Cardiovascular Technologist Programs in Missouri
Echocardiograph technicians use advanced technology to assess and monitor the cardiac activity of patients. They use ultrasound to perform tests on pediatric and adult patients, and share their findings verbally and in writing with a team of medical providers. Echo techs, also called cardiac sonographers, meet with multiple patients each day. They discuss medical histories, explain imaging procedures, and perform tests to monitor the heart, blood vessels, and blood flow to surrounding tissues. These tests are critical for making decisions about patient care.
If you would like to enter this profession, contact the schools listed below to get program details.
Echo Tech/Cardiac Ultrasound Education in Missouri
In Missouri, there are educational opportunities to earn Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees in areas like Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound and Diagnostic Imaging, where students can choose to specialize in Echocardiography. Core courses include anatomy of the heart and blood vessels, medical terminology, vascular ultrasound, and cardiac pathology. Classroom based education is combined with substantial clinical experience in most accredited programs.
In addition, several certificates programs provide career-specific training to people who already have some higher education and healthcare experience. To be accepted into most certificate programs, applicants must have already earned an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree and have prior work or volunteer experience in a patient care setting. These programs typically have substantial prerequisite coursework in several areas, including college algebra, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology and others.
Financial assistance is available from a combination of sources including scholarships, grants, and loans. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to be eligible for federal grants and loans. Many students rely on public and private loans to pay for a substantial portion of their degrees. Some foundations and professional organizations, including the American Society of Echocardiography, offer scholarships for exceptional students.
Echo Tech Careers in Missouri
The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is a national organization that awards credentials of Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) after passing two comprehensive exams. Upon completion of a degree or certificate, all students should pursue credentialing. The state of Missouri does not require licensure, but it is becoming more common for employers to require that new employees are registered.
Echo techs primarily work in hospital settings, but increasingly may find employment in outpatient clinics. They are often required to work evening, overnight and weekend shifts, in addition to daytime hours. In Missouri, echo techs earn an average of $22.04/hr or $45,850 annually (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014). Jobs in this field are expected to increase 30% over the next 10 years.
Contact the schools listed on our site to learn more about your options for becoming an echo tech in Missouri today.