Are you thinking about a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS)? There are many Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) that come to mind when making such a decision.
In Canada, there are an estimated 7,000 medical sonographers. The scope of their work is expected to grow in the next decade as new technologies are developed. Medical sonographers are expected to play a larger role in the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions such as cancer.
What does a career in diagnostic medical sonography look like in 2025? In this BizTalk, we will outline some of the most common questions asked by the aspirants and provide answers to help you make an informed choice.
What is Diagnostic Medical Sonography?
Diagnostic medical sonography or DMS is a medical specialty that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs and tissues inside the body. These images can be used to diagnose medical conditions and diseases.
Job Outlook for DMS Professionals in Canada
If you are planning a career in diagnostic medical sonography, this is the best time to do so. The job outlook for DMS professionals in Canada is very good. According to recent statistics, the number of jobs in this field is expected to grow by 3.3% from 2023-2028.
Qualifications for a Career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Graduate certificate programs in sonography are available from a few schools, but most schools provide education for general diagnostic medical sonography, which is usually a graduate certificate program.
A few schools specialize only in cardiac and or vascular sonography, both leading to graduate degrees. Students who wish to pursue specialization should consider pursuing a degree from a school that specializes in that area.
It is important to note that this is not the only requirement that someone must meet to become a diagnostic medical sonographer. Many people also require certification from the Canadian Association of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or CMRITO.
Duration of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Education
Many people in Canada are required to have a diploma or degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program before they can work as a sonographer, which takes around 2 years.
Types of Diagnostic Sonographers in Canada
In Canada, 3 types of diagnostic sonographers work in hospitals and clinics. These are the
- Canadian Registered Generalist Sonographer (CRGS)
- Canadian Registered Cardiac Sonographer (CRCS)
- Canadian Registered Vascular Sonographer.
What are Some Areas of Specialization in Sonography?
Sonography offers various areas of specialization, allowing professionals to focus on specific medical disciplines. Some common areas of specialization in sonography include:
Obstetric and Gynecologic Sonography (OB/GYN)
Specializing in imaging the female reproductive system, including monitoring pregnancies and assessing gynecological conditions.
Abdominal Sonography
Concentrating on imaging abdominal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen, to identify abnormalities or diseases.
Cardiac Sonography
Focusing on the heart and blood vessels, cardiac sonographers assess cardiovascular conditions and aid in diagnosing heart-related issues.
Vascular Sonography
Specializing in imaging blood vessels to identify issues like blood clots, venous disorders, or arterial blockages.
Neuro sonography
Concentrating on imaging the brain and nervous system, often used in the diagnosis of conditions like strokes, tumors, or neurological disorders.
Breast Sonography
Specializing in imaging breast tissues to detect and evaluate breast abnormalities, aiding in the diagnosis of breast cancer.
Musculoskeletal Sonography
Focusing on imaging muscles, joints, and ligaments to diagnose musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.
Pediatric Sonography
Concentrating on imaging infants and children, addressing the unique considerations and challenges in pediatric ultrasound examinations.
Emergency Medicine and Point-of-Care Ultrasound
Providing rapid assessments in emergency situations, aiding in the quick diagnosis and treatment of critical conditions.
Ophthalmic Sonography
Specializing in imaging the eyes and assessing ocular conditions, supporting ophthalmologists in their diagnoses.
Each specialization requires specific knowledge and skills, and sonographers may choose to focus on a particular area based on their interests and career goals.
Highest-Paid Career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
According to the latest report from the Canadian Association of Radiologists, neuro sonography will be the highest-paid type of sonography in Canada. This is due to its growing popularity as a diagnostic tool for conditions such as stroke, brain tumors, and epilepsy. Neuro sonography is already the most commonly performed type of career in diagnostic medical sonography in Canada.
The higher-paying specialties include:
- Neuro (Brain) Sonography: $101,095
- Pediatric Cardiac Sonography: $78,928
- Cardiac Sonography: $74,100
- Vascular Sonography: $78,928
- Ob/Gyn Sonography: $71,047
How Much Does Diagnostic Sonography Pay in Canada?
The average pay rate for diagnostic medical sonography in Canada is $79,867.
What is a Typical Day in the Life of a Sonographer?
A typical day in the life of a sonographer involves using specialized equipment to perform ultrasound scans on patients. They start by reviewing patient histories and discussing procedures. During scans, sonographers interact with patients, positioning them for optimal imaging. They analyze and interpret images, looking for abnormalities or potential issues.
Communication with healthcare professionals may be necessary for immediate feedback. Documentation of findings and maintaining equipment are essential tasks. Thus, when pursuing a career in diagnostic medical sonography, you have to spend a day performing such tasks for seamless patient care.
Comparing Difficulty: Sonography vs. Nursing
There is no easy answer when it comes to which is harder, sonography or nursing in Canada. Both professions have their own unique set of challenges and rewards.
Some people may say that a career in diagnostic medical sonography is harder because you have to be more careful not to damage the patient’s image, while others may say that nursing is harder because there are more complicated and challenging cases to deal with daily. Ultimately, it depends on the individual and their personal preferences.
However, nursing in Canada has long been considered one of the hardest jobs in the world. This is due to the high level of competition and intense scrutiny that nurses are subjected to. One area where nursing is significantly harder than sonography is that nurses must be able to read and understand complex medical charts while sonographers only need to read basic anatomical structures.
Additionally, nurses must be able to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of patients, whereas sonographers only work with specific medical conditions.
Also Read: How Do I Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Canada?
Which is the Best Place to Study Sonography?
The best place to study sonography in Canada is undoubtedly BizTech College. Here, students can pursue either a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Both of these programs are extremely well-rounded and provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the field of sonography.
Additionally, the faculty at BizTech College are truly dedicated to their students’ success. They work tirelessly to ensure that each student has the opportunity to learn and grow in their field.
Talk to our academic advisors to know what the admission requirements are for a career in the diagnostic medical sonography program, how to finance your education, and what your career opportunities are.