RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY (X-RAY) FAQ For Entry 2016

RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY (X-RAY) FAQ

This document is prepared to acquaint prospective students with the program’s application process, the program’s goals and objectives as well as outline the curriculum. It is also designed to answer

questions about the profession of Radiologic Technology. Prospective students are strongly advised to set up an appointment with an LMC advisor before starting pre-requisite testing and coursework.

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, bone densitometry, quality assurance/quality control, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy. Some of these areas involve on-the- job training while others require enrollment in a college program.

Not only are Radiologic Technologists involved in operating radiologic equipment, they also perform certain administrative tasks. Technologists prepare and maintain the patient’s records, keep track of patient images, and analyze images for diagnostic quality. They may also maintain paper or electronic files, schedule appointments, prepare work schedules and, in general, manage radiology departments or facilities. Good health, emotional stability, and a sincere desire to work with the sick and disabled are important qualifications for this profession.

Radiographers can serve in other areas such as:

 Technical advisors and application specialists

 Representatives for radiologic equipment and supply manufacturers

 Federal government and Armed Forces

 Public health, educational institutions, and clinics EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK- U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR:

 Expected to grow 21% through 2022, faster than average for all occupations.

 As the population grows and ages, increases the demand for diagnostic imaging.

 Hospitals will remain principal employer.

 Also, employment in offices of physicians and diagnostic imaging centers will be available.

 Some job openings will arise from the need to replace technologists who leave the occupation.

Please contact the Program Director for local, regional and national locations where graduates have obtained employment. Kerry Mohney- [email protected].

WHO DO I CONTACT FOR AN APPOINTMENT OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION?

Health Science Coordinator Lake Michigan College 2755 E Napier Ave C-327 Benton Harbor MI 49022

269-927-8768 or [email protected]

WHEN DO CLASSES BEGIN?

All new Radiologic Technology classes 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. JRCERT ACCREDITATION

The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Further information about program effectiveness can be obtained at www.JRCERT.org. The JRCERT can also be contacted at 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182, or, at (312) 704-5300.

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

1. Students applying for admission to Radiologic Technology shall first apply for admission online at www.lakemichigancollege.edu.

2. All students are strongly urged to make an appointment with an advisor before registering for ANY prerequisite classes.

3. Students must meet the following requirements for acceptance into the 2016 Fall program. Section One for 2016 (for 2017 check with an advisor or program director)

The following documents are to be submitted to the Records Office:

1. Application for Admission to Lake Michigan College. Apply online at www.lakemichigancollege.edu.

2. High school transcript or GED results. Acceptance Criterion: High school GPA of 2.5 (on 4.0 scale) or GED composite score of 55. Equivalent Substitute: Associate Degree or Twelve (12) credits of college level courses (above 100 level) which include a laboratory course in Biology or Chemistry (grade C or better in each class).

3. College Transcripts. Please note, all transcripts from other institutions must be official and sent directly to the Records Office at LMC. Transcripts containing courses that will fulfill a Health Science requirement should be sent immediately for official evaluation. College courses of a C- or lower will not be transferable according to LMC policy. For courses currently in progress, the transcript containing these courses must be received by the deadline listed in Section Two of this document. Placement on the candidacy list is accomplished through submission of the Application for Health Science Candidacy along with review results indicating all of the requirements have been met.

The following must be taken a LMC assessment center, which are located at the Napier, Bertrand, and South Haven campuses.

1. COMPASS Assessment. This is a basic skills assessment which covers reading, writing (English), and math. This is a College requirement for all first time college students and is offered by the Assessment Center as listed in the LMC Class Schedule. A study guide is available.

2. Nelson-Denny Reading Test: This test must be taken by the end of LMC Fall semester prior to the program application. This is an additional test to the above COMPASS reading assessment which must be taken by all Pre-Radiologic Technology students except those with a previous degree (A.D., B.S., M.A.) from a school with English as the official language. The Nelson-Denny is given in the Assessment Center as listed in the LMC Class Schedule. A study tips document is available through http://www.lakemichigancollege.edu/assessment under the Health Science Proficiency Assessments link. Acceptance Criterion: Grade of 11.8. If he test results in below-level scores, the recommended course must be taken and another Nelson-Denny Test must be successfully completed at the end of the course.

