Click here to view video.
Diagnostic medical sonographers use specialized equipment to create images of structures inside the human body, which are used by physicians to make a medical diagnosis. Ultrasound technology produces high frequency sound waves (like sonar) that are reflected by internal organs in varying patterns. These are then converted by a computer into a moving picture, or image, which sonographers are trained to examine for subtle signs of problems. Sonographers prepare patients physically and mentally, explain procedures, position patients, and obtain medical images used for diagnosis.
Sonographers can work in clinics, hospitals, private practice physician offices, public health facilities, laboratories, and other medical settings performing examinations in their areas of specialization. They may perform ultrasonic examinations at the bedside or in surgery.
Other workplace settings:
$70,400
According to the BLS, overall employment of medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians is projected to grow 14 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 12,000 openings for medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Diagnostic medical sonographer/ultrasound technologists receive their education through academic programs at hospitals, community colleges, and colleges or universities. Advanced certificate programs for persons with prior training are usually one year in length.
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
1401 Rockville Pike, Suite 600
Rockville, MD 20852-1402
(800) 541-9754
www.ardms.org
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
2745 Dallas Parkway, Suite 350
Plano, TX 75093-8730
(800) 229-9506
www.sdms.org