In many rural areas of the Philippines, expectant mothers often face long travel times, high costs, and limited access to diagnostic tools. POCUS for Maternal Health in the Rural Philippines is changing that story. With handheld ultrasound devices and targeted training for local health workers, life-saving prenatal scans are now within reach for communities that need them most.

This article explores 10 powerful ways point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is bridging gaps in maternal health across the archipelago — and why it’s a game changer for women, babies, and healthcare providers alike.

Introduction

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is redefining maternal healthcare in underserved regions worldwide. In the Philippines, where rural communities face persistent challenges in accessing quality prenatal care, POCUS is becoming a game changer. This blog explores 10 powerful ways POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines is closing diagnostic gaps, saving lives, and empowering frontline healthcare workers.

1. Bringing Ultrasound to Remote Villages

In many rural provinces of the Philippines, pregnant women may live several hours away from the nearest hospital with ultrasound services. This often means traveling by boat, motorbike, or jeepney across difficult terrain — a trip that can be both costly and physically exhausting for expectant mothers. The result? Many women simply skip essential scans altogether.

With POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines, healthcare providers can now carry handheld devices directly into these communities. These lightweight, portable scanners can be connected to a tablet or smartphone, allowing midwives and rural doctors to perform pregnancy ultrasounds right inside barangay health stations or community clinics. This eliminates the need for long-distance travel, cuts costs for families, and ensures timely prenatal monitoring.

2. Detecting High-Risk Pregnancies Early

Conditions like placenta previa, breech presentation, multiple gestations, or abnormal placental attachment are leading contributors to maternal and neonatal complications. According to World Health Organization (WHO), many of these issues can be detected as early as the second trimester with a single quality ultrasound scan.

POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines enables midwives, nurses, and general practitioners to identify these risks well before delivery. In one Philippine pilot project, over 31% of pregnant women scanned had an unsuspected complication that could have endangered them or their babies during birth. By catching these conditions early, rural healthcare workers can refer mothers to hospitals with surgical capacity, arrange safe transportation, and prepare necessary interventions before emergencies occur.

3. Empowering Community Health Workers

In the absence of OB-GYNs, rural midwives and nurses are often the primary — and sometimes only — healthcare providers for pregnant women in the Philippines. Unfortunately, their traditional toolkit is limited to blood pressure cuffs, fetal dopplers, and physical assessments, which cannot reveal many dangerous conditions.

Through targeted training programs like the Catanduanes Ultrasound Fellowship, these frontline providers are now learning how to perform and interpret obstetric POCUS. Even with short, focused training, studies show midwives can achieve diagnostic agreement rates of over 90% with experienced sonographers. This skillset gives them the confidence to make informed, immediate decisions and strengthens their role as trusted maternal health advocates within their communities.

4. Increasing Antenatal Visit Attendance

One of the most underestimated benefits of introducing POCUS into rural clinics is its impact on antenatal visit attendance. Expectant mothers are far more likely to attend regular checkups when they know they will see their baby’s image or hear the heartbeat — making each visit more engaging and meaningful.

Research from similar programs in Asia and Africa has shown a clear rise in prenatal visit compliance after POCUS was introduced. In the Philippines, local midwives report that expectant mothers often bring family members to witness the scan, creating a positive community culture around maternal health. The emotional connection and reassurance provided by ultrasound can transform antenatal care from a purely medical task into a bonding experience for both mother and family.

5. Improving Emergency Preparedness

Pregnancy complications often strike without warning, but many can be anticipated with proper screening. POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines allows providers to detect risks — such as abnormal fetal positioning, signs of preterm labor, or low amniotic fluid — months before delivery.

By identifying these red flags early, rural clinics can prepare an emergency plan, secure transport to referral hospitals, and alert higher-level facilities in advance. In provinces where one doctor may serve tens of thousands of people, this proactive approach is lifesaving. It also prevents last-minute emergencies that place both mothers and healthcare systems under extreme pressure.

6. Reducing Maternal and Neonatal Mortality

Maternal mortality remains a serious challenge in the Philippines, with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reporting that around 13 women die every day from pregnancy-related complications. Many of these deaths are preventable with timely diagnosis and intervention.