3. Algebra Proficiency Test: If MATH122 LMC or transfer is older than 5 years at the time of program application (May 7, 2016). The student must successfully pass the Algebra

Proficiency test. Conditions apply if the test is not passed.

Required proficiency tests and the Nelson Denny require remediation if passing scores are not met. Contact the LMC Assessment Center at 269-927-6173 if you have further questions. The following assessment is also a requirement for 2016 entry and must be taken at the Career and Transfer Center on the Napier Campus. Please call 269-927-6284 to schedule an

appointment.

Health Career Readiness Assessment (HCRA). HCRA provides an objective assessment for an individual beyond a grade point average. Through this assessment individuals discover if they have the behavioral competencies (soft-skills) that are critical for success in today's healthcare workplace. All questions are non-threatening and the test will only take 15 to 20 minutes. The cost of HCRA (paid by the student) is $19.00. Upon taking HCRA in the Career and Transfer Center (see above) a scheduled meeting with the Program Director will be arranged to review the report the assessment provides.

Section Two for 2016 (for #9 and/or for 2017 requirements check with the program director) Candidacy List Requirements:

1. Successfully complete READ 110 Medical Terminology with a "C" or better. No Prior Experiential Credit will be allowed.

2. Successfully complete BIOL 205 Human Anatomy (10-year limitation) with a "C" or better. 3. Successfully complete PHSC 101 Physical Science: Chemistry & Physics (10-year limitation)

4. Successfully complete PSYC 201 Introduction to Psychology with a "C" or better. 5. Successfully complete ENGL 101 English Composition I with a "C" or better.

6. Successfully complete MATH 122 Intermediate Algebra with a “C” or better. Higher-level MATH requiring MATH 122 as a prerequisite (must be at least four (4) LMC credits) with a grade of “C” or better may be used. If the student record indicates completion of more than one qualifying math course, the highest grade will be used for ranking.

7. Current LMC overall GPA of 2.5 or better.

8. Criminal background check and drug screen test if accepted into the program.

9. Please note that it is LMC policy that transfer courses must have a grade of “C” or better to transfer. This means a “C-“or below would not transfer to LMC.

Pre-Health Science Candidacy Audit – Students must submit this request to the Records Office early in the Fall semester. The Records Office will review the student’s record and notify the student of completed and outstanding requirements. This is only a review of the student’s records. To be considered for placement on the candidacy list, the student must submit an application.

Application for Health Science Candidacy – To be placed on the candidacy list, the student must submit an Application for Health Science Candidacy to the Records Office. This application can be submitted as soon as the student has completed all requirements, or is registered for any outstanding courses or any courses being re-taken to improve a grade. All requirements must be completed and the application submitted no later than the published deadline.

The audit and application forms are available online at www.lakemichigancollege.edu, or, from the Records Office, the Health Science Office, or, at each campus. To retrieve the forms online go to Services for Students, then Student Resources, then “Forms.” In order to be considered for a Fall 2016 seat, the student's paperwork, successful tests, course work, and application must be complete by May 7th, 2016. Completion of the candidacy list requirements, as determined by Application for Health Science Candidacy, achieves candidacy list placement, but does not guarantee a seat in the Program.

A program-specific GPA will be calculated using the following four (4) courses: MATH 122, BIOL 205, PHSC 101, and ENG 101. Admission to the program is based upon the students with the highest program-specific GPA's. Should two individuals qualify for the same seat; the cumulative GPA listed on the transcript will determine the ranking. See the following GPA example.

