A new medical sonography course at Edith Cowan University in Perth aims to alleviate the shortage of sonographers in Western Australia, where long wait times for ultrasound appointments have become a pressing issue. The course was developed in response to industry demand, with concerns raised about the impact of workforce shortages on patient care.
The shortage of sonographers has led to delays of up to two months for specialist ultrasounds, such as knee scans, and up to three weeks for breast scans. Dr. Afrooz Najafzadeh Abriz, the course co-ordinator, emphasized the increasing importance of ultrasound as a primary diagnostic tool, highlighting its non-invasive nature and cost-effectiveness.
Prior to the introduction of this dedicated course, aspiring sonographers in WA had to pursue post-graduate studies in other states to obtain accreditation. The new program, which combines a bachelor’s degree with a clinical placement, is expected to produce 40 qualified sonographers annually from 2028 onwards.
The Australasian Sonographers Association has expressed concerns about the growing demand for ultrasound services not being met by an adequate workforce. In response, suggestions have been made to provide additional support to private practices for taking on students and to improve practical placement opportunities for sonography courses.
Efforts are underway at the federal level to enhance training and education pipelines in allied health professions, including sonography, to address workforce shortages. The development of a National Allied Health Workforce Strategy is aimed at fostering a more robust healthcare workforce across the country.
Shani Watts, a senior lecturer at ECU and BreastScreen WA, highlighted the adverse effects of sonographer shortages on patients, emphasizing the need for timely access to diagnostic services. She also underscored the importance of expanding sonography services to rural and remote areas to improve healthcare access and equity.
Students enrolled in ECU’s sonography course have praised its hands-on approach, with practical training opportunities being a key highlight of the program. The course’s strong emphasis on practical experience has been well-received by students, who are eager to apply their skills in real-world settings upon graduation.
The course’s capped intake of 50 students has already attracted significant interest, with over 200 applicants vying for a spot in the inaugural cohort. The high demand for the program reflects the urgent need to address the shortage of sonographers and improve access to vital diagnostic services for patients across Western Australia.
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