Technology classes at Lake Michigan College begin in the fall semester of each year. The number of admissions is determined by clinical positions available and is regulated by the accrediting agency. The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Further information about JRCERT can be obtained at www.JRCERT.org.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

The purpose of Lake Michigan College's program is to produce a qualified person to perform skilled radiologic procedures. Program goals include the following:

  1. Students will demonstrate entry level knowledge and expertise in the field of radiography.
  2. The students will exhibit an understanding of professional values and the importance of life long learning.
  3. Students will demonstrate critical thinking and communication skills as responsible members of the health care team.
  4. Graduates will be employable and meet the needs of the health care community.


WHERE WILL I PRACTICE?

In addition to on-campus lab, the clinical facilities used by Lake Michigan College's Radiologic Technology program include Lakeland Hospital - St. Joseph; Lakeland Hospital - Niles; Lakeland Outpatient Laboratory; Lakeland Health Park; Community Hospital Watervliet; South Haven Community Hospital; Lee Memorial Hospital (Dowagiac); Lakeview Hospital (Paw Paw); Bronson Advanced Radiology Services (Kalamazoo); Allegan General Hospital; Elkhart General Hospital; Southwest Michigan Orthopedic Clinic (St. Joseph); and MSU-KCMS (Kalamazoo). The hospitals are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO). Private offices meet the health and safety requirements for the state.


HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM?

Students are enrolled for twenty-three (23) consecutive months of study. The structured curriculum is designed in accordance with the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology and allows for all College scheduled holidays and recesses.


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

GRADUATION AND NATIONAL REGISTRY INFORMATION

Upon satisfactory completion of the program, the student will receive an Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology (AAS/RT). Graduates are then eligible to sit for the certification examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in Radiography. Following the successful completion of this examination, the candidate may designate, following his/her name, R.T., which means Registered Technologist. Some states have additional license requirements and also use the results from the national certification tests (ARRT) for issuance.

Any applicant that has been convicted of a felony will be not eligible to sit for national certification examination. If you have questions about your situation, please contact the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, 1255 Northland Dr., St. Paul, Minnesota, 55120-1155.

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK - U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

  1. Expected to grow faster than the average through 2014.
  2. As the population grows and ages, increasing the demand for diagnostic imaging.
  3. Hospitals will remain principal employer.
  4. Also, employment in offices of physicians and diagnostic imaging centers.
  5. Some job openings also will arise from the need to replace technologists and technicians who leave the occupation.

PHYSICAL EXAM & IMMUNIZATIONS

All radiologic technology students are required to have a physical exam completed prior to beginning classes. This is best done in the summer just before classes begin.

As part of this physical exam, it is essential to provide proof of freedom from communicable diseases. If this information is not on the physical form, it will be required separately. Specific vaccinations must be done or proof of antibody titer immunity provided for the following:

MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella)
Td (Tetanus, Diptheria)
Hepatitis B vaccination
Tuberculin Skin Test with negative results or proof of freedom from TB by chest x-ray

SERIOUS ILLNESS OR INJURY:

Any student who has a serious illness, surgery, or injury while in the program will be required to obtain a doctor's written release on an LMC form verifying that he/she is able to meet class and/or clinical practice requirements without limitations, without aggravating an existing condition, and without jeopardizing the safety and well being of patients. This written release will be discussed with the program coordinator and retained in the student's file. Since the usual length of recovery for surgery is 6 to 8 weeks, it is unlikely the student will be able to continue in the program after surgery unless the surgery is minor and the release form is appropriately signed.

PREGNANCY

Upon voluntary declaration of the pregnancy to program faculty it is strongly recommended that the student declare the pregnancy in writing to the Program Coordinator. This declaration will assist the facilitation of dose monitoring requirements. If a pregnant student elects to take a leave of absence, the program faculty will work with the student for a planned re-entry into the program at a time mutually agreeable to both the student and program faculty. The student will be made of aware that the program operates on a limited enrollment format and that readmission will be determined on available space and previous semester(s) completed.

COST ESTIMATES:

Tuition: District Resident $72.50 per credit hour
Michigan Out of District $102.00 per credit hour
Other U.S. Residents/Foreign Students $136.00 per credit hour
Contact Hours Above Credit Hours Fee: $72.50 per credit hour
General Service Fees: $13 per credit hour
Technology Fee: $8 per credit hour
Facility Use Fee: $10
Late Registration Fee: $5
Radiology Books: $700 for 2 years (estimate)
Uniforms/Shoes: $300 per year (estimate)
Name Tag/Patches: $20 for 2 years
Lead Markers: $15 for 2 years

NOTE: TUITION AND FEES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Should you seek additional information, you may contact:

Kerry Mohney, Coordinator
Radiologic Technology Program
Lake Michigan College
2755 E. Napier Avenue
Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022
mohney@lakemichigancollege.edu

Lake Michigan College is an Equal Opportunity Institution, affording enrollment, employment, and service without distinction on the basis of age, color, height, weight, creed, disability, marital status, sexual preference, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, or sex.

 

This page was last modified : August 17, 2007


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