4 answers
Ja’Kailyn
Student
Rowlett, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
2737 views
How would I go about finding the right clinic ?
How would I go about finding the right clinic to get hands-on training in radiation? What steps should I take to research and evaluate potential clinics? Are there specific things I should look for or ask about when contacting these clinics? Any tips on networking or resources that could help in my search?
Login to comment
4 answers
Bright Komor
Nurse
260
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
To find the right clinic for hands-on training in radiation, here’s a short summary of steps to take:
1. **Research**: Start by searching for clinics or hospitals that specialize in **radiation therapy** or **medical imaging**. Look for those affiliated with universities or medical centers, as they often offer training opportunities.
2. **Evaluate**: Check if the clinic is **accredited** by professional bodies (e.g., American College of Radiology) and if they have a history of training professionals in radiation techniques.
3. **Ask Key Questions**:
- Do they offer **structured training** programs or internships in radiation?
- What **equipment** and technology do they use?
- Are there opportunities for **mentorship** or working with experienced professionals?
4. **Network**: Attend **conferences**, seminars, or events related to radiation therapy. Connect with professionals through **LinkedIn**, university alumni networks, or local associations.
5. **Resources**: Use online directories or training organizations (like AART or ASRT) to find accredited clinics.
These steps will help ensure you choose a clinic that fits your career goals and offers quality training.
1. **Research**: Start by searching for clinics or hospitals that specialize in **radiation therapy** or **medical imaging**. Look for those affiliated with universities or medical centers, as they often offer training opportunities.
2. **Evaluate**: Check if the clinic is **accredited** by professional bodies (e.g., American College of Radiology) and if they have a history of training professionals in radiation techniques.
3. **Ask Key Questions**:
- Do they offer **structured training** programs or internships in radiation?
- What **equipment** and technology do they use?
- Are there opportunities for **mentorship** or working with experienced professionals?
4. **Network**: Attend **conferences**, seminars, or events related to radiation therapy. Connect with professionals through **LinkedIn**, university alumni networks, or local associations.
5. **Resources**: Use online directories or training organizations (like AART or ASRT) to find accredited clinics.
These steps will help ensure you choose a clinic that fits your career goals and offers quality training.
Jeremy Enfinger, BS, ARRT(R), CRT(F)
Clinical Manager
4
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Jeremy’s Answer
Ja'Kailyn, are you able to clarify your question? There are many types of medical imaging modalities that utilize radiation to image different structures in the human body such as X-ray, CT, and Nuclear Medicine. We also use radiation in Therapy to treat cancer. Depending on what you are specifically wanting to do, there may be educational programs that will first train you in safety using radiation, and as a part of their respective programs, will find a clinical site for you to get hands-on experience and guidance for how to use the equipment appropriately while providing quality patient care.
Research: Determine what type of imaging and/or therapy interests you, then look at ARRT.org to learn more about that area specialty and requirements for Registration in the United States
Check State Requirements: Not all states have additional regulatory requirements and/or a state license, but many do. Check with your state (or wait until you're enrolled in an accredited program that will teach you about this)
Research Schools: go to JRCERT.org and look up accredited schools in your state. In general x-ray for example, there are limited license programs that charge a lot of money and don't allow you to practice full-scope, so make sure it's a JRCERT-accredited program before you apply
Apply to school/s: There can sometimes be waiting lists or lottery systems in place to select who gets into these programs. Ensure you have the prerequisite courses and meet all of the qualifying criteria to apply, then submit your application
Pass your Registry Exam: Upon completion of an accredited program, you'll need to become credentialed in your modality of choice in order to work, then you can apply for high-paying jobs in that modality. Feel free to reach out to me with other questions!
Jeremy recommends the following next steps:
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1205
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello!
Great question, Ja’Kailyn! When it comes to finding the right clinic for hands-on training in radiation, there's a path you can take that will ensure you make an informed choice.
- Research and Evaluate: Start by identifying clinics that offer radiation training. Look up reviews, testimonials, and rankings to gauge their reputation. Consider asking fellow professionals or mentors for recommendations.
