What Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Do
Diagnostic medical sonographers use imaging devices that emit sound waves to create the image that will help physicians assess and diagnose various conditions. There are different kinds of imaging devices, this includes ultrasounds, sonograms, and echocardiograms. Generally sonographic imaging devices use a handheld probe, which is moved over the area being surveyed to create a two-dimensional or three-dimensional image. These devices can be used for therapy, diagnosis, and even to guide interventional procedures like biopsies or draining fluid collections.
Types of Work Environments
- Hospitals
- Imaging clinics
Education and Training Requirements
Diagnostic medical sonographers must have a certificate/diploma or an associate degree from an accredited program and must be certified by passing an exam administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median salary for diagnostic medical sonographers is approximately $80,850 per year.
Professional Organizations
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Learn More
- Meet a diagnostic medical sonographer: Amy.
- Diagnostic medical sonography programs affiliated with Cleveland Clinic.
- Visit the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program (Beachwood) and School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program (Mercy) webpages.