Ultrasound Technician Schools in Florida

Guide to Florida Ultrasound & Sonographer Degree Programs

The ultrasound technician is an integral part of any healthcare team. The sonogram is a painless and non-invasive procedure that uses sound wave technology to capture images of the internal structures of the body.  Those images are then turned into videos or photographs that the attending physician can use to help diagnosis issues.  Because these procedures don’t involve any type of surgery, they are very useful in helping to determine issues with patients in a cost effective manner.  With the elderly population in Florida, the ultrasound is a safer alternative to many other invasive procedures that would require the use of anesthesia.

A good sonographer needs to have excellent communication skills.  As part of this job, the nature of the procedure needs to be thoroughly explained to the patient.  The ultrasound technician needs to be able to take a patient history and listen to patient concerns.  A good sonographer must be able to treat patients with respect and compassion, even in difficult situations.  This may be a very fast paced working environment in a hospital or a busy office, so the sonographer needs to be able to work efficiently with minimal supervision.

If you live in the state of Florida, you have several quality options to earn your certificate or degree as a sonographer.  Most programs will take anywhere from one to four years to complete, so you can be on the job relatively quickly.  You may choose to extend your education and become a registered diagnostic medical sonographer or a registered diagnostic vascular sonographer.  There are other specialty areas within this field as well.  

Florida Ultrasound & Sonographer Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for qualified and experienced sonographers in all parts of Florida continues to move in a positive direction. Ultrasound technicians can expect to find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, private physicians’ offices, public clinics, and laboratories.  Work may also be available as part of a mobile imaging service team that travels to different offices and clinics to provide quality care. Because of the nature of this type of job, there are some physical requirements to consider.  The ultrasound technician must be able to stand for long periods of time to operate the equipment properly.  Sonographers must also have keen eyesight and steady hands to capture the necessary images.

Once you complete your education, you can expect to make an annual salary as a full-time sonographer that ranges between $49,000 and $69,000.  The salary you earn will be dependent on the area you live and the employment setting, meaning those working in Miami at a major hospital can expect to earn more than a sonographer at a private practice in a more rural area of Florida.  Salaries are also dependent on the experience, education, and specialization of the sonographer.  Some areas of specialization that may garner a higher salary are vascular, obstetrics and gynecology, and neurosonology.