Original Articles: Intern use and perceptions of implementing diagnostic ultrasonography in a chiropractic educational clinic.

Abstract

Objective: Use of musculoskeletal ultrasonography has been growing in many healthcare fields. Our aim is to evaluate the use and attitudes toward musculoskeletal ultrasound within a chiropractic educational clinic.

Methods: A survey questionnaire was distributed to interns (n=168), who were provided access to musculoskeletal ultrasound services for patients in our clinic. We collected self-reported usage and attitudes toward musculoskeletal ultrasound among interns in our clinic. Descriptive statistics summarized the data.

Results: The response rate was 60.1% (101/168). Overall, 31.7% (n=32) of respondents reported access of musculoskeletal ultrasound services. Ninety-one percent (n=29) reported the experience as beneficial. Identified benefits included: improved anatomic understanding, exclusion or confirmation of diagnoses, increased confidence, and patient reassurance. Of those that did not report use, 96% (n=66) reported interest in future use. Frequently reported limiting factors included: absence of indications for imaging, and patient ineligibility.

Conclusion: Our findings support musculoskeletal ultrasound implementation in an educational clinic to enhance student learning and confidence.