DMS Career

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Career

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers operate specialized equipment to capture images or tests for use in the diagnostic process. The majority of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers work in hospitals or doctor’s offices. Others are employed at privately run diagnostic laboratories or medical facilities.

What Does a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Do?

As part of a patient care team consisting of physicians, nurses and surgeons, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers play a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are often responsible for:

  • Explaining procedures and answering patient questions
  • Ensuring the continuity and quality of patient care
  • Prepare and position patients for imaging processes
  • Maintain imaging equipment
  • Review images and tests and provide summaries for patient care teams

By executing these key tasks, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers help treat patients facing a wide range of medical conditions and concerns.

What Certifications or Degrees Do I Need to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?

Employment as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer requires an Associate of Science degree, or completion of a one-year certification course offered by an accredited hospital or college. Due to the requirements of insurance providers and Medicare programs, many employers prefer candidates with bachelor’s degrees, however.

Individuals must also pass the national certification exam and obtain licensure or certification from a state body if necessary, or a professional certification from a private industry organization.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers may choose to focus on a specific type of imaging, including:

  • Pediatric sonography
  • Abdominal sonography
  • Breast sonography
  • Musculoskeletal sonography
  • Gynecologic sonography
  • Cardiovascular sonography
  • Vascular sonography

A focus in any of these specialized imaging types may require additional training, education or certification.

What Is the Employment Outlook for a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?

A recent study of employment within the health care industry found that just over 110,000 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are employed throughout the United States. The same survey projects that number to grow by an estimated 27,000 jobs, or 24 percent, by the year 2024.

Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. Apply Today.

In as little as 28 months, you can begin a rewarding career as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. Apply for our Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography program today.

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