A new medical sonography course has been launched at Edith Cowan University in Perth to address the shortage of sonographers in Western Australia. The initiative comes in response to the growing wait times for ultrasound appointments, with patients experiencing delays of up to two months for certain scans.

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Dr. Afrooz Najafzadeh Abriz, the course coordinator, highlighted the industry’s urgent need for more sonographers. The course aims to produce 40 qualified professionals annually from 2028 onwards to alleviate the workforce shortage and reduce appointment backlogs.

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Sonography plays a crucial role in diagnosing medical conditions, often serving as the initial investigative tool for healthcare providers. The demand for ultrasound services has been steadily increasing, with over 11 million Medicare-funded ultrasound procedures conducted last year alone.

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Recognizing the significance of practical training, the course at ECU integrates hands-on experience and clinical placements to equip students with the necessary skills. This approach aims to attract aspiring sonographers to study, work, and remain in Western Australia, ultimately enhancing healthcare services across the region.

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The Australasian Sonographers Association has expressed concerns about the nationwide shortage of sonographers, underscoring the need for greater support for private practices to accommodate clinical placements for students. Additional funding and practical placement assistance can help bridge the gap between demand and supply in the sonography workforce.

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Shani Watts, a senior lecturer at ECU and BreastScreen WA, emphasized the impact of sonographer shortages on patient care, noting the unacceptable wait times for essential scans. Improving access to sonographers, especially in regional areas, can enhance health equity and ensure timely diagnostic services for all patients.

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Students enrolled in the new medical sonography course have praised its practical focus, with opportunities for hands-on learning from the outset. The course’s emphasis on real-world experience prepares graduates to enter the workforce confidently and contribute effectively to the healthcare sector.

As the first-of-its-kind program in Western Australia, the medical sonography course at ECU represents a significant step towards addressing the critical shortage of sonographers and improving access to essential diagnostic services for patients. By nurturing a new generation of qualified professionals, the course aims to enhance healthcare outcomes and reduce wait times for ultrasound appointments in the region.