Summary
This case study focuses on the integration of an ultrasound curriculum at Wayne State University School of Medicine (WSUSOM) in the United States, making it one of the pioneering medical schools to do so. The curriculum was introduced in 2006, supported by 25 portable ultrasound units.
First-year medical students received instruction in six organ-system sessions covering ultrasound techniques, anatomy, and procedural skills. After completing the curriculum, students provided anonymous evaluations. The results showed that 83% of students found their ultrasound education experience positive, and almost 91% believed they would benefit from ongoing ultrasound education throughout their four years of medical school. Additionally, students performed well on the technical assessment, with a class mean score of 87%.
The study concludes that integrating ultrasound education into medical school curricula is beneficial, especially as residency programs increasingly incorporate ultrasound training. Portable ultrasound can be valuable in various healthcare settings, including rural practices and sporting events. WSUSOM continues to refine its ultrasound curriculum based on student feedback to prepare them for future challenges in medical practice.