In rural pilot programs, handheld POCUS devices have been credited with reducing preventable maternal deaths by as much as 6% and neonatal deaths by nearly 15% through early detection of complications. When paired with timely referrals, these scans ensure high-risk pregnancies are managed in safer settings, leading to healthier outcomes for both mother and child.

7. Cost-Effective Technology for Low-Resource Settings

Traditional ultrasound machines can cost tens of thousands of dollars and require specialized facilities. In contrast, portable POCUS devices like the Butterfly iQ are far more affordable, require minimal infrastructure, and can be operated with a mobile phone.

For rural health units with tight budgets, this technology represents a game-changing investment. One device can serve hundreds of pregnancies per year, allowing continuous monitoring without the overhead of a full hospital-based imaging department. The low maintenance requirements also make them practical for clinics in remote or typhoon-prone areas, where resources are scarce and resilience is essential.

8. Real-Time Specialist Support with ScanHub

Even with basic training, some cases require specialist input. ScanHub enables rural providers to share scans instantly with remote experts for second opinions. This is especially valuable in the Philippines’ island provinces, where specialist access can be limited by geography.

Through secure cloud sharing, obstetricians and radiologists in urban centers can review images and provide feedback within minutes. This ensures accurate diagnoses, informed treatment plans, and continuity of care — all without requiring the patient to travel long distances for a consultation.

9. Simplified Scanning with ScanHub

ScanHub is GUSI’s mobile application (available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store) that enables even minimally trained providers to perform quality scans. Its intuitive design ensures POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines can be integrated quickly into local clinics.

While traditional ultrasound training can take years, tools like ScanOne and ScanHub are designed to simplify scanning for new users. Their intuitive interfaces guide health workers through basic obstetric protocols step-by-step, ensuring consistent and reliable results.

This democratization of ultrasound use means POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines can be integrated quickly into busy clinics, even when staff have limited prior imaging experience. It also makes scaling up ultrasound access across rural health networks far more achievable.

10. Building Sustainable Local Ultrasound Networks

Short-term training programs can spark change, but sustainable improvement comes from ongoing mentorship. The Catanduanes Ultrasound Fellowship is a prime example — offering graduates continuous education, tele-ultrasound supervision, and case reviews to keep skills sharp.

By creating a network of trained ultrasound “champions” across the province, the fellowship ensures knowledge is passed on, devices are actively used, and more providers are trained over time. This model can be replicated across other underserved areas, building a nationwide web of skilled providers ready to deliver safe, effective maternal care.

Conclusion: From Local Impact to National Transformation

POCUS for maternal health in rural Philippines is more than just a diagnostic tool — it’s a lifeline that is rewriting the story of maternal care in underserved communities. By detecting complications early, empowering local healthcare providers, and harnessing technology like ScanHub for real-time specialist support, we are closing the gap between rural and urban maternal health. The progress seen in provinces like Catanduanes shows what’s possible when innovation meets commitment. With sustained training, community engagement, and access to portable ultrasound technology, this impact can scale nationwide — ensuring no mother is left without the care she needs, no matter how remote her home may be.

Transform your practice with GUSI’s proven training programs:

• In-Person Courses – Master techniques with live instruction
• Fellowships – Become a POCUS expert through intensive training
• Online Courses – Learn anytime, anywhere with expert guidance

FAQs

1. Can POCUS replace traditional ultrasound in all cases?
No. POCUS is best used for screening and triage, with complex cases referred to specialists.

2. How long does it take to train a midwife in POCUS?
Basic obstetric POCUS training can be completed in 2–5 days, with ongoing mentorship recommended.

3. What is the role of ScanHub in maternal care?
It enables remote consultations and real-time specialist support for rural providers.

4. Can POCUS help with non-obstetric conditions?
Yes. POCUS is also used for cardiac, abdominal, and lung assessments in primary care.

5. How can donors support POCUS programs in the Philippines?
By funding devices, training, and mentorship programs for rural healthcare workers.

