Developing the Role of the Consultant Sonographer

Abstract

Ultrasound remains a popular imaging modality for a wide range of clinical specialities. The need for ultrasound services seems to rise inexorably. Government imposed targets, in particular the 18 week patient pathway and two week wait for patients with suspected cancer, have placed diagnostic departments under the spotlight as never before. Imaging departments have to evaluate services and workforce carefully to meet these challenges. This paper explores how skill-mix and in particular, the introduction of a Consultant sonographer, is being used to address some of these issues within the ultrasound department in Plymouth.