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Those interested in a diverse career in the healthcare and medical industry can enjoy a job as a sonographer. This fast-paced role can take you in many different directions, and you can specialize your area of expertise in varied fields, such as neurosonology, obstetrics, diagnostic cardiovascular, and Diagnostic medical. However, there are several things to consider if you want a thriving career in sonography. Here is a short guide about the role of a sonographer and a few pointers to help you achieve this career
1. How to Become a Sonographer
There are many educational paths that lead to a career in sonography. Prospective sonographers can obtain a post-secondary level certificate via a community college or vocational tech school or earn an associate degree. These options can take as little as 12 months. Those who want to advance their career further should earn a relevant bachelor’s degree. Although these can take 4 years to complete, graduates can enjoy broader career opportunities and a higher earning potential. Additionally, those with an associate degree and are already working as a sonographer can enroll in an accelerated Diagnostic Medical Sonography Degree if they want to skip the years of study. These programs can be achieved in just 7 weeks and are taught 100 percent online, which makes it easier for working professionals to learn while they earn a living.
2. What is a Sonographer?
A sonographer is a healthcare professional who uses ultrasound equipment to perform diagnostic and follow-up examinations. Using this equipment, sonographers can detect various health conditions and monitor the overall health and well-being of their patients. These tests and examinations are painless, and the ultrasound images are used by medical professionals to check for abnormalities and changes in the body. They are also used to check treatments are going to plan.
3. Diagnostic Ultrasound Technology
Equipment using diagnostic ultrasound technology works by transmitting sound waves into a patient’s body using an ultrasound probe, also called a transducer. The waves that echo back are then recorded to create ultrasound images. This is a non-invasive procedure, and the images captured can be used in the assessment and diagnosis of a patient’s potential medical condition or disease
4. Key Responsibilities
There are many different types of sonographers, and the responsibilities can vary depending on the area of specialism and the area of practice. In general, a sonographer’s tasks can include offering reassurance to patients and preparing them for the procedure, carrying out the procedure, and recording sonogram data. Sonographers are also in charge of image analysis and identifying abnormalities, reporting data to healthcare professionals, assisting surgeons during an operation, and maintaining ultrasound equipment.
5. Advanced Degrees
Those who wish to branch out in administration, research, or education will have a higher chance of earning a post-bachelor’s certificate or a relevant master’s degree.
6. Earning Potential and Career Outlook
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical sonographers can expect to earn an average salary of $75,920 per year. Furthermore, from 2020 to 2030, sonographers have a faster than average employment growth rate of 14 percent.