References

• Global Ultrasound Institute. POCUS Training Programs. https://globalultrasoundinstitute.com

• • World Health Organization – Recommendations on Antenatal Care
  • World Health Organization. WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience. Geneva: WHO, 2016.
  • UNICEF Philippines. Maternal and newborn health in the Philippines. UNICEF, 2023.
  • Moyo SR, et al. Point-of-care ultrasound in low-resource settings: a scoping review. Global Health Sci Pract. 2022.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains the world’s leading cause of death from an infectious disease, with over 10.8 million cases and 1.25 million deaths reported globally in 2024. In low-resource settings, early diagnosis continues to be a massive barrier to care. Could lung ultrasound (LUS) help fill that gap?

In this June 18 webinar, hosted by Global Ultrasound Institute (GUSI), Dr. Mena Ramos and Dr. Kevin Bergman brought together TB researchers, family physicians, emergency doctors, and ultrasound educators from six continents. This compelling discussion highlighted both the promise and the limitations of using Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis detection, triage, and clinical decision-making.

1. The Global Burden of TB and the Case for Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis

Dr. Lukonde Zimba (University of Zambia) opened the session with sobering statistics: Only 50% of people with TB are diagnosed or reported, and access to care remains highly inequitable. A scalable, low-cost tool like lung ultrasound may help detect more cases earlier, especially in resource-constrained areas.

TB disproportionately affects the most underprivileged populations. We need tools that meet people where they are.

2. What the Research Shows About Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis

Dr. Matthew Fentress (University of California, San Francisco) presented a systematic review of lung ultrasound findings in pulmonary TB, drawing from both older and recently published studies. He highlighted the diagnostic potential of specific LUS features:

• High Sensitivity for Subpleural Nodules and Consolidations (56% to 100%), especially when used as composite indicators
• Low Specificity for Composite Findings (44% to 66%), which limits standalone utility
• Inability to Visualize Cavitary Lesions in most cases, a known shortcoming of LUS
• AI Integration as a rapidly growing area of research that could scale access

He cautioned against generalizing LUS results without standardization, noting that no universally accepted set of criteria yet exists to define a positive scan for TB.

There is no standard definition yet of a positive ultrasound for TB. We need more research to define key lesion combinations.

3. Malaysia’s Frontline Study: Lung Zones That Matter Most in Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis

Dr. Nafisa Idris (Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) shared results from a multi-center observational study involving 140 newly diagnosed pulmonary TB patients. The study excluded patients with prior TB or other chronic pulmonary conditions, focusing on correlating LUS findings with chest X-rays.

Key findings included:

• The R1A and R1B zones (right anterior upper chest) had the highest yield of positive LUS findings, aligning with known oxygenation and anatomical patterns of TB.
• Pleural irregularities were the most consistent finding, seen in 98% of patients.
• LUS showed greater sensitivity than chest X-ray in detecting early, peripheral disease, though the correlation with X-ray was moderate.

She described how this informed their emergency department triage process. Patients showing suspicious symptoms but inconclusive chest X-rays could be isolated and prioritized for TB workup using LUS findings as justification.

“In the ED, when X-rays show nothing but clinical suspicion is high, LUS gives us the evidence to isolate and protect.”

 4. Global Clinical Applications of Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis: Case Stories from Mexico to Ethiopia

Panelists from three continents shared how LUS is applied in everyday clinical settings:

• Dr. Bruno Vargas (Partners in Health, Chiapas, Mexico) works in mountainous areas where patients must travel hours over dirt roads to access x-ray machines. He described LUS as a lifesaving extension of physical examination. In two illustrative cases, LUS findings such as pericardial effusion and pleural irregularity helped convince TB program officers to initiate treatment even before sputum results were available. He emphasized that LUS empowered frontline clinicians to act quickly.

“It’s not about replacing X-rays—it’s about getting patients diagnosed and treated when access is a barrier.”

• Dr. Temesgen Beyene Abicho (Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia) discussed how LUS plays a central role in emergency and critical care. In scenarios such as TB-related pericardial tamponade or pleural effusion, LUS is used for diagnosis, monitoring, and procedural guidance. He stressed how its portability and real-time capability made it indispensable for unstable patients, especially when radiology is far away or unavailable.

