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Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Undergraduate Medical Education: A National Survey
Frances M Russell1, Reena Park1, Molly Campbell2
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
Objective:
The primary aim of this study was to assess the state of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) integration in undergraduate medical education (UME) at medical schools in the United States.
Methods:
This was a cross-sectional survey study on POCUS implementation at 155 allopathic medical schools. The survey, which was distributed to Clinical Ultrasound Directors and medical school curricular deans, consisted of 18 questions and collected data on school characteristics and POCUS curricula details.
Results:
The survey response rate was 84% (130/155). Data showed that 66% (84/130) of schools had an approved POCUS curriculum, and 13 had a 4-year longitudinal curriculum. Most schools required POCUS education in the preclinical years. Curricula taught a broad range of modalities for diagnostic POCUS, with focused assessment with sonography in trauma and cardiac being the most taught exams. Forty-nine schools evaluated students' progress and understanding of POCUS.
Conclusions:
When compared to 5 years ago, more schools are implementing POCUS in UME, with 84 having an approved curriculum. Few schools offer a longitudinal curriculum, and only 49 are assessing students' POCUS knowledge.
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