Doctors Warned Over Issuing Ultrasound Reports

Healthcare regulatory authorities are preparing to address unauthorized ultrasound reporting practices in order to enforce qualification standards and safeguard patient welfare, according to sources. Reports indicate that MBBS doctors have been obtaining brief certificate courses or informal training in ultrasonography, subsequently using the title "Sonologist" to generate official ultrasound reports.

Regulatory bodies are contemplating measures to ensure that qualified radiologists with verified postgraduate certifications conduct ultrasound examinations, contingent on the fulfillment of registration and legal requirements.

Sources mentioned that qualifying credentials encompassing FCPS, MD, MCPS, and DMRD in Radiology, recognized by the relevant authorities, would be fundamental. It is anticipated that such authorities will counsel MBBS practitioners to remain within their legally authorized scope of practice and refrain from issuing formal diagnostic reports without the necessary qualifications and endorsement.

Authorities aim to underscore that practitioners from medical, nursing, and allied health disciplines must adhere to their legally permitted scope of practice and preclude independent ultrasound reporting without the requisite authorization.

Non-compliance could result in regulatory actions, encompassing inspections and financial penalties, with healthcare institutions urged to comply with the relevant regulations. Reports of ultrasound examinations carried out by inadequately trained or unauthorized personnel in hospitals and clinics have sparked concerns regarding inaccurate findings, misdiagnoses, and delays in appropriate treatment.

Citizens have advocated for ultrasound examinations and diagnostic reporting to be conducted by adequately trained and authorized professionals to guarantee precise outcomes and patient safety.