EKG Technician Programs in Amarillo, Texas

Becoming an EKG Technician in Amarillo, Texas

Are you considering a career as an EKG Technician in Amarillo, Texas? This guide will walk you through the steps to join this rewarding healthcare profession. EKG Technicians, also known as Electrocardiograph Technicians or Cardiovascular Technicians, play a key role in monitoring heart health by performing electrocardiograms, which are diagnostic tests to evaluate and record the electrical activity of the heart.

Whether you’re looking for local EKG Technician training programs, certification requirements, or employment opportunities, this article has everything you need to know to start your journey.

About Amarillo

Located in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is a city rich in culture and history. Known for attractions such as Palo Duro Canyon State Park and the iconic Route 66 Historic District, Amarillo offers a mixture of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Its healthcare sector has grown significantly, driven by several large medical facilities in the area. To learn more about what life in Amarillo has to offer, visit the official City of Amarillo website.

EKG Technician Training Programs in Amarillo, Texas

For those seeking EKG Technician training in Amarillo, local and nearby institutions offer programs designed to prepare you for this healthcare role. Here are three options for training:

1. Amarillo College

   • Location: Washington Street Campus, Amarillo, TX
   • Program: Amarillo College offers a Continuing Healthcare Education program, which includes EKG Technician training. This program covers anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and hands-on practice with electrocardiograms.
   • Program Link: Amarillo College Healthcare Programs

2. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC)

   • Location: Amarillo Campus, Coulter Street, Amarillo, TX
   • Program: While primarily focused on advanced healthcare education, TTUHSC Amarillo provides resources and connections to certifications and training programs in allied health fields like EKG Technician training.
   • Program Link: TTUHSC Amarillo Programs

3. Allied Health Careers Institute

   • Location: Amarillo, TX
   • Program: This local healthcare training institute occasionally offers short-term certifications, including EKG Technician courses that adhere to Texas state training standards.
   • Program Link: Allied Health Careers Institute

If local programs are unavailable, consider other Texas options like Tyler Junior College or Western Technical College, which are within driving distance or offer online components.

EKG Technician Employment Opportunities in Amarillo

Amarillo boasts several healthcare facilities and hospitals where EKG Technicians are in demand. Here are some of the city’s top employers:

1. Northwest Texas Healthcare System

   • Location: 1501 S Coulter St, Amarillo, TX
   • Overview: A leading healthcare provider in the region, Northwest Texas Healthcare System offers advanced cardiology services, making it a prime location for EKG Technicians.
   • Careers Page: Northwest Texas Healthcare Careers

2. Baptist St. Anthony’s Health System (BSA)

   • Location: 1600 Wallace Blvd, Amarillo, TX
   • Overview: BSA Health System is another major employer, offering comprehensive cardiac care and continuous job openings for trained EKG Technicians.
   • Careers Page: BSA Health Careers

3. Amarillo VA Healthcare System

   • Location: 6010 Amarillo Blvd W, Amarillo, TX
   • Overview: Serving veterans in the region, this facility focuses on patient-centered cardiac services, providing opportunities for certified EKG Technicians.
   • Careers Page: Amarillo VA Healthcare Careers

Exploring these institutions is a great step toward finding employment in this growing field.

Prerequisites for EKG Technician Programs

Before enrolling in an EKG Technician training program, candidates in Amarillo, Texas, must meet the following standard prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: Required for program enrollment.
• Minimum Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Health Screenings: Negative hepatitis and tuberculosis tests, as well as up-to-date immunizations, are often required.
• Background Check: A clear criminal background check is needed.

Additional requirements may vary by program, so be sure to check with your chosen school.

EKG Technician Certification Requirements

Although Texas does not mandate state licensing for EKG Technicians, certification significantly boosts job prospects. Nationally recognized certifications include:

• NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET)

  • Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

• ASPT Certification

  • Offered by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT).

• ASET Certification

  • Less common, but available through the American Society of Electroneurodiagnostic Technologists (ASET).

To qualify for these certifications, candidates must have completed an accredited training program or have at least one year of supervised employment within the field.

Requirements to Become an EKG Technician in Amarillo, Texas

Here’s a quick recap of Amarillo-specific requirements:

• Training: Complete a state-recognized program that covers core topics in cardiac health and electrocardiography.
• Certification: Pass a national certification exam such as the NHA CET or ASPT exam.
• Health and Background Clearances: Ensure a clean background and proper immunizations.

For more details, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians.

Get Started Today

Starting your career as an EKG Technician in Amarillo, Texas, begins with the right training and certification. Whether you’re new to healthcare or seeking a specialized role, local programs and employers are ready to help you launch your career. Take the first step by researching schools and submitting an application to your program of choice. Your journey to becoming a certified EKG Technician starts now!