Scope of Practice of Sonographers Across the United States: A Survey Study

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the current scope of practice of sonographers in the United States and ascertain if sonographers’ daily responsibilities align with the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography’s (SDMS) Sonographer’s Scope of Practice and Clinical Standards. Materials and Methods: A survey was disseminated to SDMS members and clinical sonographers with at least 5 years experience. The survey addressed demographics, education, certification, specialties practiced, job title, work environment, and scope of practice. Results: Of the 613 sonographers who responded, 90% were female and 10% male; the most common age group was 55–64 (36.7%). Most sonographers had a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree. Eighty-three percent of respondents were White, 5.4% Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin, 3% Black or African American, and 3% Asian. While 63% of sonographers have read the SDMS Scope of Practice, 52% reported they perform tasks not included or addressed, in their job description. Many teach sonography in the workplace and provide oral and/or written preliminary impressions and diagnoses. Conclusion: There are regional differences in scope of practice and gender differences in place of employment and job title. Sonographers reported to practice within the SDMS parameters. The guidelines can be expanded to include educating health professionals in sonography and having an increased role in providing diagnoses.

Analyse des Verantwortungs- und Tätigkeitsbereichs des Berufsbilds „Sonographer“ und Möglichkeiten der Umsetzung in Deutschland

“…Die Sonographer erstellen in unterschiedlicher Form ihre Befunde unter ärztlicher Supervision. Ein Drittel der Sonographer teilt die vorläufigen Befunde digital über das Bildarchiv ohne ärztliche Besprechung, 16 % kommunizieren ihre Befunde verbal dem ärztlichen Personal, 19 % bereiten einen schriftlichen Befund vor, und 27 % kombinieren diese Dokumentationsformen [32]. Als grundlegend für die Befunderhebung der Sonographer wird die Standardnomenklatur angesehen [33].…”

“…Als grundlegend für die Befunderhebung der Sonographer wird die Standardnomenklatur angesehen [33]. In einer aktuellen Berufsfeldstudie wurde bestätigt, dass sich diese Befundungspraxis ebenso auf das Verfassen und Kommunizieren von Diagnosen erweitert hat [32].…”

Sound the Alarm: The Sonographer Shortage Is Echoing Across Healthcare

“…[3][4][5][6] However, in the United States, ultrasound exams are protocol-driven, sonographer-performed studies that are overseen, sometimes overscanned, and interpreted by physicians, who, therefore, rely on and trust that sonographers produce images that clearly show the underlying pathology. 7 Therefore, extensive training at clinical sites and thorough education at ultrasound schools play a vital role in cultivating effective sonographers.…”

“…Physicians in many countries, especially in parts of Europe, Latin America, and some regions in Asia, often perform ultrasound examinations themselves, particularly in countries where the profession of a sonographer is not as established or recognized 3–6 . However, in the United States, ultrasound exams are protocol‐driven, sonographer‐performed studies that are overseen, sometimes overscanned, and interpreted by physicians, who, therefore, rely on and trust that sonographers produce images that clearly show the underlying pathology 7 . Therefore, extensive training at clinical sites and thorough education at ultrasound schools play a vital role in cultivating effective sonographers.…”