How to Become an EKG Technician in Kentucky

EKG technicians help doctors get the timely information needed to diagnose heart problems. They do so by operating EKG or electrocardiogram machines in hospitals and other facilities. It’s safe to say that these trained technicians play a valued role in modern healthcare systems.

Kentucky healthcare is just as dependent on EKG technology as the rest of the nation. The state’s techs can usually find work as long as they uphold professional standards. In addition, many Kentucky EKG technicians receive excellent salaries. To learn more about the state’s requirements and opportunities, just check out the handy information in this article.

Regulations and Training for Kentucky EKG Technicians

It is quite common for EKG techs in America to work without getting licensed by their home state. Kentucky sticks with this well-established pattern. But like other states, Kentucky has not done away with all regulations for electrocardiogram operators. Instead, the state delegates authority for these unlicensed professionals to nurses and doctors who hold current licensing.

Despite the lack of licensing, EKG technicians are under considerable pressure to strive for excellence. To begin with, it takes a lot of knowhow to operate an EKG machine, especially in a real-world situation. Some Kentucky healthcare providers will train you if you otherwise meet their employment standards. Still, it never hurts to get at least some training in advance. In fact, some facilities may expect you to go through training before even filling out an application.

In addition, you may have a hard time getting a job without prior experience in a medical setting. This experience doesn’t have to be in EKG-related matters. Still, it helps if you have already worked somewhere in the healthcare system.

In-State Options for EKG Tech Training

Kentucky provides plentiful options for getting your EKG technician training. A list of your potential choices includes:

• KY Healthcare Training – This institution offers a Certified EKG Technician program. The program includes 65 hours of instruction and covers all essential areas. KY also lets you count your EKG tech training toward a certificate as clinical medical assistant.
• The Kentucky School of Phlebotomy – It takes six weeks to complete this Lexington-based EKG tech program. You time will be split between classroom work and practical development of your skills. The program is sanctioned by the Kentucky Commission on Proprietary Education.
• Emergency Medical Training Professionals – This organization gives you multiple options for getting your EKG technician training. It takes two weeks to complete the full-time day program. You need seven weeks to complete evening classes. In addition, you can choose a mix of in-person and online instruction.
• ATA College – This is a Louisville-based institution. It offers certification for patient care technicians. These technicians combine EKG skills with patient care, phlebotomy and nurse’s aide skills.

Possible Earnings for Kentucky EKG Techs

Most EKG techs in Kentucky earn between roughly $32,000 and $42,000 a year. The statewide average is about $36,400. When you’re just getting started, you should expect to earn a salary below $30,000. Experienced techs in Kentucky sometimes make incomes well above the mid-$40,000s.

The State of The Job Market for EKG Technicians

When choosing their professions, most people give at least some consideration to the future job market. That holds true for those interested in becoming EKG techs. Fortunately, like other members of their employment sector, EKG specialists look well-placed to find work. Through 2029, you can anticipate a high rate of overall growth. For every 10 positions in existence today, there will be at least one more in nine years’ time. At first glance, this may not seem like much. However, such a rate of expansion far outstrips the norm for American workers.