How to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
What does a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer do?
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer schedules and coordinates tests, records test results, and prepares and maintains operational logs. Performs diagnostic sonographic examinations utilizing ultrasonic equipment to locate, evaluate and record critical functional, pathological, and anatomical data. Being a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer requires a two year allied health degree, successful completion of an approved one-year program in Ultrasound Technology in the field. Calibrates and maintains equipment and orders supplies when needed. In addition, Diagnostic Medical Sonographer may require registration with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Typically reports to a chief technologist or manager. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer's years of experience requirement may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position's specialty is the main requirement.
Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body.
The diagnostic medical sonographer presses an instrument called an ultrasound transducer to the parts of the patient’s body that are being examined.
Some responsibilities of a diagnostic medical sonographer include.
Diagnostic medical sonographers specialize in different parts of the body.
Abdominal sonographers specialize in imaging a patient’s abdominal cavity and nearby organs, such as the kidney, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or spleen.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Best tips for those who want to become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Here are some tips to become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.
Find a school that offers a great Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
Take your Ultrasound Physics (Sonographic Principles and Instrumentation – SPI) exam.
You Get To Talk To The Patients.
You Get To Work Hand-in-Hand With A Doctor.
You Can Work With Various Doctors.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Best colleges and universities for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Is being a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Worth it?
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer will be required to conduct multi-specialty diagnostic ultrasound examinations according to departmental procedures and provides high quality care to patients. This individual works under the direction of the Director of Medical Imaging. This person assists in all clinical roles within Cobleskill Regional Hospital ultrasound and vascular laboratory.
Graduate of a formal Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program or Cardiovascular Technology Program, required.
This profession has evolved greatly over the last two decades and the opportunities for on-the-job training for registry requirements has diminished to very few medical facilities that are difficult to find.
Apply to the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers organization for consideration and registry exams.
Become a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer when you have passed two exams.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
What skills do you need to be a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?
Management often looks to professional level roles for execution on their visions and goals, as such some specific skills are required. The workload of this role requires knowledge of: Diagnostic Imaging, Medical Equipment Management (MEM), Operate Specialized Medical Equipment, Perform Diagnostic Tests, Physician Support, Device Calibration, Diagnostic Testing Results Recap. If you highlight these skills during your interview process, you will be more likely to land the job!
A diagnostic medical sonography training program can help you develop all the skills and specialties you need to become a professional sonographer.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are ultrasound professionals, qualified through professional credentials and clinical experience, who offer patients diagnostic imaging services.
Cardiac Sonographers become increasingly important in a patient's lifetime as they age and begin to experience different conditions throughout their life.
The patients are the lifeblood of the healthcare industry, and Diagnostic Medical Sonographers should be prepared to go above and beyond to make sure that they're comfortable and have a clear understanding of the procedures that they're receiving.
Diagnostic medical sonographers must be able to effectively operate and maintain sonographic equipment, evaluate sonograms, and integrate laboratory results, patient histories, and medical records to come to an accurate diagnosis.
Step 6: View average salary for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
How much does a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer make?
The average salary range for a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is from $81,900 to $100,300. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
-
View average salary for the United States
-
Adjust salary by state
Average salary for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Diagnostic Medical Sonographer jobs, and apply.
Looking for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer jobs?
Here are some Diagnostic Medical Sonographer jobs in the United States.