Ultrasound Technician Schools in Maine (Become a Sonographer)

Taking into consideration the fact that the medical industry is experiencing tremendous growth, and sonography is progressing as a popular career choice as well, more and more young people decide to get involved in this career field.

This is because of the high salary, short education and training period, and the fact that job availability is expected to increase by 20% by 2026 in Maine, so we have made this article to make your research shorter and less troublesome, as you can find all you need to begin your career as an ultrasound technician.

The most important thing when each kind of career is in question is to gain proper education and training, and the possession of certain skills and qualities.

As a sonographer, you need to expect to work long hours on your feet, lift disabled patients, and work in dimly lit environments.

Most positions require you to work full-time hours, and you may need to work weekends, overnights, evenings, and overtime.

If you think that these obligations are not too troublesome for you,  you can get on the path to becoming an ultrasound technician in Maine by enrolling in the right college today.

Accredited Ultrasound Technician Schools in Maine

Accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing your sonography program, and we regret to say that there are not any CAAHEP accredited Sonography programs in Maine.

Those students who are eager to attend an accredited program can do that in a nearby state, or choose a related career within the field of Allied Health, such as medical imaging or surgical technology.

If you want to know how much it takes to finish the program, we would have to say that it depends on the level of education you want to reach, as most degree programs can be completed within two years, but you will earn an Associate’s Degree.

You can also go to school longer and receive a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree.

Ultrasound Tech Certification Requirements in Maine

It is true that currently no licensure or certification requirements for diagnostic medical sonographers are set in the state of Maine.

However, many states consider making the move toward required licensure, and many employers prefer or require certification from The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

Earning your diploma in ultrasound technology is the first step, but then, you can earn your certification through a governing body, such as The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography with the aim to improve your chances of getting a satisfying and fulfilling job.

The only way to earn ARDMS certification is by taking and passing their exam and you can take the exam at one of the two testing locations in Maine:

• 10 Ridgewood Dr, Bangor, ME 04401
• 201 Main St, Westbrook, ME 04092

The ARDMS testing covers a wide range of topics, including sonography principles, obstetrics and gynecology, breast sonography, fetal echocardiography, neurosonology, and abdomen.

Once you are ready to apply for an ARDMS examination, you should log in to MY ARDMS and choose Apply Online.

Then, you need to complete the online application form and submit payment.

The required supporting documentation must be submitted within 21 days of applying online by uploading it into your MY ARDMS account.

Documentation required with the application is:

• Copy of an official transcript from a two-year allied health education program with a state-specific number of credits.
• Copy of education program certificate, certification, or license.
• Letter from a supervising physician, ARDMS-Registered sonographer/technologist, or the educational program director indicating a minimum of 12 months of full-time clinical/ vascular experience.
• Signed and completed clinical verification (CV) form for each appropriate specialty area(s)
• Copy of non-expired government-issued photo identification (ID) with signature

Eligible students are those who have finished an accredited sonography program, but if you have attended a college that is not accredited through the CAAHEP, then you will need to fulfill certain requirements before taking the certification exam.

These requirements include the completion of a minimum of 60 semester hours, 12 months of work experience, and a clinical internship.

Another kind of respected certification is the Cardiovascular Credentialing International certificate, which will allow you to be employed as a non-invasive cardiovascular technologist for two years.

If you have attended a non-accredited ultrasound technology program, then you may need to complete 800 hours of clinical experience before becoming eligible for this examination.

You may earn certification in a specific subfield, such as breast sonography or vascular sonography, by taking a test issued by The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, which covers topics in sonography procedures, ultrasound physical principles, and patient care.

It is worth mentioning that your certificate has to be to renewed every two years by fulfilling 24 continuing education credits.

Ultrasound Techs Salary And Job Outlook In Maine

The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that around 210 ultrasound technicians are currently working in the state of Maine and it is expected that job openings for diagnostic medical sonographers may increase 17%.

Being that in Maine, the outlook is promising for those in the field of diagnostic medical sonography, it is highly suggested to start a path towards this career.

Plus, it is reported that the average salary of Maine sonographers is $89339.

Specializing in a certain sector of sonography can open up various employment opportunities in a variety of medical facilities, thus increasing your salary which can reach up to $103092 per year.

The salary you will earn depends on a number of factors, such as level of education and experience, geographic location, and type of employer.

The place where you find work can determine how much you will earn, as outpatient care centers tend to pay the most.

On the other hand, larger imaging centers and hospitals are the largest employers but they offer just the base salary.

As a graduate from an Associate’s Degree program, you can become an entry-level sonographer and earn the lowest salaries, while earning a Bachelor’s Degree may open you up to higher-paying job positions and better income.

However, you need to bear in mind that the location of a facility where you work can also affect your earning potential, which can be seen in the table below.

Annual Salary Range:

Regional Salary in Maine