Sonographer credentialing is the act of issuing authority to a qualified sonographer to perform their duty in diagnostic medicine or sonography. It could simply mean licensing a sonographer. Sonographers refer to professionals in the field of diagnostic medicine. They deal with ultrasonic imaging machines to bring out diagnostic scans, images, or videos of data concerning anatomy or diagnosing. Specialized training as well as skills is essential in sonography. They aid in the analysis and modification of scans to optimize the information from the image (Adams et al. 9).
Professional certification is a vital requirement in the field of sonography in most countries. This is because the diagnostic process needs a high degree of decisional latitude, responsibility, as well as diagnostic input. Sonographers must have a deep understanding of cross sectional anatomy, pathology, physiology without forgetting communication skills. A credential on the other hand means a confirmation of qualification, capability, or influence gained by someone from an external party with the authority to do. Powers of attorney, academic degrees even passwords are a few examples of credentials (Adams et al. 17).
The accreditation process is crucial in setting standards of quality for the carrying out of basic ultrasound procedures. The guidelines and standards specify the minimum requirements for professionals in the field of medicine. They also clarify what is required for the maintenance of equipment and performance of staff members. Some of the specialties in which accreditation could be obtained are e.g. Breast Ultrasound, Abdominal or General Ultrasound, Fetal Echocardiography etc. (ARDMS, “Obstetrics and Gynecology”).
If the application is for diagnostic breast ultrasound for instance, physicians must prove participation in 60 no screening cases of breast ultrasound in the year prior to the application. For interventional breast ultrasound, physicians must have performed 25 interventional procedures that were guided by an ultrasound. The initial 5 of these cases must have been under the supervision of another physician with experience in interventional sonography of the breast. A minimum of 3 of the initial 5 must have been core biopsies. Physicians documenting that they have safely performed 75 cases that are interventional 3 years prior to the application may also satisfy the requirement (ARDMS, “Obstetrics, and Gynecology”).
Completed application forms and other supporting documents are then reviewed by an ultrasound practice accreditation program e.g. the AIUM. Reaccreditation is necessary after every three years (ARDMS, “Obstetrics, and Gynecology”).
In conclusion, sonography credentialing is a complicated task. It has procedures and qualification that are set to ensure that the best of the best is attained when it comes to the filed. As much as there are many steps involved during the credential process, all is done to ensure effectiveness and expertise is put into work in the field.
Works cited
“Obstetrics and Gynecology.” American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), Inc. Web. 23 January 2014. <http://www.ardms.org/credentials_examinations/obstetrics_and_gynecology>
Adams, D, KB Kisslo, and J. Kisslo. "Credentialing of the Cardiac Sonographer: the Need for Unification." Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography: Official Publication of the American Society of Echocardiography. 1.1 (1988). Print.
