You may be surprised to hear that a career in sonography is booming. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the projected job growth between now and 2030 is a whopping 14%, way above the national average. This career also offers outstanding pay, with the reported 2021 median pay being over $75,000.
It only takes two years to get your degree in diagnostic medical sonography, but what are your job choices after that? Besides great job security and above-average pay, sonography also offers a huge variety of work opportunities and environments in Miami. This means you’ll get to pick from a large range of specializations and experience a variety of important duties.
Job Duties of a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Sonographers use ultrasound imaging equipment to capture images of the body parts, organs and blood vessels. After analyzing these images, they communicate their findings to physicians. This helps doctors diagnose patients and determine the right course of treatment.
Sonographers are an essential part of the medical team and typically have busy days. You may be with patients for part of the day and working on imaging the next. To be a successful sonographer, you’ll have to be good at multitasking. Doctors and patients rely on the information you give, so you’ll need to have strong communication skills as well.
Here are some typical job duties of a medical sonographer:
- Prepare patients for procedures
- Communicate with patients during the ultrasound and answer questions
- Review patient history and record ultrasound results
- Operate machinery and review images
- Analyze images and communicate findings to physicians
- Coordinate care with the rest of the medical team
As a sonographer, you’ll work alongside medical staff and patients of all ages. Most sonographers work in hospitals, but you can also work in a clinic or specialized lab. The job has a good work/life balance, with most sonographers working a regular 40-hour workweek.
Choose a Diagnostic Sonography Specialization
Once you get your diagnostic medical sonography degree, you can choose from a variety of specializations. Some of these include:
- Abdomen Sonography
- Vascular Sonography
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Sonography
- Breast Sonography
- Musculoskeletal System Sonography
- Echocardiography
- Neurosonography
- Cardiac Sonography
Specializing in specific areas will improve your job prospects and also give you choices. You’ll have the freedom to work in an area you’re passionate about and become an expert in that field. Examinationsadministered by The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) will help you earn specialized credentials in ultrasound.
Get Your Diagnostic Medical Sonography Degree at Cambridge
If you’re interested in jumpstarting your healthcare career in Miami, Cambridge can help you get there. Our diagnostic medical sonography programs will teach you about sonography anatomy and specializations. You’ll also get hands-on practice through our clinical externship and on-site training at our local healthcare facilities. Reach out to us today at 877-206-4279 or send us a message to get started.