Healthcare is one of those career areas that are slated to grow at a tremendous pace shortly. The new and emerging opportunities in this field today make it a lucrative and fulfilling career choice.
However, you need to know about the opportunities to build a meaningful career in healthcare services. You may have never heard of a diagnostic medical sonographer, but they are very important in health services.
This article provides a job description for a diagnostic medical sonographer. You will learn about job responsibilities, eligibility requirements, growth prospects, pay, and benefits.
What Is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?
Diagnostic medical sonographers are easily one of the most in-demand medical professionals today.
Sometimes referred to simply as a sonographer, a diagnostic medical sonographer is the guy you see at hospitals’ diagnostic centers.
The professional is trained to operate medical imaging equipment and use ultrasound to capture images of different body parts.
Based on the analysis of the imagery provided by the sonographer, the doctors can diagnose various ailments and provide relevant treatment to the patient.
Also Read: Job Description – Emergency Medical Technician
Primary Job Responsibilities of a Sonographer
Some key responsibilities and tasks a diagnostic medical sonographer performs include the following.
- Carry out diagnostic procedures and medical imaging as the physician/surgeon prescribes.
- Assist the patients and guide them during the sonographic procedures.
- Record the critical readings of the procedures and capture high-quality images.
- Analyze the ultrasounds’ outputs and write reports to the doctors based on them.
- Maintain and upkeep the sonographic equipment and call for repairs when required.
Educational & Work Experience Requirements
Education
To become a professional diagnostic medical sonographer, one needs formal education and practical training.
Several programs run by universities and medical training institutions holistically incorporate both of these job requirements.
Such programs typically last 1 to 3 years, with the ideal duration being 2 years, which would earn you a professional diploma in diagnostic medical sonography.
One can also go with a 1-year certificate or diploma program if one has some prior education or training in an allied medical field. The 3-year programs are advanced training programs leading to super specialization.
Experience
While finding a job as a sonographer with no experience is not impossible, having a few months of on-the-job experience is a big plus to kickstart your career.
During the initial phase of a career, one can acquire such experience by volunteering or participating in community service programs at medical centers.
Salary & Wages
The profession of a diagnostic medical sonographer is pretty decent in salary. It has an above-average starting salary.
The average salary of a diagnostic medical sonographer in the United States is around $73,774 per annum. As you start your career, you can expect a minimum annual salary of $50,000.
How & Where to Apply for the Job?
Once you get the right education and training, you can apply for the diagnostic medical sonographer job.
You can search for job openings on career websites like Monster and Indeed. Alternatively, you can apply physically with the local hospitals, medical centers, diagnostic labs, and institutions.
The job application typically requires you to produce your educational transcripts, experience certificates, and a few other documents. Further, you may be asked to perform a probationary exercise before being confirmed into the job role.
Conclusion
So, if the career path interests you and you fulfill the conditions mentioned, you’ll be happy to know you have plenty of opportunities in this health career.