As the practice of medicine changes, so does the need for highly trained professionals. The ultrasound technicians trained when ultrasound technology was first developed were at the forefront of an incredibly important profession. The field of sonography has changed dramatically since it was first founded, with the expansion into several incredible areas of diagnostic medicine. One of the most in demand types of ultrasound professional is the registered vascular technologist (or registered vascular specialist).
What is a Vascular Ultrasound Technologist?
Vascular ultrasound is a specialized area of sonography that focuses on the function of the body’s arteries and veins. A machine known as a doppler ultrasound is used to measure the way blood flows through the blood vessels. These tests are usually done on a patient’s neck, abdomen, arms, and legs.
A vascular technologist, either a RVT or RVS depending on the certification organization used, is an individual who specializes in this type of ultrasound testing. He has received extra training regarding cardiovascular conditions and is trained to use the doppler to help monitor blood flow, to located plaque or blockages, to look for blood clots, to test a person for angioplasty eligibility and much more. The ultrasounds are usually given to a cardiologist who can then compare the results with other cardiovascular tests and the patient’s medical history to determine what action to take next.
Why are Vascular Ultrasound Professionals in Such High Demand?
Vascular ultrasound professionals are in higher demand than ever before. Doctors did not in the past have access to vascular ultrasound technology for use in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the heart or flow of blood through the body. There are a number of older, experienced ultrasound technicians working in the field but many never had the opportunity to train in vascular technology.
Now that this type of testing is in higher demand, hospitals and cardiologists offices are beginning to look for specially trained individuals to add to their staff instead of sending patients out to third party testing centers. By having immediate access to an RVT or RVS, specialists are able to diagnose serious medical conditions at a faster rate, treating patients who may have otherwise had serious cardiovascular episodes if left untreated.
How Do I become a Vascular Ultrasound Specialist?
Start by searching for a school that offers diagnostic medical sonography programs and that is already registered through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Professionals (CAAHEP).
If you already have a certification in ultrasound technology you may simply have to take some extra classes to prepare yourself for the RVT or RVS examination. If you have no ultrasound history at all, you may have to start from the beginning, taking both the SPI (Sonography Prinicipals and Instrumentation) examination as well as the VT (Vascular Technology) examination. If you are already an ultrasound technician with another type of certification, you will simply have to take the VT examination.
The Field of Ultrasound Technology is Growing
Today’s new ultrasound technologists have a distinct advantage over previous generations. They are more prepared for working with newer ultrasound machines and computers and have a thirst for knowledge and advancement. Becoming an RVT or RVS is a great way to expand your career in ultrasound technology, giving you an added specialty and increasing your demand as a professional.
Career growth in the field of ultrasound technology, especially for vascular technologists, is favorable. The field will grow because of the expanding need for medical professionals. Some job opportunities will be created because of other ultrasound technicians retiring and because others will simply decide to advance or leave the field completely.
No matter what your goals, having more than one specialty is important to the success of an ultrasound technologist. Cross training to add vascular technology to your list of credentials will make you an asset to your profession and will prove your ongoing dedication to the advancement of medicine and patient care.
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Blog maintained by registered sonographer - SPI Ross Taylor, MA, RVT, RDMS, RT
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