Executive summary of the consensus document for the training and development of clinical ultrasound in Internal Medicine: Recommendations from the Clinical Ultrasound Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (GTECO-SEMI)

Abstract

Introduction: Given the increasing adoption of clinical ultrasound in medicine, it is essential to standardize its application, training, and research.

Objectives and methods: The purpose of this document is to provide consensus recommendations to address questions about the practice and operation of clinical ultrasound units. Nineteen experts and leaders from advanced clinical ultrasound units participated. A modified Delphi consensus method was used.

Results: A total of 137 consensus statements, based on evidence and expert opinion, were considered. The statements were distributed across 10 areas, and 99 recommendations achieved consensus.

Conclusions: This consensus defines the most important aspects of clinical ultrasound in the field of Internal Medicine, with the aim of standardizing and promoting this healthcare advancement in its various aspects. The document has been prepared by the Clinical Ultrasound Working Group and endorsed by the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine.

Keywords: Control de Calidad en Salud; Diagnóstico en el punto de atención; Educación Médica; Healthcare quality assessment; Internal medicine; Medical education; Medicina interna; Point-of-care diagnostics; Ultrasonidos; Ultrasound.