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To help doctors diagnose patients suffering from cardiac (heart) and vascular (blood vessel) ailments, an ECG/EKG Technician -- known as a Cardiovascular Technologist or Technician in the allied healthcare industry -- performs electrocardiograms (EKG or ECG). EKGs use painless electrodes to measure the heart's electrical activity: the heart rate and related functions. A cardiovascular technologist has more responsibility than a cardiovascular technician, as a result of receiving advanced education and training.

EKG Technologist
EKG technologists usually complete two-year college programs, but four-year programs are also available. EKG technologists may obtain certification in a number of specialties.

EKG Technician
EKG technicians can be trained on the job, but many employers prefer to hire and train technicians who have already worked in a health care setting. Earning a diploma in EKG/ECG technology is likely to increase your EKG technician job opportunities and pay.

With advanced training, an EKG technician may also run longer-term EKG tests via a portable EKG monitor sent home with the patient, or stress tests, which monitor patients' hearts while they exercise on a treadmill.

Based on 2004 data, as an ECG/EKG technician you can expect to earn at least between $21,790 and up to more than $59,000 per year, with a median earning potential of $38,690 yearly.

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