“From rapid diagnosis to guiding pericardiocentesis, point-of-care ultrasound is everything in the ED.”

• Dr. Tom Heller (Lighthouse Clinic, Malawi/Germany) highlighted the limitations and dangers of misclassification. His experience with HIV/TB co-infected patients emphasized the need for specificity. Subpleural consolidations—while common in TB—are also seen in bacterial pneumonia, lung malignancies, and embolism. He advocated for clearer definitions and more robust combinations of sonographic signs, possibly aided by AI, to build trust among TB officers and health ministries.

“Ultrasound isn’t one test. We need to define which signs matter—and in what combinations.”

5. The Role of AI in Scaling Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis

The panelists agreed: Artificial intelligence could help bridge the gap between LUS’s clinical potential and its practical application. A recent AI study from West Africa, shared during the webinar, demonstrated how algorithms trained on image patterns achieved the World Health Organization’s target sensitivity and specificity thresholds for non-sputum TB diagnosis.

However, panelists also expressed caution. AI must be interpretable, transparent, and clinically grounded. As Dr. Heller noted, “AI can’t be a black box—we need to understand what it’s doing and why.”

• “AI may be the bridge that allows minimally trained providers to use ultrasound effectively at scale.”

Still, the consensus was clear: LUS is not a replacement for chest X-ray or microbiological confirmation. It is a contextual, adjunct tool to aid decision-making, particularly where other diagnostics are inaccessible.

Quick Takeaways on Lung Ultrasound for Tuberculosis

• Lung ultrasound shows high sensitivity for TB-related subpleural lesions but lacks specificity
• Right upper lung zones (especially R1A/R1B) are critical scanning areas for PTB.
• AI-enhanced ultrasound could expand diagnostic reach in low-resource settings.
• Clear lesion definitions are essential for programmatic adoption.
• LUS is not a stand-alone test, but a useful adjunct for triage and clinical decision-making.

Conclusion: From Curiosity to Clinical Impact

This global dialogue revealed a shared vision: using point-of-care ultrasound to close diagnostic gaps in TB care. While many unanswered questions remain—particularly around specificity and standardization—the consensus is that lung ultrasound is worth exploring, researching, and integrating contextually.

“Pick up the probe. Start scanning. Learn from your patients. This is how we build better systems of care.”
—Dr. Bruno Vargas

As GUSI continues to convene clinicians and researchers worldwide, the next steps are clear: more research, more rigor, and more collaboration across borders. Lung ultrasound might not be the silver bullet for TB, but it is proving to be a sharp and scalable tool for global health.

Want to learn more about POCUS and tuberculosis?

Visit globalultrasoundinstitute.com to stay updated on upcoming webinars, publications, and training opportunities.

Want to Watch the Webinar Recording?

The full recording of the June 18 webinar, “Clinical Applications for Lung Ultrasound and Tuberculosis: Multi-Regional Perspectives,” is available now on our website.

▶️ Watch the recording here!

FAQs

1. Can lung ultrasound diagnose tuberculosis on its own?
No. Lung ultrasound is best used as an adjunct to clinical evaluation and other diagnostic tools like chest X-rays and sputum testing.

2. What lung zones should be prioritized for scanning in Tuberculosis?
The right upper anterior zones (R1A and R1B) show the highest frequency of abnormalities in confirmed PTB cases.

3. How does AI help with ultrasound in Tuberculosis?
AI can improve image interpretation and help standardize findings, making it easier for minimally trained providers to use Lung ultrasound.

4. Is lung ultrasound better than chest X-ray?
Lung ultrasound may detect peripheral lesions missed by chest X-ray, but it cannot visualize central or cavitary lesions well.

5. What are the biggest limitations of Lung ultrasound in tuberculosis care?
Low specificity, operator dependency, and the lack of standardized definitions for tuberculosis-related findings.

Have feedback or questions?

Tag us on social or email us at support@globalultrasoundinstitute.com. Let’s keep the global conversation going.

