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Profession: Medical Technologies

Cardiovascular Technologist: Cardiovascular Technologists assist physicians in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel ailments. In addition to performing tests, cardiovascular technologists prepare patients for the test by cleaning, shaving areas of the skin, and administering anesthesia. During procedures, they also monitor patients’ blood pressure and heart rate.

Cardiovascular technologists may specialize in: invasive cardiology, echocardiography, vascular technology, and electrophysiology.

Salary Range: $29,900 - $55,670

Salary Notes: Median salary in Vermont is $48,720. However, wages range from $23,270 to about $67,410.

Where you can study:
Southern Maine Community College, South Portland, ME

Where you might work:
Ambulatory Surgery Centers - Cardiac Rehabilitation Centers - Hospitals - Physician Offices -

Job Outlook: Employment of cardiovascular technologists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2016. Growth will occur as the population ages because older people have a higher incidence of heart problems.

Education, Licensing and Certification: Cardiovascular technologists normally complete a two-year junior or community college program. One year is dedicated to core courses followed by a year of specialization instruction. Graduates of one of the 35 accredited programs are eligible to earn certification through Cardiovascular Credentialing International or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers depending on specialty.

Professional Organizations:
Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals 804-632-0078 www.acp-online.org