Thoracic Ultrasound - EFSUMB Training Recommendations - a Position Paper

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Ultrasound Technology
• Clinical Practice

Background:

• Thoracic ultrasound and ultrasound-guided interventions are increasingly used by medical specialists.
• A need exists for standardized, high-quality training across disciplines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB) training requirements for thoracic ultrasound.
• To establish standardized competency levels for thoracic ultrasound practice.

Main Methods:

• Recommendations based on three EFSUMB competency levels: Level 1 (basic), Level 2 (advanced), and Level 3 (high-level).
• Focus on theoretical knowledge and practical skills for each level.
• Shift from minimum examination numbers to competency-based training and assessment.

Main Results:

• Detailed outline of knowledge and skills for each of the three EFSUMB competency levels.
• Defines requirements for basic, advanced, and high-level thoracic ultrasound examinations and interventions.
• Highlights the transition to competency-based assessment in ultrasound training.

Conclusions:

• The EFSUMB guidelines provide a framework for standardized thoracic ultrasound training.
• Competency-based assessment ensures proficiency in thoracic ultrasound and guided interventions.
• These recommendations aim to enhance the quality of thoracic ultrasound practice across medical specialties.