References

1. WHO Global TB Report, 2024

2. Fentress M. et al., Systematic Review on lung ultrasound in tuberculosis, 2021

3. Idris N. et al., Malaysian PTB Lung Ultrasound Study, 2025 (presented)

In April 2025, Global Ultrasound Institute (GUSI) hosted a transformative two-day Hands-On POCUS Training for Primary Care training at the Hilton San Francisco Financial District. This immersive course was specifically tailored to the needs of primary care providers, including family physicians, internists, urgent care professionals, and advanced practice clinicians. Participants were eager to integrate ultrasound into their daily practice to improve diagnostics and deliver more patient-centered care through hands-on POCUS training for primary care. Whether they were family physicians, internists, urgent care providers, or advanced practice clinicians, each participant brought a shared goal: to strengthen their diagnostic skills and bring more patient-centered care to the bedside.

Let’s explore the structure of the training, key learning takeaways, and how GUSI is shaping the future of frontline diagnostics. The training was immersive and intentionally practical. Go with us as we  share an inside look of what learners experienced, and how GUSI’s hands-on approach is helping clinicians build confidence with every scan.

“Instructor Bruno Vargas was especially effective in his teaching style and I greatly appreciated his advice, tips and tricks. Everyone really was incredible.”
— George Allen Fritts III, DO, Family Medicine, Texoma Medical Center

Hands-On POCUS Training for Primary Care Course Structure and Learning Objectives

The San Francisco course followed GUSI’s proven two-day format, blending didactic content with live scanning sessions. The curriculum covered high-yield POCUS applications in primary care:

• Cardiac ultrasound for assessing function and volume status
• Lung ultrasound for diagnosing pneumonia, effusion, and pneumothorax
• Abdominal scanning, including FAST, aorta, renal, and bladder
• Gallbladder and biliary evaluation
• Soft tissue and musculoskeletal ultrasound
• Basic obstetric scanning for early pregnancy
• Ultrasound-guided procedures: IV access, joint injections

Each topic was grounded in real-world clinical scenarios, preparing learners to translate theory into practice immediately.

“Great training overall—efficient and informative. My second GUSI course and I plan on more.”
— Soliman Yaqub, MD, Family medicine, Health Point

Emphasis on Hands-On POCUS Training for Primary Care

At GUSI, we believe real learning happens through doing. During this course, participants rotated through hands-on skill stations, working in small groups to scan live models and phantoms. GUSI faculty were present at each station, offering step-by-step guidance and helping learners fine-tune their image acquisition, interpretation, and clinical decision-making.

Personalized Faculty Feedback and Support

The instructors weren’t just experts in ultrasound—they were approachable, invested, and deeply experienced. Their approachable, collaborative teaching style helps learners feel supported while mastering new techniques. Attendees received individualized coaching on probe handling, anatomy recognition, and clinical integration. 

OSCE-Style Assessments: Putting Skills Into Practice

A highlight of the Hands-On POCUS Training for Primary Care course was the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)-style session, a hands-on clinical skills assessment simulating real patient encounters. This format allowed learners to demonstrate their new competencies and gain confidence using POCUS in time-sensitive environments. It was challenging in the best way—fun and encouraging.

“Loved the time given for hands-on scanning. The OSCE at the end was super fun!”
— Gayatri Khanna, MD, Geriatric Medicine, Kaiser Permanente 

Why Hands-On POCUS Training for Primary Care Matters

POCUS gives clinicians the ability to act fast and see more—without needing to leave the exam room. Whether it’s confirming a pleural effusion or identifying heart dysfunction, ultrasound at the bedside improves workflow and builds patient trust. With no radiation and immediate results, POCUS aligns with the goals of patient-centered care and evidence-based medicine.

We’ve seen this in action around the world. In Kenya, a large-scale Butterfly Network implementation enabled over 500,000 scans across 224 rural facilities. With average scan times dropping from over two minutes in 2023 to under two minutes in 2024, it’s a clear example of how quickly clinicians can build proficiency—and impact care.

