The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) are collaborating on accreditation for diagnostic ultrasound and ultrasound-guided invasive procedures of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, in an effort to improve the quality of care. With the AIUM’s guidance, the AACE has developed the Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound. To earn this credential, an endocrinologist must receive specialized training, pass a certification examination, and submit case studies and reports. The AIUM recognizes the AACE’s endocrine certification in neck ultrasound as proof of sufficient physician training in thyroid/parathyroid ultrasound.
AIUM President Joshua Copel, MD, states, “The voluntary collaboration between the AACE and AIUM demonstrates the valuable results that occur when medical societies combine their respective expertise to ensure patient quality. This collaboration serves as a model for us to work with other medical societies involved with medical ultrasound.”
In addition to physician training, quality of care is also determined by the qualifications of sonographers and other nonphysicians who may perform the exams; the maintenance and calibration of the ultrasound machines; the content, accuracy, and timeliness of reports; the implementation of policies to protect patients and personnel; and regular quality assurance activities. AIUM Ultrasound Practice Accreditation demonstrates that a practice meets nationally recognized standards in all these areas. Thanks to the AACE’s input, the AIUM will now offer ultrasound practice accreditation in thyroid/parathyroid ultrasound.
A growing number of insurers have made practice accreditation a privileging requirement in order for physicians to be reimbursed for diagnostic imaging. AACE certification and AIUM practice accreditation demonstrate to patients and insurers that a practice and its physicians meet rigorous standards.
“Neck ultrasonography and ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration have become integral in the daily practice of endocrinology over the past 15 to 20 years,” says AACE President Daniel Duick, MD. “Having professional certification (AACE) and laboratory accreditation (AIUM) now available ensures patients and payers that the highest quality of service is being rendered.”
— Source: American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine