According to the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, the median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers, including those working in academic hospitals, is around $76,000. However, salaries can range from approximately $65,000 to over $100,000 depending on factors such as location, experience, and specific job duties. In academic hospitals, ultrasound technicians may earn a slightly higher average salary due to the complex nature of the work and the need for advanced technical skills.
For example, a survey by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography found that sonographers working in academic settings had a median annual salary of $83,000, with salaries ranging from $68,000 to $114,000. Another study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology found that ultrasound technicians working in academic hospitals had an average salary of $92,000, with salaries ranging from $75,000 to $123,000.
It's worth noting that these figures are based on national averages and can vary depending on the specific institution, department, or location. Additionally, salaries may be influenced by factors such as the type of ultrasound technology used, the level of patient interaction, and the need for specialized skills such as cardiology or obstetrics.
In terms of job duties and responsibilities, academic hospitals typically require sonographers to work closely with radiologists, other healthcare professionals, and medical students to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. This can lead to a higher demand for ultrasound technicians who are not only skilled in technical procedures but also able to communicate complex information effectively.
Overall, the salary ranges for ultrasound techs working in academic hospitals reflect the high level of expertise and responsibility required for these professionals.