Exploring a career in medical imaging? Choosing between becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and a Radiology Technician can be challenging, but both roles offer rewarding opportunities in healthcare. This guide compares responsibilities, salary, training, and career outlook to help you decide which path suits your goals.

Key Points:

• Sonographers use ultrasound technology to create real-time images, specializing in areas like cardiac, vascular, and obstetric sonography. On the other hand, Radiology Technicians operate X-ray, CT, and MRI machines, following strict radiation safety protocols.
• Sonographers earn an average salary of $84,470 (BLS 2023) annually, while Radiology Technicians earn $73,410 (BLS 2023).
• Training varies: Sonographers complete 2-4 year CAAHEP-accredited programs; Radiology Technicians complete 2-year JRCERT-accredited programs.

What is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and Radiology Technician?

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: A diagnostic medical sonographer uses ultrasound equipment to capture images of internal organs and tissues for diagnostic purposes. They specialize in using sound waves to create detailed images that assist in diagnosing and monitoring medical conditions. Sonographers play a critical role in patient care by ensuring the accuracy of images and working closely with healthcare professionals to interpret the results.

• Radiology Technician: A radiology technician operates imaging equipment such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan machines to capture detailed images of bones and tissues. Radiology technicians have expertise in various imaging technologies and collaborate with radiologists and physicians to ensure that images are captured accurately and safely.

Difference Between a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and a Radiology Technician

Although both sonographers and radiology technicians work in medical imaging, there are distinct differences in their areas of expertise and the technologies they use:

• Scope of Practice: Diagnostic medical sonographers specialize in using ultrasound to capture images of soft tissues and organs, whereas radiology technicians use a variety of imaging methods, including X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, to capture images of bones, tissues, and organs.

• Training and Specialization: Sonographers undergo more specialized training, often requiring a 2-year associate's degree or more, while radiology technicians can often complete their education through a shorter, 1-year certificate program. Radiology technicians can also specialize in areas such as mammography or computed tomography (CT).

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
• Collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to interpret and communicate 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
• Ensure patient safety during imaging procedures

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.
• 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.
• 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).

Career Outlook and Salary

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The average diagnostic medical sonographer salary was $80,850 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

Radiology Technician:

• According to the BLS, employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
• The average radiologic technologist salary was $76,020 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it harder to become a diagnostic medical sonographer or a radiology technician?

Becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer generally requires more specialized and longer training, making it more intensive than the typical path to becoming a radiology technician. The focus of sonography programs on mastering ultrasound technology can be more challenging than the broader imaging education that radiology technicians receive.

How much does it cost to become a diagnostic medical sonographer or radiology technician?

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Costs for sonography programs vary widely. A 2-year associate’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography typically ranges from $6,000 to $40,000 for the full program, depending on the school and whether it’s public or private. Certification and exam fees may add additional costs.

• Radiology Technician: The cost of radiology technician programs also varies, with certificate programs costing between $5,000 and $25,000. Associate's degree programs can cost between $6,000 and $40,000, depending on the institution and program length.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer or a Radiology Technician depends on your interests and career goals. If you’re drawn to working with ultrasound technology and want a more specialized role, diagnostic medical sonography may be the path for you. If you prefer versatility and working with a broader range of imaging technologies, radiology technology could be the better option.

Both careers offer stability, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient care. Now is the time to start your journey in healthcare—explore your options and find the right fit for your future!

Get Started with Dreambound Today

Dreambound offers flexible training programs for both careers, conveniently located across various states. Take the first step toward your new career in healthcare:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer classes near you