Program Description
Vascular Technology is an allied health profession that focuses on diagnosing vascular disease. The vascular technologist uses sonography, pressure-measuring devices and plethysmography to document venous and arterial disease. The exams are interpreted by vascular surgeons and neurologists. The term "noninvasive" is used because the methods do not involve a surgical procedure. The vascular technologist is required to have in-depth knowledge of vascular anatomy, disease and treatment. The information he or she provides assists the vascular surgeon and neurologist in identifying and quantifying the extent of vascular disease. The exams are performed in a vascular lab, at a patient's bedside or in an operating room. The vascular technologist can examine the veins and arteries of extremities and cranial and abdominal vessels. These vessels may have a buildup of chronic arteriosclerosis or a sudden blockage caused by trauma or embolism. The scope of exams performed by vascular technologists is varied due to the many vessels and situations they are qualified to examine. Upon completion of the Vascular Technology program students may take the national registry exam (ARDMS) after an additional year of clinical work experience.
Earnings
 Median annual earnings of cardiovascular technologists and technicians were $36,430 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $26,730 and $46,570. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,920, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $56,080. Median annual earnings of cardiovascular technologists and technicians in 2002 were $36,420 in offices of physicians and $35,800 in general medical and surgical hospitals.
Job Outlook
Employment of Vascular Technologists and technicians is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2012. Employment of vascular technologists and echocardiographers will grow as advances in vascular technology and sonography reduce the need for more costly and invasive procedures. However, fewer EKG technicians will be needed, as hospitals train nursing aides and others to perform basic EKG procedures. Individuals trained in Holter monitoring and stress testing are expected to have more favorable job prospects than are those who can perform only a basic EKG.
|
