Cardiovascular Technologist Programs in Pennsylvania
The healthcare industry is a fascinating and challenging career field. If you are considering a career in the medical field, consider becoming an ultrasound technician. Also known as echocardiogram technicians, imaging technicians, or simply ultrasound techs, these trained professionals are an integral part of the overall medical team.
Submit your request for information to the cardiac ultrasound schools listed below to learn more.
Echo technicians are highly trained in many different core courses as well as many different clinical courses that will simulate the actual work done on the job. Echo technicians perform imaging scans and then interpret the data for the rest of the medical team. Patients can be assured that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
Cardiac Ultrasound/Echo Technician Education and Training in Pennsylvania
Potential echocardiogram technicians in Pennsylvania can expect to receive training from either quality traditional universities or more flexible online programs. The coursework will include courses in anatomy, physiology, imaging techniques, ethical standards and clinical coursework specific to sonography.
While there are generally no programs that focus specifically on echocardiogram technology, two year programs in radiology include a broad spectrum of necessary coursework as well as specific courses ultrasound technology.
Pennsylvania does not require licensure of any kind but most employers will require employees to be certified through the AAMT, or American Association of Radiologic Technicians. AART requires successful completion of an accredited academic program as well as a passing score on a competency based exam. Certification has to be renewed every two years.
Within the field of medical imaging, students have the opportunity to specialize in several different areas including cardiac imaging, radiology, MRI and sonography. The clinical coursework that is required will include practical experience using the most current imaging equipment available. Technicians will not only perform the scans, but they will be knowledgeable about reading and interpreting the data as well.
You may choose to work while obtaining your degree or certificate, in which case you may choose an ultrasound tech program that allows part time enrollment in lieu of full time enrollment, allowing you to continue working.
After graduation, students should apply for certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This organization not only certifies competence in the field of radiology but participants will have access to many other different resources including continuing education opportunities, access to the latest research available and opportunities to network with other professional peers. For more information, contact the schools you see on our site to learn more.
Working as a Cardiac Ultrasound/Echocardiogram Technician in Pennsylvania
Working as an echocardiogram technician is a challenging and rewarding career. Echo techs work very flexible, high demand hours but the work is steady and the job is secure. The mean salary for ultrasound technicians in Pennsylvania is $59,620 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
There are many different opportunities for employment for echo technicians in Pennsylvania including hospitals, radiology specialty clinics, urgent care facilities and physician’s offices. Reach out to the schools that offer cardiac ultrasound programs to get started.