Find Echo Cardiac Education Programs in Alaska

Cardiac Ultrasound (Echocardiology) in Alaska

Alaska is a very unique state, unlike any other with its large expanse of rural area. However, the Alaska Labor and Workforce Development has stated that the health care industry has grown steadily over the past 20 years, and it is expected to continue this growth. Alaska also has more baby boomers than ever before, so there is a greater need for well-trained medical personnel.

If you would like to make a positive impact on Alaska healthcare by becoming an echo tech, contact the schools below to learn about your options.

Cardiac Ultrasound Technicians are specially trained Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. This career can also include vascular technologists, and these jobs require operating the special imaging equipment. These procedures are considered to be some of the most cost-effective methods to assess the function and anatomy of the heart.

New equipment is being developed at a rapid pace, and this is a growing field of health technology for future employment. If you are considering becoming a sonographer, you are entering a field that is interesting and more secure than many.

Echo Tech/Cardiac Ultrasound Education in Alaska

If you are interested in this career, you will have to choose the program that best fulfills your career goals, such as Cardiac Imaging, Magnetic Resonance (MRI), Radiology, Sonography or Vascular.

There are currently no CAAHEP-accredited schools in Alaska, but there are several online ultrasound tech programs. The online programs include a certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, an Associate Degree in Medical Sonography or a Bachelor of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The online programs include clinical training at local hospitals guided by a certified instructor.

Ultrasound training requires from 24 to 48 months, depending on your university’s requirements. If you already have an associate degree, you may get a credential in 12 months.

An official high school diploma with a high school transcript or a GED is required for entrance into any program.

Undergraduate certificate programs require 30 credits or more and they offer focused attention in a concentrated area. Associate degrees require 60 credits or more with a focused curriculum in addition to broad studies in general education areas. Baccalaureate programs require 120 credits, and they provide a more extensive preparation in your specific area of study.

Some of the basic courses can include:

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Instrumentation
  • Physics
  • Patient Care
  • Medical Ethics
  • Clinical Courses

If you enroll in an online echo tech program in Alaska, your clinical hours will likely be spent in a facility in your area, and you should have a qualified advisor for guidance.

Once you have your degree from a CAAHEP accredited institution, you are eligible to take the certification exam given by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). You may prepare for the exam by taking practice exams and studying the content outlines.

Echo Tech Careers in Alaska

There is no license required for Cardiac Ultrasound Technicians in Alaska, but most employers will not hire a sonographer without the ARDMS certificated.

FIND SCHOOLS
Sponsored Content

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2013 the annual average salary for this job is $53,990. Income is always based on your education, your credential and your experience.

As a Cardiac Ultrasound Technician, you may find employment at numerous sites, such as hospitals, medical centers, doctor’s offices and other sites.

An experienced echo technician with the appropriate training may have the following duties, which include:

  • Performing various diagnostic procedures and tests
  • Operating specialized equipment
  • Recording and transmitting images and echoes
  • Interpreting and understanding the results of the tests

This is an exciting and rewarding career that is expected to grow faster than the average job over the next decade. Reach out to the echo tech programs in Alaska listed below to learn more!