Creating Success in Your Scanning Business: A Friendly Guide for Ultrasound Scanners.         

Have you ever felt the positive energy when like-minded individuals come together to share knowledge and expertise? That’s exactly what we experienced at this year’s British Medical Ultrasound Society conference, particularly in the vibrant veterinary stream. The collaboration between veterinarians, vet nurses, sonographers, and allied professionals was truly inspiring. The consensus? We can all learn from one another, and if someone is skilled and knows their stuff, why not share the load and perform certain types of scans?

Now, we understand that not every vet out there is as open-minded as those conference attendees. The truth is, ultrasound enthusiasts like us are a special breed – more engaged and interested in the ultrasound world than others. We’re naturally inclined towards a positive and collaborative approach to scanning.

Let’s face it; the lack of regulation in ultrasound training courses has created an environment where the quality of practice varies wildly. The AUA is here to set and uphold a standard, but unfortunately, not everyone follows our guidance. Lay scanners have, at times, raised skepticism within the veterinary community, leading to an uptick in complaints to our organisation. While these complaints rarely involve our members, vets look to the AUA as a regulatory body with the power to take action against poor practice.

So, let’s take a moment to reinforce some good practices to keep your business sailing smoothly:

• When in doubt, refer to a vet: Don’t play the role of a diagnostician. Avoid suggesting courses of action, and remember that even sharing well-intentioned advice with pet owners can be misinterpreted as giving veterinary advice.
• Document your work: It’s crucial to store video clips of your scans. Not only is it an essential practice, but it also helps the AUA defend you in case of any disputes. Need help with video storage? Just ask – we’ve got you covered with secure space on our Google Drive.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Stay informed about any ongoing lawsuits related to ultrasound scanners in your area. Evidence, or the lack thereof, can be a game-changer.
• Hold yourself to high standards: Just like human obstetric sonographers, who can be held accountable for their scans for over 18 years, animal scanners should maintain meticulous records of their work, respecting the species-specific requirements.
• Tailor your communication: If you sense mistrust from local veterinarians, consider adjusting your communication style. Use neutral terms, provide observations, and let the vet make the final diagnosis – just like vet nurses do.

Remember, your dedication to excellence and cooperation not only benefits your business but contributes to the overall positive perception of animal scanning. Keep up the fantastic work, and let’s continue to learn and grow together!