A vascular technologist is a clinical healthcare worker who performs noninvasive assessments of a patient’s peripheral circulatory system’s arteries and veins. Due to the primary type of technology they use to perform their duties — ultrasound — these healthcare workers are sometimes referred to as vascular sonographers. A vascular technologist uses ultrasound and Doppler technology to assess blood flow through veins and arteries to look for clots in the extremities, internal organ perfusion, and carotid artery blockages, among other things. He may take photographs, film, or audio recordings of the test results for the attending physician to review and diagnose. A vascular technologist can also be cross-trained as a cardiovascular technologist, either partially or fully.
Hospitals employ nearly 60 percent of medical sonographers for inpatient care and evaluation. Because vascular technology is typically very portable, most vascular technologist evaluations are performed at the patient’s bedside. As a result, it is especially beneficial for a vascular technologist to be able to assist a patient in relaxing during the examination. The technologist’s explanation of why the test is needed, how it works, and that it is noninvasive usually puts the patient at ease.
A vascular technologist must have at least an associate’s degree in the field, and most US states also require certification through the state’s Board of Healthcare Professions. A four-year bachelor’s degree in the field is offered by a few institutions, most of which are affiliated with university medical schools. Human anatomy and physiology, as well as the fundamentals of the technology on which the specialty is based, are required for both degrees. A vascular technologist is certified after completing an approved program and passing tests administered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers® (ARDMS®). A minimum number of continuing education (CE) credits may be required to maintain continued certification, depending on the state or country’s requirements.
The outlook for a career in vascular technology appears to be promising. According to some sources, the United States will experience a 20 percent increase in job growth over the next decade. Part of this growth is due to the increasing sophistication of vascular technology, as well as its preference over radiographic evaluation, which exposes patients to potentially harmful radiation. The overall aging of the population, as well as their anticipated healthcare needs, is another reason for career growth in this field.