The four-year integration of the curriculum, divided into stages, helps medical students connect what they learn in basic science, anatomy and clinical foundations through simulation. They gain skills in ultrasound across medical specialties, combining theory with hands-on practice. The curriculum also allows them to refine clinical skills, teach peers, master ultrasound-guided procedures and engage in research. It ensures graduates are proficient in ultrasound and ready for modern healthcare.

First Stage

The Clinical Foundations of Ultrasound is the first stage of a four-year integration of the Ultrasound in Medical Education curriculum. Learning the physics and optimization of ultrasound image acquisition serves as an introduction to live ultrasound anatomy and physiology. This helps students connect what they learn in basic science courses, anatomy laboratory and basic clinical foundations through simulation. It also provides additional opportunities to practice patient-physician communication and draping techniques. This is achieved through participation in a series of hands-on sessions led by senior medical students, residents, fellows and faculty. Students are evaluated periodically throughout the year including on the OSCE exam.

3 flags labelled with stage 1, stage 2, and stage 3. Stage 1 flag is emphasized by large size. This is only decorative.

Second Stage

The second stage of the medical curriculum marks a pivotal moment for students as they transition into clinical rotations during their third year. Central to this phase is the Integrated Ultrasound Competency Curriculum, a comprehensive program designed to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application in real-world clinical settings. Through this longitudinal curriculum, medical students are equipped with the necessary tools and skills to proficiently utilize ultrasound technology across various medical specialties.

 

This curriculum is structured to allow students to delve deeply into specific ultrasound modalities, including but not limited to Cardiac, Gallbladder, Obstetrics, Soft Tissue, and Trauma. With a focus on individualized learning, students have the freedom to explore areas of interest and tailor their ultrasound education accordingly. Integral to their progression is the requirement to master three scans of diagnostic quality for three chosen modalities. This hands-on approach ensures that students not only grasp the theoretical aspects but also develop the practical skills essential for clinical practice.

 

Upon successful completion of each modality, students must complete a summative assessment tailored to the specific ultrasound modality.

3 flags labelled with stage 1, stage 2, and stage 3. Stage 2 flag is emphasized by large size. This is only decorative.

Third Stage

The third and final stage of the curriculum offers an elective opportunity for third- or fourth-year students. This elective serves as a culmination of their ultrasound training, providing them with invaluable hands-on experience in the fast-paced environment of the emergency department. Here, students have the opportunity to further hone their clinical skills, instruct their peers in the fundamentals of ultrasound, master ultrasound-guided vascular access techniques, and actively engage in ultrasound-related research and quality improvement initiatives.

3 flags labelled with stage 1, stage 2, and stage 3. Stage 3 flag is emphasized by large size. This is only decorative.

Overall, the Integrated Ultrasound Competency Curriculum not only equips medical students with the essential knowledge and skills in ultrasound but also fosters a deep understanding of its clinical applications, ensuring that they emerge as proficient and competent practitioners prepared to meet the evolving demands of modern healthcare.