Vascular Sonography Career and Salary Information
Job Descriptions June 21, 2013Vascular sonographers gather information about the conditions of the vascular system through the use of specialized equipment. These professionals work to help physicians diagnose vascular disorders. Certification may be sought by a sonographer in order to improve his or her career opportunities.
Vascular Sonographer Salary Information
In 2006, the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) conducted a survey and found that nearly fifty percent of registered vascular sonographers (also known as vascular technologists or technicians) earned an average annual salary of $50,000 or more (source: www.svunet.org). Additionally, in October 2010, the median salary for vascular sonographers was reported by Salary.com to be around $60,566.
Vascular Sonographer Career Information
Vascular sonographers are expected to assist physicians in diagnosing patients through the use of ultrasound procedures. By choosing the appropriate type of ultrasound technology; vascular sonographers will be adept at properly detecting, assessing and diagnosing certain vascular disorders including conditions of the carotid artery that could lead to stroke and conditions of the abdominal aorta that could lead to an aneurysm.
Additionally, they also help diagnose conditions of the arteries and veins that could potentially lead to peripheral arterial disease, or blood clots, respectively. Vascular sonographers also help record and interpret test results.
There are approximately 15,000 people employed as vascular sonographers in the nation, according to the Society for Vascular Ultrasound. Furthermore, hospitals are the main employers of vascular technicians and account for nearly two-thirds of these professionals. While there are many clinics that employ vascular sonographers to help specialists such as cardiologists and vascular surgeons, most of these professionals may want to start their own clinics and labs.
Vascular Sonographer Training
These professionals are expected to hold an associate’s degree or certification by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS – www.ardms.org). On the passage of the ARDMS’ two-part exam, prospective students will be awarded a Registered Vascular Technician credential. About a third of all labs and clinics in the United States expect these professionals to carry an ARDMS certification (SVU). Those who complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field can seek jobs in academia or research settings.
