Is it safe for Doctors to perform ultrasound?

Until recently, ultrasound examinations were only performed in specialist radiology (XRay) departments, such as in Hospitals. In recent years however, Doctors such as Musculoskeletal Medicine Physicians, Sports Medicine Physicians and Rheumatologists are performing ultrasound examinations as part of a clinical consultation.

In New Zealand, there is no requirement for a Doctor to have had any training before performing musculoskeletal ultrasound examinations.  Nor is there any requirement to maintain competency through ongoing training.  Dr Bell has trained extensively in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, and is the lead Clinical Tutor in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound at the prestigious Australian Institute of Ultrasound, where he travels to teach Doctors from all over the world.

Additionally, he is one of only a handful of Doctors in New Zealand holding the CCPU (Certificate in Clinician Performed Ultrasound), awarded by the Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine. Holding this qualification requires an ongoing program of professional development to maintain skills and competency.