Q; Board preparation courses – are you going to provide the questions expected on the exam ?
A: No. That would be unethical. We will, however, stress the weight of each topic on the exam, for example on EEG prep course, we are going to stress the importance of filters and provide enough exercises to explain the concepts tested on the examination We will provide a complete review of the material necessary to successfully pass the national board examination.
Q: How well am I going to be prepared for work after graduation from the program ?
A: As in any career field nothing will prepare one for the work environment as does actual clinical experience. At Alpha students learn theory and will attain the knowledge required to perform the procedures prior to their clinical externship experience. Each student will begin their studies with an in-depth overview of neurophysiology and thorough explanation of the central and peripheral nervous system. In your chosen modality course (IOM , EEG, NCS, EP, PSP) you will then learn the method and technology used to provide testing and monitoring methods training with the best equipment available. Finally during the final phase of the program you are going to learn in clinical set up with individual professional, gradually increasing your involvement with the patient and testing responsibility.
Upon graduation you’ll confident with the concepts, terminology, the equipment and the procedures well enough to start your new job. You can always stay in touch with your instructors who will be happy to address your questions and help with your concerns.
Q: What is the outlook for the neurodiagnostic profession ?
A: It is very solid regardless of economy. This is the field that has been maturing for many years and technologies physicians, surgeons and other medical professionals did dream about for so long are finally here in a mature form. The tests neurotechnologists provide are meaningful, reliable and informative in providing the patient with the best holistic diagnosis. As many professions experience less demand neurodiagnostics offers employment in many types of medical setups, virtually everywhere in the country. Many classified posts continue unfulfilled for months despite highly competitive compensation packages. As a neurothechnologist, no matter where you are in life, you’ll always have a profession you can depend on as a source of income.
Q: Which of the neurodiagnostic specialties is the best ?
A: The best, as a source of income, work environment ? That depends on your interests, financially- intra operative monitoring offers salaries that can reach or even exceed six figure income for experienced, certified technologist. But it requires presence in the operating room and not every one is going to feel comfortable in this environment. Nerve conduction study takes place in physician exam room, this specialty is great for individuals who either like to be employed by someone else or for a person who likes to offer the services independently.
Q: How can I find out which neurodiagnostic specialty is best for me ?
A: During your initial course sufficient time is devoted to explore different specialties, testing method and work environment. By the end of the first course you should have a good concept of the field and be able to specify your preferences. On our web site visit the link – professional organizations, click on each link and learn more. You can also talk to your instructors. Everyone is actively involved in at least one specialty, usually more than one. Ask them about their work, they will gladly explain the virtues of their career.
Q: Can I learn more than specialty ?
A: Yes, and most students choose to learn at least two specialties and often more than two. If you learn EEG you can devote just a little more time and learn evoked potentials and nerve conduction study. Your resume will look better, your skill combination will appeal to your employer. Also, it will have a positive impact on your compensation.
Q: Do you provide discounts for students choose more specialties.
A: Yes. Each subsequent program costs less. It also takes less time to learn since you already possess the same neurophysiological concepts. The equipment and the software are the same. Its just a small stretch. Talk to your adviser about possible options.
Q: I am an engineer who want to change a profession, is this a good field for me ?
A: Intra operative monitoring seem to be one of the best choices for engineers. The work takes place in hi-tech environment, involves the newest aspects of information technology and data processing. If you feel comfortable around computers, sophisticated software, electrodes and amplifiers this is your job. Connection of computer technology with brain is in it’s infancy but quickly will gain prominence as internet did decade and a half ago.