When it comes to the field of healthcare, there are many different career paths to choose from. Two popular options for those interested in medical imaging are diagnostic medical sonography and radiology technology. Both careers involve the use of specialized equipment to capture images of the human body, but there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of diagnostic medical sonographers and radiology technicians, as well as the education and training required for each profession. We will also discuss the career outlook and salary potential for both careers.

What is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and Radiology Technician?

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• A diagnostic medical sonographer, also known as an ultrasound technician, is a healthcare professional who uses specialized equipment to create images of the inside of the human body.
• These images, known as sonograms or ultrasounds, are used by doctors to diagnose and monitor medical conditions.
• Diagnostic medical sonographers work closely with patients and may specialize in a particular area of the body, such as the abdomen, heart, or vascular system.
• They also play a role in explaining the procedure to patients, positioning them correctly for the best images, and analyzing the images to ensure quality and accuracy.

Radiology Technician:

• A radiology technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is a healthcare professional who uses X-ray and other imaging equipment to create images of the human body.
• These images are used by doctors to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
• Radiology technicians work closely with patients and may specialize in a particular area of the body, such as bones, muscles, or organs.
• They are responsible for positioning patients correctly for imaging, operating the equipment, and ensuring the images are of high quality.

Difference between a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and Radiology Technician

While both diagnostic medical sonographers and radiology technicians are involved in medical imaging, there are some key differences between the two professions:

• Equipment Used: Diagnostic medical sonographers primarily use ultrasound machines to capture images, while radiology technicians use a variety of imaging equipment, including X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI machines.
• Types of Images: Diagnostic medical sonographers specialize in creating images using sound waves, which are particularly useful for imaging soft tissues and organs. Radiology technicians, on the other hand, primarily create images using X-rays, which are best suited for imaging bones and dense tissues.
• Areas of Specialization: Diagnostic medical sonographers often specialize in a particular area of the body, such as the abdomen, heart, or vascular system. Radiology technicians may also specialize in a particular area, such as bones or organs, but they have a broader range of imaging techniques at their disposal.
• Patient Interaction: Both diagnostic medical sonographers and radiology technicians work closely with patients, but diagnostic medical sonographers often spend more time with patients, as they must explain the procedure, position the patient correctly, and ensure their comfort throughout the imaging process.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer vs Radiology Technician: Job Description

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• Perform ultrasound examinations on patients using specialized equipment
• Explain procedures to patients and ensure their comfort during the imaging process
• Position patients correctly for the best images
• Analyze images to ensure quality and accuracy
• Collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to interpret and communicate results
• Maintain and clean equipment
• Keep detailed records of patient procedures and results

Radiology Technician:

• Perform X-ray and other imaging examinations on patients using specialized equipment
• Position patients correctly for imaging procedures
• Operate imaging equipment and adjust settings to obtain high-quality images
• Collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to interpret and communicate results
• Ensure patient safety during imaging procedures
• Maintain and clean equipment
• Keep detailed records of patient procedures and results

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer vs Radiology Technician: Education and Training

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• To become a diagnostic medical sonographer, one must complete a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree program in diagnostic medical sonography.
• These programs typically take 2 to 4 years to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
• Coursework may cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, patient care, medical ethics, and ultrasound physics.
• After completing their education, diagnostic medical sonographers may choose to pursue professional certification from organizations such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
• Certification requirements vary by state, but typically include passing an exam and completing a certain number of clinical hours.

Radiology Technician:

• To become a radiology technician, one must complete a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree program in radiologic technology.
• These programs typically take 2 to 4 years to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
• Coursework may cover topics such as anatomy, patient care, radiation protection, medical ethics, and image evaluation.
• After completing their education, radiology technicians must become licensed or certified in most states.
• Licensure or certification requirements vary by state, but typically include passing an exam and completing a certain number of clinical hours.
• Radiology technicians may also choose to pursue additional certifications in specialized areas, such as mammography or computed tomography (CT).

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer vs Radiology Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• This growth is attributed to the increasing use of diagnostic imaging and the aging population, which will require more imaging services.
• The median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers was $74,320 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Radiology Technician:

• According to the BLS, employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
• This growth is also attributed to the increasing use of diagnostic imaging and the aging population.
• The median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $63,710 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Both diagnostic medical sonography and radiologic technology offer rewarding career opportunities in the field of medical imaging. The choice between the two professions ultimately comes down to personal preferences and interests. Diagnostic medical sonographers specialize in using ultrasound technology to create images of soft tissues and organs, while radiology technicians use a variety of imaging techniques, including X-rays, to create images of bones and dense tissues. Both professions require postsecondary education and offer strong job prospects and competitive salaries.

Dreambound has strategically placed its educational programs in various locations, making it easy for aspiring individuals to access valuable opportunities. For a thorough insight into the dynamic realms of these two vocations, we encourage you to delve into more detailed information by visiting:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Vermont
• Radiology Technician in Vermont
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer classes near you
• Radiology Technician classes near you