Workplace Resources
In this section the ASA has collated a number of resources to support sonographers at work. Resources include the Codes of Conduct for both Australia and New Zealand, medicare requirement information, as well as information on employment awards. Head to Clinical Resources and search “Workplace” for posters on stretching and posture and head to On-Demand Learning to learn about issues related to the sonographer workplace.
Codes of Conduct
ASA Sonographer Code of Conduct
The ASA Code of Conduct for Sonographers sets out the required standards of professional conduct and ethics, as well as other principles for safe and effective practice by sonographers who are members of the ASA.
ASA Member Code of Conduct
The ASA mandates that its members commit to following the ASA Member Code of Conduct. Being part of the ASA entails a commitment to uphold its core values. The Member Code of Conduct serves as a compass for ethical behaviour, ensuring that ASA's reputation remains positive by providing clear guidelines for member conduct and expectations.
View ASA Member Code of Conduct
Australia
In Australia, sonographers must adhere to the National Code of Conduct for health care workers. This national framework is administered by the local Health Complaints Commissioner, or equivalent, in each state and territory.
The National Code already applies in NSW, VIC, QLD and SA. Other states and territories are in the process of changing legislation to bring it to effect.
As part of this work, Australia’s Governments will also establish an online National Register of Prohibition Orders. In the interim, the prohibition orders are published online locally in those states that have already implemented the National Code.
View Australia Code of Conduct
New Zealand
In New Zealand, the Medical Radiation Technologists Board is responsible for setting the conduct and clinical standards for sonographers.
Sonographers in New Zealand’s must adhere to the Ethical Code of Conduct to set the minimum expectations of a sonographer.
Employment Awards
Numerous enterprise agreements within private and public health services industrial awards are registered with the Fair Work Commission and can be accessed under 'Awards & agreements' on their website. Similarly, the current Multi-Employer Collective Agreements (MECAs) between the District Health Boards (DHBs) and New Zealand Unions are readily available through the TAS website.
Please find links to both the Australian state and territory government employment awards for sonographers as well as the New Zealand Multi-Employer Collective Agreements by region.
View Australia PDF View New Zealand PDF
Resources for employers and employees
Below are resources to aid employers and employees in the workplace, including avenues for problem resolution and legal assistance such as the Australian Government Fair Work Ombudsman, legal advice services, the Health Complaints Commissioner, Employment New Zealand, and additional support options.
View Australia PDF View New Zealand PDF
Medicare requirements
In Australia, the rules for Medicare are set in legislation and subordinate regulations. The Diagnostic Imaging Services Table (DIST) is the significant instrument for diagnostic imaging. This is interpreted and applied via the Medicare Benefits Schedule, available online at mbsonline.gov.au
Key Medicare Benefits Schedule Notes that are relevant to sonographers include:
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IN.0.6 – Requests for R-type Diagnostic Imaging Services Which provide instruction and the minimum requirements of a diagnostic imaging referral request
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IN.0.7 – Maintaining Records of Diagnostic Imaging Services Which specifies that “where the service is performed on behalf of a medical practitioner, the report must record the name of the sonographer.”
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IN.0.13 – Ultrasound Outlining all the broader conditions that apply for Medicare-funded ultrasound services
Further information on Medicare rules and conditions can be obtained by contacting the Services Australia, Provider Liaison Section, by phone on 132 150. See also the Medicare Education guide - Medicare ultrasound services
Head to Clinical Resources and search “Workplace” for posters on stretching and posture
Head to On-Demand Learning to learn about issues related to the sonographer workplace