Medical imaging is an essential part of the modern diagnostic process. Diagnostic medical sonography, also called ultrasound, allows doctors to detect and identify health conditions early. The prompt response, in many cases, saves lives. National Polytechnic College (NPCollege) is a school of medical imaging in Lakewood, California, providing high-quality training programs. Here, we discuss medical ultrasound, the career outlook, and how to become an ultrasound technician and kickstart your new career.
What to Expect as an Ultrasound Technician
Ultrasound technicians, who are also called diagnostic medical sonographers, work in a variety of healthcare settings including hospitals or physician’s offices. Though most work full-time, part-time jobs are not uncommon. As with many medical professions, technicians spend most of their day on their feet. A typical workday may demand duties such as:
- Handling and reviewing patient medical records
- Educating patients on the ultrasound process
- Preparing patients for testing
- Operating medical sonography equipment
- Reviewing images to determine their usefulness for diagnosis
- Identifying abnormal results and alerting physicians
- Recording images in patient records
- Coordinating care with other practices or departments
Throughout the process, ultrasound technicians work with a wide variety of individuals. Within the workplace, they communicate and coordinate with physicians, nurses, and other medical staff. They also interact directly with patients of all ages and from all backgrounds. If you love working with people, this may be the right career path for you.
Steps to Become an Ultrasound Technician
Entering the medical industry may seem intimidating. When many people imagine medical careers, they think of strenuous degree programs, costly tuition, or the rigors of earning a doctorate. Fortunately, becoming an ultrasound technician is more approachable. This makes the career ideal for individuals who are interested in the medical industry, but don’t want to go through a lengthy education. You can kickstart a new medical career with the following steps:
Earn a High School Diploma
Most ultrasound technician programs, including the one offered at NPCollege, require students to first earn their high school diploma. A General Education Development certificate, or GED certificate, is an acceptable alternative. This diploma or certificate is your gateway to almost any career.
Complete a Diploma Program or Associate Degree
Next, you need to enroll in a related training program. NPCollege offers a 24-month ultrasound diploma program and a 26-month associate degree program. Students participate in a combination of hands-on laboratory work, clinical practicum, and classroom lectures on a variety of topics including anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. This program will prepare you for the certification exam and success in your future ultrasound technologist career.
Take an Ultrasound Certification Exam
Finally, you must take and pass an ultrasound certification exam to become certified. The American Registry of Radiology Technologists (ARRT) administers certifications for program graduates across the nation, empowering them to work in a variety of healthcare settings as medical sonographers or ultrasound technicians.
Ultrasound Technician Career Outlook
After completing a training program and earning your certification, you open the door to a thriving career path. The medical industry is growing rapidly, and imaging is one of its cornerstones. Without advanced imaging tests providing prompt and accurate diagnosis, doctors cannot deliver the high-quality care that patients need to get better.
This is why ultrasound technicians are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of diagnostic medical sonographers will grow 11% over the next decade – much faster than the average for all occupations. California is one of the highest-employing states with over 8,600 positions across the state.
Ultrasound technicians are also paid well. The average reported salary according to BLS is $80,850 per year or $37.87 per hour. If you remain in California, this number may be even higher: ultrasound technicians in CA earn an average of $96,986 each year. This means that careers in medical sonography have the potential to be extremely lucrative – and only require two years of training.
The positive job outlook and competitive salary of ultrasound technicians result in strong job security. Combining these benefits with the rewarding feeling of helping people often leads to increased job satisfaction.
Choosing a Training Program
When you start on your road to becoming an ultrasound technician, it’s important to make the most of your opportunities by choosing a top educational institution. Your school should be accredited by a reputable agency as proof of its quality.
National Polytechnic College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and by the U.S. Department of Education. Our staff is composed of highly qualified instructors with extensive experience and outstanding educational backgrounds. They are in active contact with clinical sites, helping students connect with potential employers through our career services. We are committed to preparing students for a competitive job market – helping you toward a new opportunity.
Start Your Ultrasound Technician Career at NPCollege
Are you ready to get started on a new career as an ultrasound technician? Start training today at National Polytechnic College. Located in Lakewood, we serve students throughout CA with our excellent training programs. We also offer financial aid for students who qualify. To learn more about how to become an ultrasound technician or about our admissions, contact us today at 1-888-379-4090.