Ultrasound Training for Doctors

Additional training in ultrasound technology is available to medical doctors.

Also referred to as diagnostic medical sonography, ultrasound is the medical application of high frequency sound waves to create visual images of bodily structures. Medical doctors require postgraduate training and a certification examination to administer ultrasound testing.

Certification

The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography is the governing body that provides certification examinations for ultrasound professionals at all levels.

Credential

A specialized designation, the registered physician in vascular interpretation, is available for medical doctors. The Physicians' Vascular Interpretation examination is required for this credential.

Educational Requirements

A medical diploma earned in the United States or Canada and a current valid medical license are the primary eligibility requirement needed to write the PVI examination.

Prerequisite Training

Applicants to the PVI examination require current vascular ultrasound accreditation from the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories or the American College of Radiology or completion of accredited residency or fellowship program that includes training in vascular laboratory and ultrasound interpretation in combination with 12 hours of continuing medical education related to vascular ultrasound.

Residency Programs

Institutions that offer accredited medical training in vascular ultrasound include St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center, the University of Iowa, Johns Hopkins Hospital, the State University of New York at Buffalo and Rush University Medical Center.

Preparation

Some schools, such as the Gulfcoast Ultrasound Institute, offer comprehensive review courses that help prepare doctors for the ARDMS examination. A practice examination is also available on the ARDMS website.

References

• American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Physicians' Examination
• University of Iowa: Cardiovascular Medicine Training
• Johns Hopkins Hospital: Diagnostic Radiology Residency
• State University of New York at Buffalo: Ultrasound Training
• Rush University: Vascular Surgery Fellowship

Resources

• Gulfcoast Ultrasound Institute: Comprehensive Review Course
• Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories
• American College of Radiology