Blog posts of '2023' 'October'

Radiology CME (Continuing Medical Education) courses are crucial for medical professionals specializing in radiology to maintain their certifications and stay informed about the latest advancements and best practices in the field. Our courses offer insights into innovations, critical knowledge, and skills needed to provide the highest level of care to patients.

Gone are the days when professionals needed to travel to distant locations to acquire CME credits. With Gage CE, acquiring knowledge has become more accessible and convenient. Our online platforms provide a plethora of courses covering various aspects of radiology, enabling professionals to choose ones that best suit their needs and interests. These online courses are not just flexible but also highly informative, providing in-depth knowledge about the latest in radiological science, diagnostics, and treatment options.

Whether it’s to fulfill licensing requirements, stay abreast of the newest technologies, or acquire new skills, our radiology CME courses are indispensable for every radiologic professional. The flexibility and accessibility of online radiology CME courses make it easier for professionals to pursue continual learning, ensuring that they are always at the forefront of their field, delivering optimal patient care.

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We created a quick guide on how to become an X-ray tech in California. A career in Radiology is both rewarding and fulfilling. This guide will help you navigate your way into the field of Radiologic Technology in the Golden State.

Educational Foundations: Your journey begins with completing an accredited radiologic technology program, typically an Associate Degree. Choose a program recognized by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to ensure quality education and training.

Clinical Experience: Integrated within the program are clinical components, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and practical skills in radiologic procedures, under the supervision of seasoned professionals.

Certification: After fulfilling your academic and clinical requirements, you’ll need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT®) certification exam, a crucial step to practice as an X-ray tech.

State Licensure: With ARRT® certification, you can then apply for state licensure with the California Department of Public Health, Radiologic Health Branch (RHB), meeting any additional state-specific requisites and fees.

Continuing Education: This is where Gage CE can help! Maintaining licensure and certification in California requires ongoing education to stay updated with the advancements and best practices in radiologic technology. Learn more about the California Radiology CE courses we offer! 

Becoming an X-Ray Tech in California is a structured journey involving quality education, practical experience, certification, and continual learning. It opens up a world of opportunities to make a meaningful difference in healthcare in a state known for its innovation and diverse population.

Becoming an X-ray tech in Arizona is a step into a rewarding career in healthcare. Here’s a quick guide to how to become an x-ray tech in Arizona to kickstart your journey in the field of radiologic technology.

Educational Prerequisites: Start with acquiring a minimum of an Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology. It's essential to select a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to ensure the quality of your education and training.

Hands-on Experience: Accredited programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences, essential for developing crucial skills and insights into patient care and radiologic procedures under professional supervision.

Certification and Licensure: After completing your educational and clinical requirements, passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT®) certification exam is your next step. Success in this exam demonstrates your readiness to practice and enables you to seek state licensure from the Arizona Medical Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners (MRTBE).

Continuous Learning: Maintaining your license and ARRT® certification in Arizona involves a commitment to continual learning and adhering to evolving standards and advancements in radiologic technology through ongoing education. Gage CE is here to help you with all your continuing education needs. Learn more about the Arizona Radiology CEU courses offered. 

Embarking on a career as an X-ray tech in Arizona is a journey filled with learning and growth opportunities, enabling you to make significant contributions to healthcare and patient well-being in this dynamic and supportive environment.

The radiology profession, similar to other healthcare disciplines, is grounded in trust, responsibility, and a steadfast commitment to patient care. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT®) has codified a set of ethical guidelines known as the ARRT® Code of Ethics, designed to uphold the integrity and professionalism of the radiology field.

The Essence of the ARRT® Code of Ethics

The ARRT® Code of Ethics serves as the moral compass for radiologic technologists, outlining the principles and ethical standards that should govern their professional conduct. This code accentuates the commitment to providing high-quality care, maintaining patient confidentiality, and continually pursuing knowledge and proficiency in radiologic technology. It enshrines the values of respect, integrity, and responsibility, acting as a constant reminder of the duties and obligations radiologic technologists owe to their patients, peers, and the profession.

