Evaluating the Discrepancy of Ultrasound Training in Physician Assistant Education: The Benefits of Advanced Practice Providers Using Ultrasound
Work Type
Poster
Abstract
Ultrasound is one of the most used imaging modalities in medicine today.13 It helps diagnose, screen, and catch diseases early. It utilizes high-intensity sound waves to investigate the body and see structures, pathologies, and abnormalities.15 This includes visualizing organs, blood vessels, connective tissues, as well as inside of body cavities. It is regarded as one of the best non-invasive, first line methods for patients presenting with a wide net of signs and symptoms. It is an essential tool in guiding patient care and is used alongside laboratory findings and clinical gestalt to guide treatment for patients. It is often available at bedside, coining the phrase “point-of -care ultrasound” or “POCUS” for short.1 Ultrasound is also utilized for guidance of invasive procedures such as nerve blocks or interventional medicine.4
When providers are proficient in ultrasound training it has been shown to increase positive patient outcomes.2,3,4,5,7,9 Yet, for advanced practice providers (APPs), such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs), there is an overall deficiency of adequate ultrasound training in their curriculum. Despite most clinical specialties being capable of utilizing ultrasound, it has not made its way into academics as much as the data suggests it should. This review is targeted towards mid-level providers that received minimal/no formal ultrasound training in their curriculum, as well as program directors to bring this to their attention to increase awareness.
The topic brings about the question; How does ultrasound training in APP education affect patient outcomes, and why is there a gap of training in these programs compared to Medical Doctors (MDs) and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs)? This discussion covers journal findings on the topic, such as advantages of ultrasound training, discrepancies in training between APPs and physicians, and common barriers that prevent APPs from getting the same amount of training as physicians.
Publication Date
5-20-2026
Citation Information
Clark, Grant, "Evaluating the Discrepancy of Ultrasound Training in Physician Assistant Education: The Benefits of Advanced Practice Providers Using Ultrasound" (2026). Student Works Physician Assistant. 56.
https://digitalcommons.dmu.edu/stu_pa/56
