Mega Doctor News –
At South Texas College, students can now gain a hands-on educational experience through the new Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program. From getting a glimpse of an unborn baby to detecting heart disease and identifying cancers, diagnostic medical sonographers help doctors make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment through the use of ultrasound imaging. Applications for the spring 2016 semester are currently being accepted, with a deadline of November 23, 2015.
“The program was developed in response to the current shortage of multi-modality radiologic technologists in our field,” said Crystal Bird, chair of the Radiologic Technology Program. “In order to provide optimal care to the patients who reside in our community, the health care industry is in need of certified technologists who can perform diagnostic radiology examinations as well as associated modalities such as sonography.”
A study conducted by Economic Modeling Specialists Intl., (EMSI) found that Diagnostic Medical Sonographers should experience a 54.3 percent growth rate in the South Texas Region that includes Cameron, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Starr, Willacy, and Zapata counties, with median hourly earnings of $30.39. The EMSI study also showed a 44.4 percent growth rate in the State of Texas between 2014 and 2024, with 2,113 job openings expected during this time period and median hourly earnings of $31.20.
As part of the program, students gain extensive knowledge in the physics and instrumentation of ultrasound imaging, the use of Doppler imaging, and the cross-sectional anatomy and pathophysiology of the human body. Through hands-on clinical and practicum experience, students also have the opportunity to train with experienced sonographers at various local medical facilities.
Students will receive an Advanced Technical Certificate upon successful completion of the 18-month program. They will also be competent to take certification examinations in the areas of abdomen and obstetrics through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
“Healthcare professionals want to gain advanced degree and certificate opportunities in our region,” said Jayson Valerio, interim dean of Nursing and Allied Health. “The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program opens the door for our radiologic technologists to acquire additional skills and credentials.”
Application requirements include an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Radiologic Technology at an accredited program, current certification as a registered technologist by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and current licensure by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
For more information, contact the Radiologic Technology Department at (956) 872-3049 or visit nah.southtexascollege.edu/sono. MDN
