The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) is a multidisciplinary association dedicated to advancing the safe and effective use of ultrasound in medicine through professional and public education, research, development of guidelines, and accreditation. Practice guidelines of the AIUM are intended to provide the medical ultrasound community with guidelines for the performance and recording of high-quality ultrasound examinations. The guidelines reflect what the AIUM considers the minimum criteria for a complete examination in each area for standard of care. AIUM-accredited practices are expected to generally follow the guidelines with the recognition that deviations from the guidelines will be needed in some cases, depending on patient needs.
Why is it important for a practice to be accreditated through the AIUM organization?
The goal of the AIUM is to continue to make a difference in the safe and effective use of ultrasound in medicine through professional and public education, research, development of guidelines, and accreditation.
Certification ensures that the ultrasound staff makes the grade. Accreditation by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) helps ensure that all of the other elements needed for high-quality ultrasound are in place.
Like certification, AIUM accreditation of any ultrasound practice is voluntary. To gain accreditation, the ultrasound group has to take the initiative to demonstrate that it meets or exceeds national standards in every aspect of ultrasound that is specified by the AIUM, including
• Proof that the physicians have received specialty training,
• A sound program for ensuring that all ultrasound equipment is medically safe,
• Documentation that ultrasound procedures are thorough and complete, and
• Evidence that the ultrasound equipment used is appropriate for the types of tests being performed, and that it is checked regularly to be sure it is in good working order.
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