- Accreditation and Certifications: Check if the clinic is accredited by relevant medical bodies and if they have certifications that ensure quality training.
- Facilities and Equipment: Look into the quality and availability of training equipment. Hands-on training is most effective when you have access to state-of-the-art technology.
- Staff Expertise: Evaluate the qualifications and experience of the instructors. Are they leaders in the field? Do they have relevant experience?
- Training Curriculum: Review the training curriculum. Does it cover a comprehensive range of topics? Does it align with your career goals and interests?
- Networking Opportunities: Reach out to current or past trainees to get their insights. This will give you a sense of what to expect and how valuable the training was for them.
- Ask Questions: When contacting clinics, inquire about the structure of the training, the ratio of trainees to equipment, opportunities for real-world practice, and support for trainees.
- Financial Considerations: Understand the costs involved and if there are any financial aid or scholarship options available.
As for networking, consider joining professional associations related to radiation therapy and attending industry conferences. These platforms can connect you with experienced professionals and provide you with leads on reputable training clinics.
Don't hesitate to use resources like LinkedIn to reach out to industry experts and express your interest in their training programs. Being proactive and showing genuine enthusiasm can open many doors.
Good luck on your journey, Ja’Kailyn! You're on the right track, and with a bit of research and effort, you'll find the perfect clinic for your training. Keep pushing forward!
Great question, Ja’Kailyn! When it comes to finding the right clinic for hands-on training in radiation, there's a path you can take that will ensure you make an informed choice.
- Research and Evaluate: Start by identifying clinics that offer radiation training. Look up reviews, testimonials, and rankings to gauge their reputation. Consider asking fellow professionals or mentors for recommendations.
- Accreditation and Certifications: Check if the clinic is accredited by relevant medical bodies and if they have certifications that ensure quality training.
- Facilities and Equipment: Look into the quality and availability of training equipment. Hands-on training is most effective when you have access to state-of-the-art technology.
- Staff Expertise: Evaluate the qualifications and experience of the instructors. Are they leaders in the field? Do they have relevant experience?
- Training Curriculum: Review the training curriculum. Does it cover a comprehensive range of topics? Does it align with your career goals and interests?
- Networking Opportunities: Reach out to current or past trainees to get their insights. This will give you a sense of what to expect and how valuable the training was for them.
- Ask Questions: When contacting clinics, inquire about the structure of the training, the ratio of trainees to equipment, opportunities for real-world practice, and support for trainees.
- Financial Considerations: Understand the costs involved and if there are any financial aid or scholarship options available.
As for networking, consider joining professional associations related to radiation therapy and attending industry conferences. These platforms can connect you with experienced professionals and provide you with leads on reputable training clinics.
Don't hesitate to use resources like LinkedIn to reach out to industry experts and express your interest in their training programs. Being proactive and showing genuine enthusiasm can open many doors.
Good luck on your journey, Ja’Kailyn! You're on the right track, and with a bit of research and effort, you'll find the perfect clinic for your training. Keep pushing forward!
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Ja’Kailyn, you’re asking the right questions! Finding the right clinic for hands-on training in radiation isn’t just about picking the one closest to your house—it’s about finding a place that’ll actually teach you, not just have you standing in the corner watching people push buttons. So:
Step 1: Know What You’re Looking For
Not all clinics are created equal. Some are well-equipped, filled with experienced professionals ready to mentor you. Others… well, let’s just say their idea of “training” is handing you a mop and telling you to “observe” from a distance.
What you want is a clinic with the things I know should be there and that's some cool Certified professionals who actually want to teach. 👀🤓
Modern equipment (because training on outdated machines won’t help your future)
A solid training program—not just “watch and learn” but actual hands-on experience
Good safety protocols (because, you know, radiation)
Step 2: Research Like a Pro
This is where you put your internet skills to good use. Start with.
