PTC offers new limited scope X-ray operator certificate program

PTC is offering its newest program, the Limited Scope X-Ray Operator Certificate, to start this fall semester, Aug. 26. The 16-credit program is designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary for performing radiographic exams at physicians’ offices, chiropractic offices, urgent care facilities, clinics, and in hospitals.

“Limited scope X-ray technicians may work independently or act as support to certified radiologic technicians, who can focus on more complex procedures,” says Krista Hoekstra, PTC’s Director of Nursing and Health Science programs. “LXMO [Limited Scope X-ray Machine Operator] certification allows trained individuals to perform radiologic exams based on the Limited Scope ARRT [American Registry of Radiologic Technologists] certification exam. Minnesota uses this exam to ensure safety and provide licensing to trained individuals,” Hoekstra explains.

Upon completion of the program, individuals are eligible to take the Limited Scope ARRT exam to earn their LXMO certification. LXMO certification means an individual has acquired the necessary training, has taken and passed the limited scope ARRT exam, and has received approval from the state. Courses in limited scope X-ray machine operation include English, biology, and radiology technology and diagnostic imaging. All core, technical courses are delivered in an online format and will be offered beginning this fall semester. Required coursework outside the program is typically offered each semester; students technically may start the program June 3, during the summer term, with courses in English and biology.

“Limited scope X-ray machine operators prepare patients for exams, explain procedures, give clear instructions during the exam, and practice standards that ensure the highest level of radiation protection and safe operation of the X-ray machine,” Hoekstra says. “Also, they must have excellent communication skills to explain radiographic procedures, and they must be mentally prepared to work with critically ill patients, as well as trustworthy for maintaining patient privacy, and detail-oriented for record-keeping,” Hoekstra adds.

The new program is made possible, in part, through the Healthcare Professions Pathways grant that was awarded to PTC and nine other institutions in Sept. 2011. The grant, known as the “H2P grant,” targets healthcare professions since the healthcare industry is experiencing a critical shortage of trained workers. PTC already offers programs in long-term care, nursing, medical assisting, general health science, and certificates in phlebotomy and electrocardiography (ECG/EKG).

Student Senate officers attend annual student association summit at Capitol

PTC Student Senate officers April Sheldon (Treasurer), Tim Soderbeck (Parliamentarian), and Kaylynn Anderson (Voting Senator - Math Club), with Student Senate Staff Advisor Amanda Spencer, are representing PTC in the nation’s Capitol, Mar. 16 through Mar. 19 at the Minnesota State College Student Association’s third annual summit. The trip provides students with the opportunity to engage in higher education advocacy at the federal level through meetings with lawmakers and policy experts.

“So far, the trip is well worth it,” says Amanda Spencer via text message, in between meetings. “We are learning a lot, and the sightseeing is educational, too!” Spencer adds.

In addition to advocacy meetings, MSCSA is providing students with the training they will need to engage in effective and successful meetings with their elected officials; also, the trip’s agenda has built in limited time for sightseeing and exploring D.C.



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(L to R) April Sheldon, Tim Soderbeck, Amanda Spencer, and Kaylynn Anderson pause for a photo near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.

Study shows PTC makes major contribution to regional economy

Pine Technical College released the results of a research study that estimates the annual economic impact of PTC on the regional economy to be $29 million. The study, “The economic impact of Pine Technical College,” was conducted by Wilder Research, a nationally recognized source of data used by state and local planners, policymakers and service providers.

Jose Diaz, research scientist for Wilder, said in a news release, “This economic impact research provides a statistically valid measurement of the significance of an organization’s activities on the regional economy. Policy makers and community leaders can use the data to inform their decisions. Pine Technical College clearly has a significant impact on the regional economy.”

The study further estimated, based on the East Central region's economy of $4 billion, for every $100 produced in the region, $1 is directly or indirectly related to PTC. The direct impact of the college in 2011 was $21 million, while the indirect impact in other industries was $8 million.

“Pine Technical College makes a long-term contribution to the regional economy with every graduating class because the productivity improvements from higher education last for the worker’s entire career,” explains Diaz.

Pine Technical College to host financial aid workshop, Mar. 27

Mark your calendars! To assist students in preparing and applying for financial aid, Pine Technical College will host a Minnesota College Goal workshop event, Mar. 27, 3:30 p.m. PTC financial aid staff members will provide professional assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as well as helpful information about additional methods for paying for college such as loans, scholarships, and more.

“For a lot of new students, the financial aid process can be a little overwhelming at first,” says Shawn Reynolds, PTC’s Director of Financial Aid. “By offering workshops like this, we can help students and their families navigate the process and also explain the ins-and-outs of aid, loans, grants, and scholarships, and that goes a long way in easing an applicant’s worries about paying for college,” Reynolds adds.

Minnesota College Goal is a statewide volunteer program that provides free assistance to students and families applying for financial aid for postsecondary education. New and returning students and their families are welcome to attend PTC’s free workshop. To complete the FAFSA at the workshop, attendees should come prepared and bring the following with them: social security number; alien registration number (if not a U. S. citizen); driver’s license number; last year’s tax information or tax returns (for both the applicant and his or her parents); information on savings, investments, and business and farm assets (for both the applicant and his or her parents); and, records of untaxed income.