Beyond Textbooks: Why Coastal Georgia’s X-Ray Program Stands Out

The College of Coastal Georgia has had a Radiological Technology Program for decades. However, in recent years, it is becoming known for its collaborative approach to hands-on learning and state-of-the-art technology. Graduates from this program find careers across healthcare, working in x-ray, MRI, CT scans, and mammography, just to name a few. The demand for graduates is significant, with the shortages matching those in nursing.

Lecturer of Radiologic Science and Program Director Ashleigh Spurlock is a practicing radiographer herself. She has created a unique learning experience with a simulation lab that includes Coastal Georgia nursing students working alongside radiologic science students to better replicate a hospital experience.

“They work side by side in the hospitals, so it only makes sense that they should train together during simulations,” Spurlock said, noting that, in many programs, this collaboration does not occur.

This experience puts graduates in a position to be well-prepared for their first job. They have achieved a 100% pass rate on their board exams for the past four years as well as a 100% job placement rate. The feedback from employers and those who interact with the students during clinicals is also positive. The students are more independent and have the critical thinking skills to work through challenging exams.

Being in an area with smaller hospitals, Coastal Georgia students aren’t necessarily exposed during clinicals to the situations one would see in a larger, more active facility. The simulation lab at Coastal Georgia makes up for this by having more quality equipment than most programs, allowing for more hands-on time for each student. Thanks to the generosity of Ron and Carla Kalil, the simulation lab at Coastal Georgia is about to take another major leap forward.

Already strong supporters of the program, the Kalils have a long history of giving to the College. In addition to endowing a scholarship and providing funds for two portable digital x-ray machines, they have just made a transformative $300,000 gift to purchase a state-of-the-art X-ray System Room as well as various manikins, also known as phantoms, which are incredibly sophisticated, mimicking a true human body as closely as possible.

“The Kalils want to have a positive impact on others. Their support through scholarships has changed the trajectory of our students’ lives,” Spurlock said. “Their gifts allow us to better train our students to practice empathy, high-quality patient care, communication skills, high-level critical thinking, and exam performance.”

Dr. Johnny Evans, interim president of the College, adds, “This significant enhancement to our Radiological Technology Program not only elevates the quality of education we can offer but also reinforces our commitment to serving the community. Our students will be better prepared to meet the healthcare needs of our region, ensuring that we have well-trained professionals ready to provide excellent care.”

Renovations are planned to house a new Simulation Center to incorporate all the new and existing equipment. The end result will be a facility and program unlike any other in the area, preparing both future radiographers and nurses for successful careers.