Message from the CEO

It is my pleasure to present our latest Soundeffects news: the sonography discussions, insights and perspectives issue. In this issue, we continue the conversations from the first ASA Arena held this year at the ASA Annual International Conference in Brisbane. Those who were there in person had the opportunity to listen to expert panellists, ask questions, offer opinions, and be a part of the discussion on a range of topics currently affecting sonographers. This Soundeffects news issue delves a little deeper into the topics explored at the ASA Arena, including issues such as professional development, workforce challenges, and the future of the sonography profession.

The first topic in this publication, Parent/Patient communication, Dr Kate Russo and Paula Kinnane FASA, highlight the benefits of patient-centred communication in sonography, stressing open, empathetic, and culturally sensitive communication and considering the broader social determinants of health.

Matthew Adams, in the Sonographer reporting section, analyses international reporting models and considers their potential in Australia, examining standards for sonographer reporting across different workplaces.

In the Clinical supervision section, Christopher Gilmore FASA and Louise Worley FASA emphasise the importance of expertise and leadership skills in shaping the next generation of sonographers with experts sharing their experiences and innovative approaches to supervision.

In the forward-looking piece exploring the Future of sonography, Caterina Watson AFASA and Dr Mark Stieler examine point of care ultrasound (POCUS), technological changes, AI’s impact, sonographers’ full scope of practice, and the joined-up care with other allied health professions.

Protecting the sonographer, with contributors Ian Schroen and Kerry McManus, focuses on medico-legal issues and occupational health and safety, aiming to promote better practices for sonographers and address their mental health amid increasing workplace demands.

Information sharing in the ‘Dr Google’ social media world explores the role of sonography in the digital landscape, addressing the challenges of navigating patient expectations and misinformation. Daniel Rae AFASA also discusses using technology for educational purposes and professional promotion.

For the topic Reassessing the ultrasound education model and training, Jane Wardle and Christopher Lewis discuss the need to rethink current ultrasound education models and practices to better align them with industry requirements.

Focusing our attention on Career pathways for sonographers, Dr Kerry Thoirs highlights the diverse career opportunities beyond clinical practice in diagnostic medical sonography, encouraging exploration of further education, nonclinical roles, academics, and other employment alternatives.

Finally, we ask Jaimie Feeney and Leah Gordon about their student and recent graduate experiences, as they share their perspectives on clinical placement and the transition from student to qualified sonographer, providing valuable advice for aspiring sonography students.

I would like to thank all our contributors for their time and expertise in helping us put this publication together. I encourage you to head to our website for more information, send ASA your feedback, or even start your own discussions on these important topics at your workplace, university, or with your peers.

Regards

Tony Coles CEO, Australasian Sonographers Association