Diagnostic medical sonographers are in high demand, as are many similar and related careers. These careers all involve working with patients and with specialized equipment which administers sound waves and, in some cases, radiation that is used for diagnostic purposes or in the actual treatment of a disease. While the training for these positions requires the acquisition of specific technical knowledge, most education programs are offered as two year associate's degree.
Sonography and Related Technologies
Sonography is just one method of diagnostic imaging. Sonographers use sound waves to produce an image of the insides of a human body which are used for a variety of diagnostic purposes. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are two related forms of diagnostic imaging. Radiographs, or x-rays, are another means of obtaining diagnostic images. In addition, x-rays are used in other procedures, such as radiation therapy.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers use ultrasound technology to generate images used for diagnostic purposes, such as monitoring growth and development of a fetus. Most sonographers complete a two-year training program, such as an associate's degree in diagnostic medical sonography. To become registered as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, sonographers must pass an exam administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) and obtain continuing education credits. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median salaries for all sonographers (including the specialties mentioned below) were $61,980 annually, as of May 2008.
Specialty Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
There are several specialty areas where sonographers use the technology for other specific purposes. Abdominal sonographers diagnose and treat maladies in the abdominal area affecting the gallbladder, bile ducts, kidneys and other organs. Neurosonographers work with the nervous system and brain. Breast sonographers use ultrasound as an aid to mammography to detect breast cancer.
Cardiovascular Technologists
Sonography is also associated with the work of cardiovascular technologists. The technologist may schedule ultrasounds or other procedures, explain the procedures to the patients and assist the doctor in reviewing and interpreting patient files. Cardiovascular technologists may specialize in invasive cardiology, echocardiography or vascular technology. Their training is most commonly a two-year associate's degree in cardiovascular technology or a related area, and certification is offered through the ARDMS. Median annual wages as of May 2008 were $47,010, according to the BLS.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Nuclear medicine is slightly different than diagnostic imaging in that it detects metabolic changes rather than abnormalities in organ structure. Nuclear medicine technologists administer the therapy, in the form of radiopharmaceuticals, which detect these changes. Similar to sonographers, the most common training route is obtaining two-year degree in this area. Licensing requirements for nuclear medicine technologists vary by state, so technologists are advised to check with their state licensing board on requirements. Certification if offered through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The BLS reports median wages of $66,660 annually, as of May 2008.
Radiation Therapists
Radiation therapists use x-rays to administer radiation treatments, usually used in the treatment of cancer. A certificate, associate's or bachelor's degree in radiation therapy is generally required. Most states require licensing. Some states, as well as many employers, require that radiation therapists be certified by the ARRT. Median annual wages for radiation therapists were $72,910, reported by the BLS as of May 2008.
Radiologic Technologists
Radiologic technologists, or radiographers, are another closely related career choice. These technologists produce x-ray films of internal body parts for use in medical diagnosis. Some radiographers specialize in CT, MRI or mammography procedures. Like other related careers, a two-year training program, such as an associate's degree in radiologic technology, is the most common education path. The majority of the states require radiologic technologists to become licensed. Many of these states use the ARRT-administered certification exams for licensing purposes. The BLS reports median annual wages at $52,210 annually, as of May 2008.
Tags: associate degree, Diagnostic Medical, Medical Sonographers, annual wages, annually 2008
