Bridging the Gaps

Michael J. HartmanStandardized Competence Testing in Sonography Education

1CAAHEPCommission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) primary postsecondary, programmatic accreditation organization for diagnostic medical sonography programs in the United Statesthe largest in the field of health sciences2000 programs in 23 professions

196 accredited DMS programs 36 accredited CVT programsCAAHEPStandards and Guidelines (revised every 3-5 years)Ultimately accredits (5-10 period)ReviewsProgram Goals/OutcomesFacultyCurriculum Design/ContentJoint Review CommitteesJRCDMSJRCCVT

Majority of the workApplicationSelf-StudySite VisitPrelim Report of findings

Annual Report submitted by ProgramCurriculum DesignMost Educational Programs in MedicineDidactic learning A&P, Pathology, PathophysiologyLaboratory practice hands-on skill, limited stress/pressureClinical experience real life experience under supervisionAccreditation requires integration.

Diagnostic Medical SonographyIn most radiologic examinations, the image acquisition is done by prescribed protocols, straightforward and easy. The analysis of the obtained images and their interpretation is the challenge.In sonography, the image acquisition is complex and operator dependent, and it becomes the diagnostic process. The subsequent reading confirms the completeness of the examination and validates the diagnosis but generally cannot go beyond the provided images. Thus, in large measure, the one who holds the transducer makes the diagnosis (Finberg, 2004).

Radiography vs Sonography

Sonography: Standardized CompetencyNeed to standardize and evaluate studentsScanning skillsImage analysis

Critical thinking skills vitalExam changes based upon findings

Image Analysis

Scanning Skill

Hands-on Skill TestingHistorically on Credentialing National Board ExamTime intensiveExtremely subjectivePerson to personPlace to placeInconsistent

Current and Future Potential

MedSims UltraSim Training SimulatorBlue Phantom Ultrasound Training Model

Computers and TechnologyEfficient and EffectiveMore objective/consistent informationPerson to personPlace to placeGood for:StudentsFaculty/Lab instructorsEmployersProfession

Proposed Competency PolicyCAAHEP could implement this type of objectives-based, standardized evaluation requirement policy consistent across all accredited programs. Useful for practice and training and competence evaluationCould be re-incorporated into the credentialing exam