Many of us have dreams related to becoming a doctor but only few have thought that becoming an ultrasound expert also entails the benefits of becoming a physician. Just for a few advantages, a physician and ultrasound sonographer has both stable jobs after graduation and will have high pay package in their respective fields. So why not try to pursue ultrasound sonography instead of the very long years of studying medicine to become a doctor. Here are the important steps to start your career towards becoming a successful ultrasound technician.
Choose The Right Subjects During High School Education
In preparation for an ultrasound technician career after completing high school education, the student should have background in Mathematics, English, computer science, health and physical and life sciences. Patient interaction is one of the important responsibilities of the technician that is why these subjects are required. Proper management and maneuvering of the ultrasound machine is also one of the job descriptions, which is why background in different field of sciences is required.
Enroll In Accredited Ultrasound Tech Schools For Education, Training And Expertise
In order to become an ultrasound sonographer, proper education and training are required. You can select whether you go for a one-year degree program, a two-year associate’s degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree. One important consideration is the accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs awarded by the training school. For the professionals who are already working in other health care positions such as the radiological technologists, it is recommended for them to take the one-year certificate program to increase their expertise in the field of ultrasound technology.
Prepare For The License From The ARDMS
After completion of the chosen degree program in ultrasound technology, it is optional to become a licensed ultrasound technician. You can have the certification credentialing examination from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers to have the license you need. The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics advised that there are states that require certification from the ARDMS so it is essential to know the state rules of the area where you are applying a technician. Chance of employment is improved when you are a licensed sonographer.
Apply for Work at Hospitals and Physician Offices
It is now time to apply for a job after completion of the degree course. Since the course is highly in demand today, several employers are looking for ultrasound technicians for hospitals, laboratories, and private clinics. Did you know that an ultrasound sonographer earns a minimum of $45,000 to $52,000 annually for the technician having little experience and for those with years of experience will reach $69,000 annually? However, this varies in the geographical location of the employment, the experience of the technician and whether it is a hospital based or clinic based job. There is high salary in hospital-based technicians when compared to the technicians in a private clinic or laboratory.
Following the steps provided above is essential to have a successful career as ultrasound technician. Just remember to start your career right by studying the required subjects in your high school education to be qualified in the application for degree programs. When choosing the school, make sure it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Secure license from the ARDMS to have a high demand in the field medical sonography and have a stable and high paying job as ultrasound sonographer.
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