Course Grade Credits Points

MATH 122 A=(4) x 4 = 16

BIOL 205 B=(3) x 4 = 12

PHSC 101 A=(4) x 4 = 16

ENG 101 A=(A) x 3 = 12

15 56

IF ACCEPTED, ADDITIONAL PROGRAM ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS

Criminal background check, drug screen test, and fingerprinting required if accepted into the program. Students that have a prior criminal background history or drug screening questions should contact the Program Director.

Once the acceptance list has been formed Radiologic Technology students will be informed of a program orientation, which is mandatory to attend if a student has accepted a seat the program. The orientation date is in the summer semester prior to the fall start of the program. The orientation date is announced in the acceptance letter.

Prior to program Fall semester course work newly admitted students must complete a four hour clinical observation arranged in cooperation with the Program Director and a designated clinical site.

WHAT ARE THE PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES REQUIREMENTS?

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

 Reaching over head in order to manipulate the overhead x-ray equipment which is maneuverable within a defined range.

 Standing 4-6 hours daily to perform radiographic examinations on patients.

 Managing from 1-50 lbs. in lifting and carrying different sized cassettes (x-ray image receptors), pushing portable x-ray equipment, and assisting in lifting and turning patients.

 Demonstrating good near and far visual acuity in monitoring patients and equipment while performing radiographic examinations.

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:

 The students will demonstrate entry level knowledge and expertise in clinical radiography.

 Students will grow and develop professionally.

 Students will demonstrate critical thinking skills.

 Students will demonstrate appropriate communication skills.

 Graduates are 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 Center for Outpatient Studies; Lakeland Community Hospital- Watervliet; South Haven Community Hospital; Borgess Lee Memorial Hospital (Dowagiac); Bronson Methodist Hospital, (Kalamazoo); Bronson Lakeview Hospital (Paw Paw); Bronson Lakeview Outpatient Center (Paw Paw); Allegan General Hospital; Elkhart General Hospital; Southwest Michigan Orthopedic Clinic (St. Joseph); South Bend Clinic and Borgess-Pipp Hospital (Plainwell). The hospitals are recognized by nationally known accrediting agencies. Private offices meet the health and safety requirements for the state.

HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM?

Students are enrolled for twenty-one (21) consecutive months of study. The structured curriculum is designed in accordance with the standards from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology and allows for all College scheduled holidays and recesses.

GRADUATION AND NATIONAL REGISTRY INFORMATION:

Upon satisfactory completion of the program, the student will receive an Associate in 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., (R) which means Registered Technologist, Radiography. Some states have additional license

requirements or use the results from the national certification tests (ARRT) for license issuance.

 Any applicant that has been convicted of a felony, and some misdemeanors, should pre-apply to ARRT for determination of eligibility to sit for the national certification examination. If a student has questions about their specific situation they should contact the Program Director and contact the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, 1255 Northland Dr., St. Paul, Minnesota, 55120-1155, phone 651-687-0048.

PHYSICAL EXAM & IMMUNIZATIONS:

A physical exam is required prior to beginning Fall classes. A form will be provided upon acceptance into the program. The physical must include the following:

 Proof of freedom from communicable diseases

 Vaccinations or proof of antibody titer immunity for the following:

 MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella)

 Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria)

 Hepatitis B vaccination

 TB Skin Test with negative results or proof of freedom from TB by chest x-ray

 Varicella (chicken pox)

 Seasonal flu shots (certain months of the year) SERIOUS ILLNESS, SURGERY 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 Director 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:

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. Note- tuition, fees, and costs are listed at the time of this publication and are subject to change without notice. Rates listed are based upon the main Napier Avenue campus.

