Diagnostic Medical Sonography News November 2019 | Page 2

Diagnostic Medical Sonography:
An Exceptional Second Career Option
“Always be ready for change.” Those are the words a wise friend once gave me. Let’s face
it, change is inevitable because life is dynamic! This fact, whether welcomed or not, is
vividly reflected in the trends of the U.S. labor force. According to career change statistics,
the average individual will change careers five to seven times during their working lives.
Regardless of what season of life, making a career choice can be a daunting decision. There
are endless options of educational programs that allow for the traditional tract of pursuing
a degree and there are accelerated, hands-on programs that prepare one for a speedier
entry into the work force. Fortunately, the Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program at
Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) offers students both advantages. Let’s take a closer look
at what’s making the growing healthcare field of Diagnostic Medical Sonography an attractive
option for a second career.
There are many reasons for making a career change. One of these reasons is driven by a
person’s need to feel fulfilled in their work. Much of society no longer views work as simply
a “means to pay the bills”. Using one’s knowledge, skills, and talents to contribute to society
makes each day’s work meaningful. Mark Twain once said, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and
you will never have to work a day in your life.” Diagnostic medical sonographers experience
this fulfillment every day. Their connection with patients in clinical and emergency settings
brings satisfaction knowing they are providing critical information that will positively affect
their care.
For some people the monotony of their profession can be the motivation for pursuing a
new career. The desire for new challenges in life can become the spark that lights the fire
of change. Diagnostic medical sonographers play a critical role in healthcare. They assist
physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This alone provides an abundance of
challenges to a person’s intellect. Every day offers opportunities to encounter new situations
that may broaden their knowledge and add to their experiences as a healthcare professional.
Sonographers can specialize in many different areas of imagery. These concentrations include
abdominal, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiovascular, and vascular imagery as well as others.
There are different leveled DMS programs that offer a student a certificate, two-year or
four-year degrees. The training is rigorous and requires a great deal of time working in a
clinical setting. Once completed, the student must pass a licensing exam in order to qualify
for employment. If hard work, self-discipline, and dedication inspire a person to a new career,
DMS is worth the effort.
A third incentive to pursue a career in DMS is the salary. In many states, diagnostic medical
sonographers’ salaries are comparable to those of registered nurses. Also, the outlook for
future jobs as a sonographer looks bright. In the last decade the need for sonographers has
steadily increased. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the trends for employment
for diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 14% by 2028. Job security is an
important factor when evaluating career options. The time, effort, and money invested in
gaining new skills is extremely valuable.
Like all professionals, possessing certain qualities is beneficial to successfully working as a
diagnostic medical sonographer. Some of these qualities include eye-hand coordination,
attention to detail, technical skills, physical stamina, verbal communication skills, writing skills
and above all else, compassion for others. These characteristics along with good work ethic,
integrity and professionalism, add up to an excellent beginning to a career as a diagnostic
medical sonographer.
If you’re someone who’s looking for a new career in a meaningful, challenging and rewarding
field, DMS may be just the right fit. Eastern Florida State College has a competitive program
that will prepare you for employment in a healthcare facility. Visit the DMS page on the EFSC
website. www.easternflorida.edu
Diagnostic
Medical
Sonography
Teresa
Program Intern