Post Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound

The curriculum is designed to prepare individuals to work independently in an ultrasound department with full responsibility and accountability over the diagnostic process. The candidate should be able to scan, interpret the results and write a report that can be used by physicians in the management of the patient. Emphasis is also given on the ability to interpret the request form and provide the requisite ultrasound examination. Since this is a post- graduate diploma, it is assumed that the candidates will have covered the medico-legal areas in ultrasound. The students will study ultrasound Physics, Practical Application which covers the pelvic region, abdomen, small parts and vascular technology. Paediatric ultrasound and musculoskeletal systems are also covered in practical applications.

There is a surge in the need for ultrasonographers globally since they play an important role in the diagnosis of most diseases. However, Zimbabwe has a high shortage of such cadres because of the small number of training institutions who can offer such a qualification. Parirenyatwa School of Radiography is currently the only institution offering this diploma and only offering it to Government employees. Including this qualification in an affiliate status will open up the training to other students who are not necessarily from government hospitals.

The programme is designed so that a qualified student will achieve international standards of training in Medical Ultrasound and the Allied Health Practitioner’s Council will provide registration for the qualified medical ultrasonographers.

Programme Specification

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the specified award and the outcomes of learning that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities provided by the institution.

Programme Recognition for Example Professional Body (ies)

The programme is designed so that a qualified student will achieve international standards of training in Medical Dosimetry. The Allied Health Practitioners council of Zimbabwe will provide registration for the qualified Medical Dosimetrist in Zimbabwe.

Programme Objectives

Students will be able to:

• Analyse and interpret ultrasound request forms.
• Carry out accurate ultrasound scans of the pelvic region, abdomen, vascular system, small parts and musculoskeletal systems.
• Provide proper care that is required for every ultrasound procedure.
• Interpret ultrasound results and write a report which can be used in the further management of the patient.
• Adhere to the stipulated medico- legal aspects in ultrasound eg to refer where you cannot do the procedure.
• Engage other professionals mostly the radiologists in their day today work.
• Develop critical thinking vital to improving quality and safety in the ultrasound department.
• Identify potential errors in ultrasound scanning and how to minimize them.
• Critically evaluate new innovations influencing ultrasound scanning in Zimbabwe and be able to carry out researches that will benefit the local and regional environment.
• Relate ultrasonic appearance to different pathologies.

Programme Structure

Duration of study is 18 months full time which requires three semesters with 2 levels for each academic year with 3 levels over 18 months, each level being fifteen weeks long including examination time.

Entry Qualifications

• Diploma in Radiography, Bachelor of Technology Honours Radiography, Bachelor of Science Honours Radiography or any other equivalent professional qualification.
• Minimum of 2 years post qualifying experience in the field of Radiography.

Programme Application Requirements

• • Proficiency in English language
  • Three reference letters including one from employment supervisor.
  • Prior studies in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology