Becoming an EKG Technician in Indiana
With the ongoing expansion of the U.S. healthcare system, there is a constant demand for supporting technicians. The list of these prized technicians includes operators of EKG (electrocardiogram) machines. No matter the size of the medical facility, these EKG techs are on hand to provide their experience and expertise.
Considering seeking work as an EKG technician in the state of Indiana? Before you do, take some time to learn what the state requires of people working in this profession. You’ll also save valuable time by learning how to get trained as an Indiana EKG tech. The information contained in this article will help you pick up the basics as quickly as possible.
Who Regulates Indiana EKG Techs?
No matter where you live in America, chances are that you don’t need a license to be employed as an EKG operator. Indiana sticks to this common norm for the nation as a whole. Why are EKG techs allowed to work in healthcare without a license? Because they do not do their jobs independently. Instead, they work under supervision as part of a team. These kinds of workers are called unlicensed assistive personnel.
Who Supervises Indiana EKG Techs?
As is common elsewhere, Indiana calls upon nurses to oversee unlicensed personnel in medical facilities. These personnel include EKG technicians. The rules require EKG techs to follow set procedures when operating electrocardiogram equipment. They also forbid these staff members from making substantial medical decisions.
What Do Indiana Employers Look For?
You don’t necessarily have to get any training before working as an EKG tech in Indiana. In addition, you don’t necessarily need prior experience in any healthcare field. However, if you show up with no skills or previous work experience, you may be seriously decreasing your odds of getting hired.
In Indiana, it’s quite common for EKG specialists to start their careers in other healthcare-related occupations. Two of the most typical occupations for those gaining experience are nurse aide and radiologic technologist. That’s true because people who work in these occupations gain experience that supports later work in electrocardiography. While EKG techs are not licensed, Indiana does maintain statewide standards for both nurse aides and radiologic technologists.
It is also possible to demonstrate competence to prospective employers in other ways. For example, you can complete a training program designed for EKG techs. A comprehensive program may provide you with all of the background you need to make a good impression.
Training Options for EKG Techs in Indiana
Where can you go for EKG technician training in Indiana? Your possible choices include:
- The Indiana School of Phlebotomy (ISP) – ISP offers an electrocardiogram tech course that combines practical skill-building with classroom work. The course lasts for a total of six weeks. When you finish, you can seek certification through the National Healthcareer Association.
- Medical Career Academy – This institution follows the training mandates of both the American Heart Association and the National Healthcareer Association. In total, you will receive 44 hours of instruction. It takes 11 weeks of daytime or nighttime classes to receive your completion certificate.
- Caris College – Caris offers training for acute/clinical technicians. These technicians learn the skills needed for national EKG certification. They also go through training in patient care and blood-drawing (phlebotomy).
What Can You Make in Indiana?
The average yearly income for Indiana EKG techs is just shy of $38,000. Most technicians earn salaries between $33,000-plus and $43,000-plus. A reasonable expectation for new techs is an income somewhere in the $20,000s. With time, your earnings may reach or exceed $50,000 a year.
The Future for EKG Technicians
EKG specialists have an enviable position in the U.S. job market. While some professions are static or even shrinking, cardiogram operators belong to a high-growth employment category. Of course, not everyone will find it easy to get a job. However, the overall trend is certainly cause for optimism.