Employment and Salary Information for Sonogram Technicians
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Work Environment
More than half of all sonographers are employed by hospitals, but some work in private practice physician offices, medical diagnostic laboratories, public-health facilities, and other medical settings. Although most sonographers work in healthcare facilities, some travel to patients in vans equipped with medical diagnostic equipment. Full-time sonographers typically work 40 hours a week, although those employed by hospitals may have to work in the evening or on the weekend, or sometimes be on call—required to report to work on a short notice if needed.
Along with personal requirements such as compassion, this job has a number of physical demands. Sonographers must stand on their feet for long periods of time, and should be able to work while standing up to 80 percent of their day. They should be able to lift more than 50 pounds routinely, as they are often required to assist patients on and off examining tables, and to lift and turn disabled patients. They must be able to bend and stoop, push and pull on a regular basis. Sensory requirements include the ability to distinguish audible sounds, and to identify color differences on sonograms.
What Factors Have a Bearing on Salary?
The salary for a sonographer varies based on a number of factors including years of experience, level of education, specialization, credentialing, and geographic location. Sonographers who are registered with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers can expect a higher salary, as professionals who earn their credentials are generally paid more. Sonographers who can practice in more than one specialty can also earn more, as they are more versatile and can conduct a number of procedures, making them valuable to hospitals. While salaries vary widely based on all of these factors, the median salary for a typical certified sonographer in the United States in 2006 was $61,980.
What is the Job Outlook in This Field?
The field of sonography is a rapidly growing one, with new technologies and techniques constantly developing. The field is expected to grow more than the average because physicians and patients alike are keen to minimize the use of more dangerous radiologic procedures. Qualified sonographers should be able to find employment opportunities in both urban and rural settings across the nation. If the demand for qualified sonographers continues to exceed the supply, as is expected, the job outlook for those in the field will be quite favorable.
Article Resources:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Radiology Info
Salary Wizard