Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Outlook

Employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 26% from 2014 to 2024, significantly faster than the forecasted 7% average growth for all occupations. Demographic and technological trends underlie the strong Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Outlook. As ultrasound imaging technology evolves, it will be used by medical facilities as a substitute for procedures that are costly, invasive, or expose patients to radiation. The use of sonography will continue to increase as patients, when given the option, choose to avoid exposure to radiation or undergo invasive procedures. Although hospitals remain the main employer of diagnostic medical sonographers, employment is expected to grow more rapidly in physicians' offices and in medical and diagnostic laboratories. Employment in these healthcare settings is expected to increase because of the shift toward outpatient care whenever possible. Outpatient care is encouraged by third-party payers as a cost-saving measure and is made possible by technological advances, such as less expensive ultrasound equipment, which allow for more procedures to be done outside of hospitals.

The aging population provides the demographic boost to the Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Outlook. As the large baby-boom population ages and remains active later in life, the need to diagnose medical conditions, such as blood clots and tumors, with imaging technology should increase. Diagnostic medical sonographers will be needed to use and maintain the imaging equipment

Sonographers who are certified in more than one specialty are expected to have better job opportunities.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor