ISLAMABAD, Oct 25 (DNA):Healthcare regulatory bodies are set to take action against unauthorized ultrasound reporting to ensure compliance with professional qualification requirements and protect patient safety, sources said.
According to sources, concerns have been raised over MBBS doctors obtaining short-term certificate courses or informal training in ultrasonography and subsequently using the title Sonologist to issue formal ultrasound reports.
Sources said the concerned bodies were considering measures to ensure that diagnostic ultrasound reporting was conducted by appropriately qualified radiologists holding recognized postgraduate qualifications, subject to applicable registration and regulatory requirements.
The qualifications cited in an official document include FCPS, MD, MCPS and DMRD in Radiology, with recognition by the relevant regulatory authorities being a key requirement.
The authorities are also expected to advise MBBS practitioners to remain within their authorized scope of practice and refrain from issuing formal diagnostic reports without the required qualifications and approval.
Sources said the regulatory bodies would also emphasize that professionals from medical, nursing and allied health fields must observe their legally permitted scope of practice and avoid independent ultrasound reporting without the requisite authorisation.
Violations may invite regulatory action, including inspections and financial penalties, sources said, urging healthcare providers to comply with applicable rules.
Reports of ultrasound examinations being conducted by inadequately trained or unauthorised individuals at hospitals and clinics have raised concerns about inaccurate findings, misdiagnosis and delays in appropriate treatment.
Individuals conducting scans after short-term courses without meeting the required professional qualifications may put patients at risk by providing misleading results or reports, potentially affecting their treatment.
Citizens have called for ultrasound examinations and diagnostic reporting to be handled by appropriately trained and authorized professionals to ensure accurate results and patient safety.