Hospital and clinic websites (many list internship or shadowing opportunities)
College or university partnerships (schools often have connections to training sites)
Professional organizations like the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
Google Maps reviews (because nothing says red flag like a one-star review saying, “They lost my X-ray results… twice”)
Step 3: The “Ask Smart Questions” Phase
When you reach out to clinics, don’t just say, “Hey, do you train people?” Be specific:
“Do you offer structured training for students, or is it more observational?”
“What kind of hands-on experience will I get?”
“Are there mentorship opportunities with experienced radiologic technologists?”
“How often do students who train here go on to get jobs in the field?”
If they start answering in vague circles, that’s a clue to run.
Step 4: Network Like a Boss
This isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know. Some ways to make connections:
Talk to professors or advisors—they often have direct clinic contacts
Join professional groups like ASRT or local radiology organizations
Attend career fairs or workshops—even virtual ones
Reach out to current students or recent grads—they’ll give you the real scoop on where to train and where to avoid
Bonus Tips to Give You the Edge because you need it and I know you do!
If a clinic isn’t advertising training opportunities, ask anyway. Sometimes they take students but don’t publicly post it.
Be professional when reaching out—no “Yo, u got internships?” emails. Yes not really the doctor won't come and be like "Yo man sure let's rock!" yep unless it's me 😂😅!
Okay so make sure to, Follow up! If you don’t hear back in a week, send a polite reminder even visit, sometimes it works!
Once you get in, ask lots of questions and show enthusiasm. The more engaged you are, the more they’ll be willing to teach.
So, Ja’Kailyn, time to put on your detective hat and find that perfect clinic! With the right research and networking, you’ll be getting hands-on training in no time. And who knows? That clinic might just turn into your first real job.
All the best and good luck!
Step 1: Know What You’re Looking For
Not all clinics are created equal. Some are well-equipped, filled with experienced professionals ready to mentor you. Others… well, let’s just say their idea of “training” is handing you a mop and telling you to “observe” from a distance.
What you want is a clinic with the things I know should be there and that's some cool Certified professionals who actually want to teach. 👀🤓
Modern equipment (because training on outdated machines won’t help your future)
A solid training program—not just “watch and learn” but actual hands-on experience
Good safety protocols (because, you know, radiation)
Step 2: Research Like a Pro
This is where you put your internet skills to good use. Start with.
Hospital and clinic websites (many list internship or shadowing opportunities)
College or university partnerships (schools often have connections to training sites)
Professional organizations like the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
Google Maps reviews (because nothing says red flag like a one-star review saying, “They lost my X-ray results… twice”)
Step 3: The “Ask Smart Questions” Phase
When you reach out to clinics, don’t just say, “Hey, do you train people?” Be specific:
“Do you offer structured training for students, or is it more observational?”
“What kind of hands-on experience will I get?”
“Are there mentorship opportunities with experienced radiologic technologists?”
“How often do students who train here go on to get jobs in the field?”
If they start answering in vague circles, that’s a clue to run.
Step 4: Network Like a Boss
This isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know. Some ways to make connections:
Talk to professors or advisors—they often have direct clinic contacts
Join professional groups like ASRT or local radiology organizations
Attend career fairs or workshops—even virtual ones
Reach out to current students or recent grads—they’ll give you the real scoop on where to train and where to avoid
Bonus Tips to Give You the Edge because you need it and I know you do!
If a clinic isn’t advertising training opportunities, ask anyway. Sometimes they take students but don’t publicly post it.
Be professional when reaching out—no “Yo, u got internships?” emails. Yes not really the doctor won't come and be like "Yo man sure let's rock!" yep unless it's me 😂😅!
Okay so make sure to, Follow up! If you don’t hear back in a week, send a polite reminder even visit, sometimes it works!
Once you get in, ask lots of questions and show enthusiasm. The more engaged you are, the more they’ll be willing to teach.
So, Ja’Kailyn, time to put on your detective hat and find that perfect clinic! With the right research and networking, you’ll be getting hands-on training in no time. And who knows? That clinic might just turn into your first real job.
All the best and good luck!