Tuition: In-District $ 138.00 per contact hour

Out-of-District $ 189.50 per contact hour

International $ 257.00 per contact hour

Late Registration Fee: $ 20.00 flat fee

Radiology Lab Fees $ 640.00 for program

Dosimetry Badge Fees $ 117.00 for program

Books: $ 800.00 for program (estimate)

Uniforms/Shoes: $ 360.00 for program (estimate)

Update CPR and First Aid Training $ 40.00 for program (estimate) For more information about a career in Radiologic Technology:

American Society of Radiologic Technologists 15000 Central Avenue, SE

Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123-3917 800-444-2778

www.asrt.org

AND

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologist 1255 Northland Drive

St. Paul, MN 55102-1155 651-687-0048

www.arrt.org AND

Please remember to visit a nearby hospital radiology department to observe different imaging modalities and types of examinations performed on patients. This observational visit is highly recommended for program entry 2016. Email the Program Director, Kerry Mohney, to obtain information regarding clinical observation- [email protected].

Lake Michigan College-RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY

DISC. / NO. / NAME CREDIT CONTACT

HRS HRS

PREREQUISITES/SUPPORT COURSES:

1. BIOL 205 Human Anatomy 4 5

2. PHSC 101 Physical Science: Chemistry and Physics 4 5

3. PSYC 201 Introduction to Psychology 3 3

4. MATH 122 Intermediate Algebra 4 4

5. ENGL 101 English Composition I 3 3

6. READ 110 Medical Terminology 1 2

Total Prerequisite Hours 19 22

COLLEGE REQUIRED COURSES:

1. ENGL 102 English Composition II 3 3

2. POSC 101 National Government or POSC 102 State Governments, 3 3 or HIST 201 American History or HIST 202 American History

3. PHED 200 Healthful Living 1 2

Total Support Hours 7 8

REQUIRED SUMMER PROGRAM ORIENTATION – The acceptance letter from the Program Director will provide the date for the required summer orientation. The letter will contain information about criminal background checks, drug screening, health requirements, & CPR certification.

FALL:

1. RADT 130 Introduction to Radiography 3 3

2. RADT 131 Radiographic Positioning I 6 8

3. RADT 134 Radiographic Physics 4 4

SPRING:

4. RADT 138 Clinical Experience I* 2 2

5. RADT 139 Common Equipment and Procedures 4 4

6. RADT 140 Radiographic Positioning II 3 4

7. RADT 141 Contrast Studies 3 4

SUMMER I & II:

8. RADT 143 Clinical Experience II (Summer I & II)* 3 3

9. RADT 144 Radiographic Positioning III (Summer I) 3 4

10. RADT 145 Radiographic Protect/Biology (Summer I) 2 2

FALL:

11. RADT 228 Computer Applications in Medical Imaging** 3 3

12. RADT 229 Clinical Experience III* 4 4

SPRING:

13. RADT 232 Clinical Experience IV* 3 3

14. RADT 240 Radiographic Quality 4 4

15. RADT 241 Sectional Anatomy and Modalities** 3 3

Total Core Hours 50 55

*Please note that some late afternoon/early evening and some weekend shifts may be assigned for clinical experience.

This check list for is prospective candidates attempting entry in the Fall 2016 Radiologic Technology Program. All students attempting entry in any of the health science programs should read the program FAQ handout and are strongly urged to see an academic advisor before starting to work on candidacy list requirements.

Completed Not completed

To be Completed

at LMC

 Advising appointment with academic advisor regarding

college and program entry requirements.

 Obtain and read entire RT Program FAQ Handout for

specifics and deadlines.

 Apply to Lake Michigan College (can be done online). High school transcript or GED sent to Records Office. Official College transcript/s sent to records office for audit.

COMPASS testing.



Nelson Denny Reading Test successfully completed or remediation course with successful repeat of Nelson Denny Test.

 Algebra Proficiency Test if MATH 122 older than 5

years. See Section One of this handout.

 Health Care Readiness Assessment and meeting with

Program Director.

Completed

*

*

*

Completed

*

Completed PSYC 201 (“C” or better). Completed READ 110 (“C” or better).

 Submit Pre-Health Science Candidacy Audit early in Fall

semester prior to attempted year of entry.

 Successful completion of all paperwork, testing, and

course work before May 7th, 2016.

 Submitted Application for Health Science Candidacy to

Records Office by May 7th, 2016. Overall GPA = to or greater than 2.5