Which units are recognised for ultrasound training and who are the preceptors?
The College does not recognised units for the ultrasound modules. Ultrasound training is organised by the Deanery Ultrasound Co-ordinator. The training will be co-ordinated by your local ultrasound educational supervisor who nominates unit-based ultrasound trainers. This applies to obstetric as well as gynaecological ultrasound, and covers the basic and intermediate modules. You will need to contact your Deanery Ultrasound Co-ordinator in the first instance.
Do I have to pay to register for the ultrasound modules?
There is no charge to the College or any need to register with the College since training is provided locally. There may however be local arrangements in place for charging for theoretical or practical training.
Are any of the ultrasound modules mandatory?
-Basic Modules
For all trainees entering training at ST1 – ST3 from August 2008 the completion of the basic ultrasound modules is mandatory to enter advanced training (i.e. transition from ST5 to ST6). Those starting ST1 in August 2008 should have completed the basic modules by the end of ST3.
-Intermediate Modules
The intermediate modules are freestanding but align with certain ATSMs or subspecialty training programmes.
From August 2009 completion of the fetal anatomy intermediate module is mandatory prior to starting the Fetal Medicine ATSM or SST in Maternal and Fetal Medicine.
From August 2009 completion of the complications of the early pregnancy intermediate module will be mandatory prior to or parallel to undertaking the ATSM in acute gynaecology and early pregnancy (click here for further details).
I am not registering for an ATSM where an intermediate ultrasound module is mandatory but I am still interested in completing an intermediate ultrasound module
This scenario needs to be discussed with your Educational Supervisor and College Tutor before seeking prospective approval from the Deanery Ultrasound Co-ordinator.
Will I need to perform a certain number of ultrasound examinations to be ‘signed off’?
No, all modules are competency rather than numbers based. They do require you to be signed off by an independent trainer, however. Specific OSAT forms for the major aspects of each module are available for downloading from the RCOG website.
Does every maternity unit with trainees have to provide ultrasound training?
Yes, having practical ultrasound training in place for the basic modules is a requirement. If there are any difficulties in this regard, please contact your Local Ultrasound Supervisor or if necessary the Regional Ultrasound Co-ordinator. There is a list of Regional Co-ordinators on the RCOG website.
Does the College run ultrasound courses?
Yes, the College does run ultrasound courses and you should refer to the Events section to view details of the courses run at the College.
What is the process for applying to become a preceptor/trainer?
This will be determined through the Regional ultrasound co-ordinators in your region and not through the College.
Will there be a training course for preceptors?
Yes, it is anticipated that there will be a ‘training the trainers’ course for those offering obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound training. Information will become available in the future.
Does the College have a national ultrasound lead?
Yes, the College has an Ultrasound Officer to deal with all enquiries relating to ultrasound and the delivery of practical training nationally (contact Bettina Müller bmuller@rcog.org.uk)
August 2010