Diagnostic medical sonographers assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. They use sound waves or ultrasound technology to take images of different parts of the body. In addition to providing patient care, sonographers are also trained to perform various administrative duties such as maintaining patient records, preparing work schedules and ordering medical supplies. Sonographers can either pursue 2-year or 4-year programs. Some schools offer certificate programs in sonography.
Education
Individuals who are interested in pursuing a degree or certificate program in sonography are advised to enroll into a program that has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Candidates who already hold a bachelor's degree or an allied health associate degree are eligible to enroll in graduate coursework in sonography. Course highlights in sonography include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, medical bioscience and ultrasound basics. Students are required to complete their clinical training by working as interns at a medical facility.
Certification
Although sonographers do not have to have a state license to practice, they can become certified through numerous national accrediting bodies. Candidates who wish to become certified should review the requirements provided by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). ARDMS certifies candidates who have successfully completed their sonography training. Sonographers have the option of being certified as generalists or by selecting specific areas of specialization such as abdomen, breast, obstetric and pediatric sonography. The Sonography Principles and Instrumentation Examination or SPI is a comprehensive exam that evaluates a cadidate's proficiency in areas like patient care, emergency situations, transmission of ultrasound and preventive maintenance.
Continuing Education
Starting in 2012, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonograhy (ARDMS) will provide a 10-year recertification assessment program. Qualified candidates must hold a valid license and are required to take a recertification examination in each of their qualification areas. The examination will be available online; candidates who pass the recertification examination on their first attempt do not have to pay a fee. The exam consists of approximately 50 questions. ARDMS provides a content outline on all the specialty areas on its website.
Considerations
In addition to attending an accredited sonography program, candidates with a background in mathematics and health sciences may qualify for on-the-job training in sonography. Other accrediting bodies for sonographers include the Cardiovascular Credentialing International, which is an accrediting body for vascular and cardiac sonographers. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists accredits sonographers who specialize in breast and cardiac sonography. Sonographers who take their certification examination through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography receive a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) designation.
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