A new course at Edith Cowan University in Perth aims to tackle the shortage of sonographers in Western Australia, driven by increasing wait times for ultrasound appointments. The university responded to industry demands by developing this unique medical sonography course to address workforce shortages affecting patient care.

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Dr. Afrooz Najafzadeh Abriz, the course coordinator, emphasized the critical role of ultrasound scans in diagnosing medical conditions, highlighting their non-invasive nature and cost-effectiveness. The industry had long identified the need for such a course in Western Australia to meet the escalating demand for sonographers.

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Prior to this dedicated program, aspiring sonographers in WA had to pursue undergraduate studies and then seek post-graduate courses in other states for accreditation. The new course integrates both qualifications and includes clinical placements, offering a comprehensive pathway for students to enter and contribute to the workforce.

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The course’s capped intake of 50 students received overwhelming interest, with over 200 applicants for its inaugural year. By 2028, the program aims to graduate 40 qualified sonographers annually, significantly bolstering the state’s healthcare workforce.

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The Australasian Sonographers Association CEO, Tony Coles, highlighted the growing demand for ultrasound services nationwide, underscoring the need for additional support to address workforce shortages. Coles advocated for increased funding for private practices to facilitate student placements and enhance workforce development.

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Moreover, the industry stressed the importance of providing practical placement support to students pursuing medical sonography courses, aiming to bridge the gap between education and real-world practice. Efforts are underway at both federal and state levels to enhance training pipelines and align educational strategies with workforce needs.

Shani Watts, a senior lecturer at ECU Medical Sonography and BreastScreen WA, lamented the unacceptable wait times faced by patients due to sonographer shortages. She emphasized the necessity of expanding the workforce to ensure timely access to critical medical services, particularly in regional areas.

Students enrolled in the new course expressed enthusiasm for its hands-on approach, praising the practical learning opportunities provided. The combination of theoretical knowledge and clinical experience prepares them to address the pressing healthcare challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field upon graduation.

The establishment of this innovative medical sonography course marks a significant step towards addressing the workforce shortages in the field, ultimately improving patient care and reducing wait times for essential diagnostic services in Western Australia.