Types of Ethics Violations

Understanding the varied spectrum of ethics violations is crucial for maintaining the sanctity of the profession. Ethics violations can range from minor indiscretions to severe misconduct. Here are several types of violations that radiologic technologists should be vigilant against:

1. Breach of Confidentiality: Unauthorized disclosure of patient information compromises patient trust and violates legal and ethical standards.

2. Misrepresentation or Fraud: Falsifying credentials, qualifications, or work experiences erode professional integrity and can have severe repercussions.

3. Impairment: Practicing while impaired by substances or health conditions can jeopardize patient safety and quality of care.

4. Incompetence or Negligence: Providing substandard care due to lack of knowledge, skills, or diligence is unacceptable and can harm patients.

5. Unprofessional Conduct: Engaging in unethical, disrespectful, or harmful behaviors tarnishes the reputation of the individual and the profession.

Reporting Violations: A Duty to Uphold Standards

When confronted with an ethics violation, it is imperative to report the incident to maintain the credibility and integrity of the radiology profession. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to report a violation:

• Documentation: Compile detailed documentation of the alleged violation, including dates, times, involved parties, and a description of the incident.

• Internal Reporting: Report the violation to the appropriate personnel within your organization, following the established protocols and procedures.

• Contact ARRT®: If the internal resolution is not feasible or effective, submit a written complaint to the ARRT’s® Ethics Department, detailing the violation and providing supporting documentation.

• Cooperate with Investigations: Cooperate fully with any subsequent investigations, providing truthful and accurate information to facilitate the resolution of the complaint.

• Confidentiality: Maintain the confidentiality of the involved parties and the details of the incident throughout the reporting and investigation process.

Upholding Ethical Excellence in Radiology

The ARRT® Code of Ethics is a beacon guiding radiologic technologists toward ethical and professional excellence. Understanding the diverse types of ethics violations and the appropriate reporting mechanisms is paramount in preserving the dignity and trustworthiness of the radiology field.

Every radiologic technologist must imbibe the values and principles enshrined in the ARRT® Code of Ethics, fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and commitment to patient care. By remaining vigilant against ethics violations and taking prompt action when they occur, radiologic technologists can contribute to the elevation of professional standards and the enhancement of patient well-being in the ever-evolving landscape of radiology.

By adhering to the Code of Ethics, radiology professionals not only safeguard their credibility but also reinforce the societal and professional trust vested in the radiology profession. The pursuit of ethical excellence is a continual journey, demanding unwavering dedication, moral resilience, and an enduring passion for serving humanity.

For more information on the ARRT® Code of Ethics click here: https://assets-us-01.kc-usercontent.com/406ac8c6-58e8-00b3-e3c1-0c312965deb2/24b5b213-2814-40f6-b5cb-c651857887aa/2023%20ARRT%20Standards%20of%20Ethics.pdf 

In the fast-paced world of radiology, the quest for knowledge and proficiency is incessant. X-Ray Technologists, or X-Ray Techs, are no exception to this rule. A pivotal component is accumulating Continuing Education (CE) Credits, which are integral to maintaining licensure and staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field.

Determining How Many CE Credits You Need

The first step on this journey is to understand how many CE credits are requisite for maintaining your licensure and certification. Typically, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists® (ARRT®) mandates 24 category "A" CE credits or better every two years for radiologic technologists, including X-ray techs. However, it is crucial to clarify that this number can vary based on your specific credentials and specializations.

Radiologist Assistants require 50 credits every two years. At least 25 of these must be category A+ credits.

To determine your exact requirements, consult the guidelines provided by ARRT® or your state’s licensing board, ensuring that you are adhering to the latest regulations and avoiding any potential discrepancies in credit accumulation. You can also contact us and we can help you identify what your requirements are. 

Variances by State: Navigating the Landscape

The intricacies of CE requirements can be further complicated due to variances in state regulations. Some states may not require membership to ARRT® or have additional requirements or specific subject areas that need to be covered, impacting the number and type of credits required. For instance, certain states may necessitate additional credits in radiation safety or mandate a specific number of credits in your area of specialization.

Given this diversity in requirements, it is imperative to be well-versed with your state’s specific mandates and adjust your CE strategy accordingly. Regularly consulting your state’s radiologic technology board or equivalent regulatory body will ensure that you are aligned with any updates or changes in state requirements, safeguarding your licensure status.

