How To Become An Ultrasound Technician In Ontario (2024)

The healthcare industry is labor-intensive and ever-evolving. The need for the right personnel in the various fields is also not left behind, and every medical-based organization requires the services of an ultrasound technician. A career in ultrasound or sonography technology is tedious, challenging, and highly rewarding.

To become a licensed ultrasound technician eligible to work in Ontario, you will be required to undergo a one-year clinical and vascular experience at a licensed hospital or medical facility. The clinical experience is necessary to help you fulfill the requirements to ace the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers(ARDMS) examination.

Have you ever seen a picturesque image of what goes on inside of the human body on a computer screen? Ultrasound technicians have the expertise and “superpower” to make it possible. The diagnostic images they produce and interpret are vital in diagnosing and treating ailments and diseases.

How To Become An Ultrasound Technician In Ontario?

The first step you need to prepare for a career in ultrasound technology is to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent.

After which, you will need to attend a technical school or university-sanctioned by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs(CAAHEP) to complete a three or four-year program in diagnostic medical technology and sonography.

You can also pursue a two or three years program in a related allied medical field with a year of post-diploma program in diagnostic medical technology and sonography.

There is an option to pursue a two-year associate degree program in sonography and study under an accredited ultrasound instructor for one year to obtain a practicing licence.

The classes to get certified typically include cardiovascular, chest, and abdominal training and hands-on clinical experience. Medical radiation courses, diagnostic medical sonography and testing, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) programs are some of the approved clinical studies necessary to prepare aspiring ultrasound technicians to operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment,

Graduates who get certified will find employment in a variety of medical institutions and departments, including (but not limited to):

● Diagnostic centres

● Emergency and operating rooms

● Clinics

● Hospitals

● Private medical practices

● Education and research institutions

● Specialised treatment centres

● Veterinary institutions

A certificate is a helpful addition to your curriculum vitae, so you can consider getting one. Plus, it’s also a great way to set yourself apart from others. Some of the certification courses you can opt for include:

● Registered Diagnostic Medical Technician

● Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Technician

● Registered Vascular Technician

If you graduated with a health-related degree, you do not necessarily have to apply to study ultrasound technology in a college; your current employer may provide you with on-the-job training.

Also, you can contact the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers(ARDMS) via their website to obtain a list of the available ultrasound instructors and institutes near you.

What Are The Duties Of An Ultrasound Technician?

As an ultrasound technician, you will be in charge of patients’ diagnostic results, and records, as well as the following:

● You will be operating various diagnostic medical equipment and interpreting your findings in real-time during the examination procedures, which will ensure that every piece of data is captured.

● You will be obtaining patient history and health status, which should include allergies, drug interactions, and any ongoing drug history.

● You will position patients and consult with medical professionals to independently assess any need to modify the planned medical procedure.

● You will relay relevant and concise information about what to expect during the procedure to patients and provide answers to questions.

● You will be keeping medical records identifying and documenting unexpected scan results that may indicate the need for further examination and immediate medical attention.

● You will be sorting and archiving images.

● You will be completing ultrasound technician worksheets that explain test findings to the medical personnel in charge.

● Maintaining equipment, ordering the required medical supplies, and adhering to strict rules will ensure the patient is exposed to minimal high-frequency sound waves during testing procedures.

Where Can I Study Ultrasound Technology In Ontario?

Some accredited institutes where you can earn a degree in medical ultrasound technology are;

● St. Clair College Centre for Applied Health Sciences offers a 2.5-year course for an advanced diploma in diagnostic medical ultrasound.

● Canadian National Institute of Health – They have programs that provide clinical and theoretical studies which provide aspiring sonographers a comprehensive and career-focused educational experience.

● Algonquin College Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.

● College of Medical Radiation and Imaging Technologists of Ontario

How Much Can I Make Annually As An Ultrasound Technician?

Just like most career paths, ultrasound technicians in Ontario are paid according to their expertise and experience levels, and you should expect to earn more as you continue to advance in your career.

Salaries can range from a minimum of 51,500 CAD per year to a maximum of 151,000 CAD per year.

Technicians who work in private practises generally make less than their counterparts who work in larger hospitals and medical centres.

In Ontario, An Ultrasound Technologist with less than two years of experience is expected to make about 58,400 CAD a year.

Someone with an experience level of up to five years is expected to earn 78,400 CAD a year.

If you have a Bachelor’s Degree from a reputable institution, you can earn up to 82,400 CAD per year, while a Master’s Degree will get you a salary of 114,000 CAD per year.

Medical institutions are always in need of a means of identifying ailments, and conditions through the use of diagnostic equipment, so your work as an ultrasound technologist will be monetarily rewarding and worthwhile.

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Expected Workload For Ultrasound Technicians

Some of the essential qualities that have been instilled in you while earning a certificate will become useful as you venture into the world of ultrasound practice. As an ultrasound technician, you need to be understanding, willing to work for long hours and have a sense of empathy.

Most of the positions available to you will require most of your free time, on-call days, and holidays. The workload involves a constant fluctuation in your work-life balance, which will improve after a few years of work experience.