According to Job Bank Canada, Cardiac Sonographers and Cardiovascular specialists are in demand and employment growth will lead to several new positions. n fact, cardiac sonographer salary in Canada is very high and it’s the best career choice in 2024. Whether you’re looking to get started in allied healthcare or establishing yourself in Canada as an international medical graduate, BizTech college cardiac program prepares you for work in a variety of health care settings.
Click here if you’re interested in career in cardiac healthcare or would like to specialize and expand your horizons for better career opportunities.
Cardiovascular Career Outlook in Canada
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Canada, about 158,700 (6.1 per 1,000) Canadian adults aged 20 years and older received a new diagnosis of ischemic heart disease. Specifically, about 63,200 (2.3 per 1,000) adults had a first heart attack.
Approximately 92,900 (5.2 per 1,000) Canadian adults aged 40 years and older received a new heart failure diagnosis. Professionals working in this field contribute to the well-being of other people by using specialized medical equipment.
Canada’s aging population and increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases like heart disease, stroke, and vascular conditions are driving the demand for skilled cardiovascular professionals. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Canada, accounting for nearly 30% of all deaths.
This growing need is reflected in job market trends. For example, Job Bank Canada projects that employment for cardiovascular technologists will grow by 10% between 2022 and 2031, with over 29,600 new job openings expected. Similarly, cardiac surgeons are in high demand, with employment growth projected at 5% over the same period. And, due to the increase in demand, cardiac sonographer salary is going to take a BOOM.
What are the Jobs of the Cardiovascular System?
The cardiovascular field encompasses a wide range of specializations, each offering unique opportunities to contribute to patient care. Here are some of the most popular career paths:
Cardiovascular Technologist: Perform diagnostic tests like echocardiograms and electrocardiograms to help diagnose and monitor cardiovascular conditions.
Cardiac Surgeon: Perform complex surgeries on the heart and blood vessels to treat conditions like coronary artery disease and valve problems.
Cardiologist: Diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases using medication, interventional procedures, and lifestyle modifications.
Cardiac Nurse: Provide specialized care to patients with cardiovascular conditions before, during, and after surgery or other procedures.
Vascular Surgeon: Focus on diagnosing and treating diseases of the blood vessels, including peripheral artery disease and aneurysms.
What Are the Different Types of Cardiovascular Courses?
- Technology- Cardiovascular technologist programs teach students basic science, operation of specialized cardiovascular equipment, patient care, diagnostic techniques and rehabilitation processes.
- Sonography- This Course teaches students how to use sonography machines (ultrasounds) and how to identify heart diseases, defects and other cardiovascular-related conditions.
What Does a Cardiac Sonographer Do?
Cardiac sonographers work with doctors to assess a patient’s heart condition through the detailed images taken during an echocardiogram.
Common responsibilities and duties of a cardiac sonographer include:
- Performing echocardiogram tests to obtain important data about patients
- Looking at blood flow, valve function, and chamber size to determine the overall condition of the heart
- Assisting physicians in the diagnosis of patients with heart conditions
- Accurately recording patient data and test results
- Helping with administrative duties such as scheduling appointments or cleaning equipment
What Does A Cardiovascular Technologist Do?
Depending on the specific role, the job of non-invasive cardiology technologist can include the use of electronic equipment.
What 4 types of EKG machines are there?
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) machines
- Holter monitoring devices
- Pacemakers
- Exercise tolerance testing
- Ultrasound/Sonography Machines
They perform advanced procedures and require high training as it involves inserting medical instruments and devices into the patients’ body. Cardiovascular catheterization allows cardiac surgeons to administer critical diagnostic tests or treatments without more radical surgery.
What Are the Requirements for Cardiovascular Programs?
The program requirements vary widely. Requirements could include an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with specific grade 12 English, math and science courses.
Graduate programs may require a previous bachelor’s degree, registration as a health professional in your area of specialization and/or specific work experience hours. International medical graduates need to have equivalency by Medical Council of Canada to secure a seat directly in the program.
Other requirements may include First Aid and CPR certification, or up-to-date immunizations. Be sure to check program requirements carefully before applying.
How to Get Certified?
As most health care professions in Canada are regulated, graduates need to get certified in the field by specific regulatory bodies:
- To become a certified cardiovascular technologist in Canada, you need to be certified by the Canadian Society of Cardiology Technologists.
- To become a certified cardiac sonographer, graduates need to be certified as Canadian Registered Cardiac Sonographer (CRCS) by Sonography Canada.
What Skills do you Need for Cardiovascular?
A career in cardiology health, whether in healthcare, research, or related fields, requires a range of skills. Here are some key skills that individuals in the cardiovascular field may need:
Medical Knowledge
Understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology.
Knowledge of cardiac diseases, risk factors, and treatments.
Familiarity with medical terminology related to the cardiovascular system.
Clinical Skills
Ability to perform cardiac assessments and examinations.
Proficiency in interpreting diagnostic tests such as ECGs, echocardiograms, and stress tests.
Competence in patient monitoring and vital sign assessment.
Communication Skills
Effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
Clear documentation of patient information and treatment plans.
Ability to explain complex medical concepts to individuals with varying levels of health literacy.
Critical Thinking
Analytical skills to interpret complex medical data.
Ability to make informed decisions in time-sensitive situations.
Problem-solving skills for addressing patient care challenges.
Attention to Detail
Precision in recording and analyzing patient information.
Diligence in following protocols and procedures.
Accurate administration of medications and treatments.
Adaptability
Flexibility to work in various healthcare settings (hospital, clinic, etc.).
Readiness to adapt to new technologies and advancements in cardiovascular medicine.
Continuing Education
Commitment to staying updated on the latest research and developments in cardiology medicine.
Willingness to pursue additional certifications or advanced degrees as needed.
These skills can be developed through education, training, and hands-on experience in cardiovascular-related roles. A combination of these skills is crucial for providing quality cardiovascular care and contributing to advancements in the field.
How Much Does a Cardiovascular Technologist Make in Canada?
The average wage for cardiology technologists in Canada is $27.63/hour. This wage varies based on where you are working. The average salary of professionals working in Ontario is $25/hour, Alberta is $35.83/hour and in British Columbia is $33.64/hour.
How Much Does a Cardiac Sonographer Make in Canada?
The average diagnostic cardiac sonographer salary in Canada is $71,497 per year or $36.67 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $71,497 per year while most experienced workers make up to $74,939 per year.
How To Apply for Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer Program?
BizTech College in Canada offers a Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program which is a unique program that offers learning in echocardiography and vascular modalities. Graduates are eligible to write exams for two credentials – Cardiac Sonographer and Vascular Sonographer by Sonography Canada.
Apart from didactic and clinical knowledge, the program includes clinical placements, which help them gain much-needed practical exposure in a real-life clinical setting. The program is designed to prepare students for the credentials mentioned above. Do you see yourself working in this rewarding career? Contact admissions to know about the program, career opportunities and more.