Louisiana Sonography Tech Careers and Degrees
Receiving your Sonogram Technician Training in Louisiana
Students enrolled in sonogram technician training in Louisiana learn about using sonograms to diagnose medical conditions and provide assistance in the care of a range of patients. You will take courses in ultrasound patient care, ultrasound practices, physics and instruments, abdomen sonography, obstetrics/gynecology sonography, and superficial structures. Some prorams require prerequisite courses in English, algebra, human anatomy and physiology, psychology, and medical terminology. Most programs provide laboratory components and clinical experiences at local healthcare facilites to provide students with hands on learning experience.
Louisiana is home to two postsecondary institutions that offer sonogram technician training: Delgado Community College and Louisiana State University Eunice. Delgado Community College offers a post-associate certificate. The program is full-time and takes 16 months to complete. It requires 33 credits of core courses. Graduates of the program are prepared to take the national licensing examination administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Individuals can take the exam in abdomen, ultrasound physics, and obstetrics and gynecology. Louisiana State University in Eunice offers a Certificate of Applied Science program. The program requires 40 credits of core courses and 23 credits of prerequisites. Graduates of the program are prepared to take the national licensing examination in abdomen and obstetrics and gynecology. Graduates of the program are prepared to work as entry-level sonogram technicians in a variety of areas.
Sonography technician Licensing in Louisiana
Currently, the state of Louisiana does not require licensing or certification for sonogram technicians. The Louisiana State Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners only requires those using ionizing radiation to become licensed. However, many employers prefer individuals who have registered with a professional organization, like the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. These individuals gain the designation Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. To gain this certification, graduates must complete all prerequisites and clinical experience required by the organization, and receive satisfactory scores on comprehensive examinations. Individuals must also renew their certification on a yearly basis.
Career Outlook for Sonogram Technicians in Louisiana
Overall in the United States, the growth of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to increase much faster than average for all jobs. By the year 2020, the expected growth rate is 44 percent, as reported by the BLS. As ultrasound technology advances, more healthcare facilities will use it to replace more expensive and invasive procedures. Hospitals are the primary employers of sonographers, but these professionals also work in clinics, private doctor’s offices, laboratories, public health agencies, and for medical sonography equipment sales companies. Employment in the other settings will likely continue to rise as healthcare increases focus on outpatient care.
Actual annual salaries for sonogram technicians in Louisiana vary, based on an array of factors, such as specific location, position, employer, certification, and benefits. One major aspect that affects the pay of sonogram technicians is the type of medical facility. In general, those who work for hospitals make the lowest, but they may enjoy more benefits and flexible schedules. On the other hand, sonographers working in the sales field earn higher pay, but commonly work longer hours and may have to work on weekends and holidays and travel frequently.