Ultrasound examination scan times research project

The ultrasound examination scan times research project is now complete. The ASA commissioned this research in response to member interest and sought feedback from sonographers in Australia and New Zealand.

The project was conducted by researchers at the International Centre for Allied Health Evidence at the University of South Australia.

The research found that current appointment times are an issue for sonographers, with a significant proportion reporting dissatisfaction. This is most obvious in challenging exams, when more than half of sonographers undertaking echo or morphology exams report having insufficient time. This has the potential to impact scan quality and the patient’s experience.

Recommendations to improve exam times include; ensuring adequate staffing, conducting a systems-based review of scanning processes, allowing flexibility in scheduling, exploring technological solutions, and standardising procedures to streamline workflows. The research team at the University of South Australia will prepare peer reviewed publications about this project and updates on these articles will be advised as they are published.

The ASA has prepared a summary report of key research findings and recommendations.

If you have any questions or comments about this research, please email the ASA at policy@sonographers.org

READ SUMMARY REPORT BELOW