For more details on your specific state, you can check out our homepage and click on the map of the US and then your specific state.

Earning X-Ray CE Credits with Gage CE

Once you have a clear understanding of your CE credit needs, Gage CE offers a plethora of accredited and diverse courses. We pride ourself on providing high-quality, diversified learning resources, ensuring that Rad Techs can find courses that are not only relevant to their specialization but also conducive to their learning preferences. 

• Convenience and Flexibility: Understanding the dynamic and demanding schedules of X-Ray Techs, Gage CE emphasizes flexibility and convenience. 

• Affordability and Accessibility: Gage CE is committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. This commitment to affordability does not compromise the quality of education provided, maintaining a standard of excellence in every course offered.

In a profession where technological advancements and medical innovations are constant, embracing continuous learning is the key to maintaining relevance and achieving excellence. The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey, and Gage CE is here to support you every step of the way, fostering a culture of learning and growth in the radiological community. Contact us for any questions you may have about your CQR results or Radiology CEU needs. 

In the dynamic world of radiologic technology, staying informed and maintaining certification is paramount. At Gage Continuing Education, we often receive queries about the ARRT® Continuing Qualifications Requirements (CQR) process. To aid radiologic technologists in navigating this essential component of their professional journey, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding CQR, ensuring clarity and preparedness.

What is CQR? And What Does CQR Stand For?

CQR, or Continuing Qualification Requirements, is a program initiated by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT®) to ensure radiologic technologists maintain their competence and adapt to the evolving landscape of radiologic science throughout their careers.

When Is The CQR Test Taken?

The CQR process is required every ten years for each registered technologist. It’s crucial to stay attentive to communication from ARRT® regarding your timeline to ensure compliance within the designated window and avoid any repercussions related to non-compliance.

What is the CQR Compliance Period?

The compliance period for CQR spans three years, during which radiologic technologists must complete a structured self-assessment test, identifying areas where further education and development are needed. It is a time to refine skills, acquire new knowledge, and enhance professional competence, ensuring continued excellence in patient care.

How Do You Prepare for the CQR Exam? 

Preparing for the CQR involves a multipronged approach. The initial self-assessment will help identify areas that require focus. Subsequently, leveraging quality resources, engaging in relevant continuing education, and undertaking meticulous review and practice are pivotal in ensuring success.

How Many Questions Are On The CQR Test?

The number of questions on the CQR test can vary, focusing on different areas of radiologic science. A precise and thorough understanding of your specialization, a constant review of fundamental concepts, and practicing a variety of questions can help build confidence and ensure readiness for the diverse array of questions encountered.

Are There CQR Study Guides and Practice Tests?

Many seek guidance on whether there are study guides or practice tests available for the CQR. Quality study material, including guides and practice tests, can indeed be instrumental in preparation. Identifying and utilizing reliable resources that align with your learning style and areas of improvement is crucial in optimizing your preparation strategy.

How Do You Meet The  CQR Requirement?

Fulfilling the CQR requirements involves completing the prescribed continuing education activities. Based on the results of your structured self-assessment test, you will receive a "prescription" indicating how many credits you need to achieve in the various categories, based on your particular modality.

This is where Gage CE comes in! We can help you choose the right courses that address your identified areas of improvement and fulfill the mandated credits. Many times you can simply send us your "prescription" and we can recommend the specific course or set of courses that will meet your needs.

Navigating CQR with Gage CE

The CQR is more than just a requirement; it’s a commitment to continual learning, professional growth, and the highest standards of patient care. Gage CE is your partner in this journey, offering support, guidance, and a plethora of quality continuing education courses to help you meet your CQR requirements efficiently.

We are here to assist you in selecting the right courses, ensuring you fulfill your continuing education requirements, and empowering you to excel in the CQR process. Our commitment is to your success, before and after the exam, and we strive to provide resources and support that enhance your knowledge, skills, and confidence.

In a profession where excellence is non-negotiable, embracing the CQR process is the key to sustaining relevance, competence, and the profound responsibility that radiologic technologists hold in the healthcare ecosystem. With Gage CE by your side, navigating the complexities of CQR becomes a journey of enlightenment, evolution, and unwavering commitment to radiological excellence.