Strategies strive to revive interest in ultrasound

In October 2006 the Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound brought diagnostic ultrasound's leadership together in San Francisco. Two days of lectures and debate led to a strategy statement defining a plan to maintain radiology's leadership over the modality. Dr. Harvey Neiman, executive director of the American College of Radiology, provided the following recommendations in the SRU consensus paper. He encouraged radiologists to:

• Embrace new technology.

• Encourage FDA approval of intravascular contrast material. The field is significantly handicapped by being denied access to contrast agents.

• Advocate for trainees in ultrasound. Actions must be taken to assure that ultrasound is pictured as an exciting area for trainees.

• Seek opportunities for publication. Career advancement paths for residents choosing academic ultrasound must be created.

• Encourage the Radiological Review Committee of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education to advocate for provisions requiring a continued emphasis on ultrasound training during residency education.

• Improve the quality of ultrasound research through participation in the American College of Radiology Imaging Network and other initiatives.

• Support facility accreditation to improve or document the quality of ultrasound services.

• Develop a role and governing infrastructure for sonographer assistant, a new class of physician extender.