How to Become an Ultrasound Technician in Maryland
Table of Contents
Diagnostic medical sonographers play a vital role in modern health care, using advanced imaging technology to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. As a sonographer in Maryland, you'll work directly with patients while mastering sophisticated ultrasound equipment to capture detailed images of internal organs, blood vessels, and developing fetuses.
Maryland's robust health care network, anchored by prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland Medical System, provides diverse opportunities for ultrasound technicians to specialize and advance their careers. Whether you're drawn to obstetric sonography, cardiac imaging, or vascular studies, this guide outlines the exact steps to launch your career as an ultrasound technician in Maryland.
Key Points:
- Accredited Education: Enroll in a CAAHEP-accredited diagnostic medical sonography program in Maryland to qualify for ARDMS certification exams.
- RDMS Certification: Obtain the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography to enhance employment opportunities.
- Growing Demand: Maryland's health care sector anticipates a 15% growth in ultrasound technician positions over the next ten years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is an Ultrasound Technician?
An ultrasound technician, also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a health care professional who uses specialized equipment to produce images of the body's internal structures. The images assist physicians in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. Sonographers work in specialties such as abdominal, cardiac sonography, vascular, and musculoskeletal imaging.
Ultrasound technicians must have strong technical skills to operate complex imaging equipment and interpret the images produced. They also need excellent interpersonal skills to guide patients through procedures, explain technical processes in understandable terms, and work collaboratively with physicians and other health care professionals.
Ultrasound technicians' primary responsibilities include:
- Operating ultrasound equipment to obtain diagnostic images.
- Preparing and positioning patients for procedures, ensuring comfort and safety.
- Observing images on the screen to ensure quality and making equipment adjustments as needed.
- Providing preliminary findings to physicians.
- Maintaining patient records and ensuring proper functioning of equipment.
Sonographers can specialize in areas like obstetrics, echocardiography, or neurosonology.
Steps to Become an Ultrasound Technician in Maryland
1. Complete a CAAHEP-Accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
Begin by enrolling in a diagnostic medical sonography program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). CAAHEP accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and qualifies graduates to sit for the ARDMS certification exams.
Comparing Ultrasound Technician Programs in Maryland
Maryland offers several accredited programs that provide the education and clinical experience necessary to become a competent ultrasound technician.
{{programs-component}}
The Importance of Accreditation
Attending a CAAHEP-accredited program is crucial. It ensures a quality education and makes graduates eligible to take the ARDMS certification exams immediately after graduation without additional clinical experience.
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
Most diagnostic medical sonography programs in Maryland require a high school diploma or GED, completion of prerequisite courses in math, science, and health, minimum GPA requirements, and possibly entrance exams or interviews.
Choosing a Specialization
Consider career interests when choosing a program. Specialization options may include general sonography, cardiac sonography, or vascular sonography.
Best Program Features
Select a program that offers extensive hands-on training through clinical rotations in health care settings. Clinical experience is vital for developing practical skills and professional connections. Look for programs with small class sizes, access to current technology, and strong relationships with local hospitals and clinics.
Program Length
Associate degree programs in diagnostic medical sonography typically take two years to complete, while bachelor's degree programs may take four years. Certificate programs are also available but often require prior health care education.
2. Pass ARDMS Certification Exams
After completing an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program, take the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) certification exams offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
To earn the RDMS credential:
- Pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) Exam, which assesses understanding of ultrasound physics and instrumentation.
- Pass a Specialty Examination in an area such as Abdomen (AB), Obstetrics \u0026 Gynecology (OB/GYN), or Vascular Technology (VT).
Successfully passing both exams earns the RDMS credential, demonstrating professional competence.
3. Seek Employment in Maryland
Ultrasound technicians in Maryland can find opportunities in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, and physicians' offices. 48% of ultrasound technicians work in hospitals, while the rest work in physicians' offices, medical laboratories, and outpatient care centers.
Some of the largest employers in Maryland include Johns Hopkins Health System, University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), MedStar Health, and Adventist HealthCare. Networking during clinical rotations and utilizing a program's career resources can help secure a position after graduation.
4. Maintain RDMS Certification
To keep the RDMS certification active:
- Complete Continuing Medical Education (CME) Credits by earning ARDMS-approved CME credits every three years.
- Renew Annually by paying the $95 annual renewal fee to ARDMS.
- Adhere to Compliance Policies by confirming compliance with ARDMS standards and policies each year.
Maintaining certification ensures sonographers stay current with advancements in the field and upholds professional standards. Many employers offer support for continuing education and certification renewal.
Licensure in Maryland
Maryland does not require state licensure for ultrasound technicians. However, most employers prefer or require ARDMS certification to ensure a high standard of patient care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualities make a successful ultrasound technician?
Successful ultrasound technicians are detail-oriented, have excellent hand-eye coordination, and possess strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.
Can I specialize in a particular area of sonography?
Yes, ultrasound technicians can specialize in areas such as abdominal, obstetric and gynecologic, cardiac, vascular, or musculoskeletal sonography.
Are there advancement opportunities for ultrasound technicians?
Ultrasound technicians can advance their careers by specializing in a particular area, obtaining additional certifications, or pursuing management or educational roles within the field.
What is the job outlook for ultrasound technicians in Maryland?
The job outlook for ultrasound technicians in Maryland is positive, with a projected 15% growth in positions over the next ten years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Start Your Ultrasound Career in Maryland
With a strong job outlook, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, becoming an ultrasound technician in Maryland offers a rewarding career in health care. Take the first step by exploring CAAHEP-accredited programs and begin the journey toward becoming a certified diagnostic medical sonographer.
