Ultrasound Technician Schools in Pennsylvania - PA

Pennsylvania has an array of opportunities available to those seeking careers as ultrasound technicians, more formally known as diagnostic medical sonographers.  The state of Pennsylvania, as of May 2008 had 2,110 individuals employed in ultrasound technology, according the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  Of these 2,110 employed, 660 are in the metropolitan area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with 510 ultrasound techs, is a close second.   The Philadelphia metropolitan area offers a mean annual salary of $60,830 to its ultrasound techs, according to Pennsylvania Workforce Development.  This salary is well above the statewide salary average of $55,880 for ultrasound technicians/diagnostic medical sonographers.

Pennsylvania does not require state licensing for ultrasound technologists; therefore, the following information is regarding requirements for continuing competency established by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).  In order to maintain active status, a registrant must complete a minimum of 30 continuing medical education (CME) credits during each three-year period.  The number of hours required does not change regardless of the number of specialty certifications held.  There are several ways to obtain CME credits.  The ARDMS website has links to organizations and companies that provide resources for CME credits. The ARDMS suggests keeping records regarding CME credits for 4 years.  The reason for this recommendation is due to the annual audit conducted by the ARDMS.  The audit verifies compliance with proper CME credit reporting. 

Through either campus based or online programs, would-be sonographers in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Allentown and Erie, Pennsylvania can prepare for careers at some of the best hospitals and healthcare facilities in the country including the Albert Einstein Medical Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Saint Luke's Hospitals and Temple University Hospital.