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Ultrasound training for Physiotherapists and related clinical groups

Guidelines

We are drawing up a training pathway for physiotherapists and related clinical groups. These are still in the discussion phase and a preliminary draft is now being circulated ot interested parties.  If you involved in teaching ultrasound and have not been sent a draft please e’mail John Leddy at physio_imaging@yahoo.com 

Structure

The structure we are proposing for physiotherapy applications is 3 tiered, Preliminary, where physiotherapists are safe to scan after completing an appropriate one or two day introductory course: Basic where appropriate images can be reliably acquired and Advanced which corresponds to accurate reproducible acquisition and interpretation of ultrasound images in complex clinical conditions.

Scope of practice

All the applications covered by this structure involve physiotherapists using ultrasound as part of the assessment process, much as we might use a stethoscope. Use of ultrasound imaging as a stand alone diagnostic tool, particularly where management decisions that may lead to significant adverse consequences, are made largely on the basis of ultrasound findings (e.g. listing for rotator cuff surgery based on ultrasound findings) is considered an extended scope application.


Extended scope

Extended scope diagnostic applications be covered, however these guidelines are likely to be compatable with The Royal College of Radiology Guidelines,
and CASE recognised courses available through several universities

Log books, mentoring and supervision

Under the proposed structure those wishing to be accredited to basic level will need to have begun to maintain a log book of scans, with basic competencies assessed during followup courses or in the workplace by experienced practitioners. Advanced and extended scope practitioners will also require mentoring and some direct supervision and assessment to achieve accreditation.