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An ultrasound technician is a trained professional who operates and maintains imaging equipment that is used to get a better look at a patient internally. The images created are then used by a physician to make a proper diagnosis. The guide below will give you a complete overlay of what you can expect from this career and the requirements to become an ultrasound technician.
Ultrasound Technician Salary Information:
The ultrasound technician salary range will largely depend on the experience level of the technician's education, the number of specialties practiced, the geographic location, the facility as well as many other factors. The median technician salary is just short of $62,000 annually so the prospects are great regardless. The hourly wages for an ultrasound technician average out to around $30 an hour with most technicians and related professionals working an average of three overtime hours a week and earning an additional $3 per hour for on-call work.
Ultrasound Technician Education Requirements:
Most colleges and schools will provide courses, degrees, programs, and certifications in diagnostic medical ultrasound. It is rapidly becoming one of the most popular degrees due to the increasing demand for advanced healthcare. Students can expect to graduate in a 2 year period or even sooner if you have additional time and can double up on courses. According to the United States Labor Department statistics, the employment of ultrasound technicians is expected to increase rapidly and grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012 and than it will begin rapidly expanding after the year 2016 when the new Health Care Bill is expected to come into full effect.
Ultrasound Technician Work Environment:
Ultrasound technicians have the ability to work in a variety of places but will most commonly end up working in a hospital. At the hospital, you have the option to work in trauma, critical care, the operating room, CT scanning, MRI, fluoroscopy or angiography. The good news is that the actual job itself is not stressful but you may end up working long hours, especially if you are in the trauma or the critical care units where you will be on call. You will also need to have or develop good interpersonal skills as you will be working with other medical staff. More good news is that there is a constant need for ultrasound technicians so will have no problem finding employment.
By choosing this career path, you will lead to a rewarding and safe career. Remember that you can take full advantage of government and state programs that give grants to students. Be sure to contact local colleges and schools around your area about help with tuition as they will be more than accommodating. By doing a little groundwork and research upfront, you will have no problem becoming an ultrasound technician. |