Educational Pathways with GUSI

GUSI offers multiple training tracks beyond in-person courses:

• POCUS Fellowship Program: A longitudinal training pathway for clinicians who want to become ultrasound champions or educators in their health systems.
• Online POCUS Learning: Learn on your own schedule with our flexible, on-demand library.
• In-Person POCUS Courses Across the U.S.: For those who thrive in hands-on settings, we continue to offer regional trainings with our expert faculty.

Key Benefits of Hands-On POCUS Training for Primary Care

• Improved clinical decision-making
• Faster diagnosis and treatment
• Radiation-free imaging at the bedside
• Reduced healthcare costs and delays
• Enhanced patient-provider communication

“We’re not just teaching ultrasound—we’re teaching a way of seeing.”
— GUSI Faculty

Quick Takeaways

• GUSI’s San Francisco hands-on POCUS training for primary care course empowered clinicians through real-time, practical ultrasound education
• The curriculum focused on the most relevant POCUS applications for primary care
• Learners gained confidence through live scanning and personalized POCUS coaching
• The OSCE session tested clinical application in a low-pressure setting
• GUSI offers fellowships, online content, and international in-person courses

Training that Translates to Better Care

More than just a skills workshop, this course was about shifting how clinicians see, think, and care for patients. Through hands-on POCUS training for primary care, expert mentorship, and a supportive community, learners left prepared to integrate POCUS into their daily routines. Whether you’re evaluating heart failure, confirming bladder retention, or guiding a joint injection, the confidence that comes from GUSI training makes a measurable difference.

Thank you to all who joined us in San Francisco! We look forward to supporting your continued POCUS journey.

FAQs

What is the duration of this hands-on POCUS course?
GUSI’s POCUS course spans two full days with hands-on and didactic sessions

Who should attend this training?
Primary care clinicians including MDs, DOs, NPs, and PAs who want to improve bedside diagnostic capabilities.

Do I need prior ultrasound experience?
No. The course is designed for all levels, from beginners to advanced learners

Are there online options available?
Yes. GUSI offers several on-demand POCUS courses through our website

How do I become a POCUS educator?
Apply to GUSI’s Fellowship Program for advanced training and mentorship in POCUS.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Have you taken a POCUS course with GUSI? We’d love to hear your experience. Contact us or share this article with your network.

References

• Butterfly Network, 2024
• GUSI – In-Person Courses
• GUSI – Fellowship Program

Explore future courses and join our POCUS community at:
https://globalultrasoundinstitute.com

POCUS training in Kenya is gaining momentum through GUSI’s partnership with AMPATH, delivering hands-on ultrasound education to frontline providers. This initiative aligns with our mission to enhance global healthcare access by equipping medical professionals with essential ultrasound skills that improve patient outcomes.

Scaling POCUS Access Through Strategic Partnerships

This training is part of a larger four-year initiative of POCUS training in Kenya led by AMPATH and Moi University, funded through Panorama Global with support from Novartis, Eli Lilly and Company, and MSD for Mothers with device support from Butterfly Network and GE Healthcare. The program aims to enhance patient-centered primary care by integrating POCUS technology into healthcare systems across six counties in western Kenya. Over the course of the project, 4,000 healthcare workers will be trained, and 190 ultrasound probes will be distributed to rural facilities, significantly expanding diagnostic imaging accessibility.

POCUS Training in Kenya: Expanding the Frontline

Following the success of the first cohort, this marks the second cohort of training under the AMPATH-led project in Western Kenya. Over the course of two weeks, we are training 95 mid-level healthcare providers, including medical officers, clinicians, and nurses. These professionals serve in Level 2, 3, and 4 healthcare facilities, ensuring that critical ultrasound skills reach the frontline of patient care.

Currently, the training is in its second week, focusing on healthcare providers from Webuye West and Webuye East subcounties. Our expert instructors are guiding participants through comprehensive modules on Breast Ultrasound, Obstetric Ultrasound, and Cardiopulmonary POCUS applications. By providing hands-on training and real-world applications, we aim to empower these providers with diagnostic tools that can significantly enhance maternal, cardiac, and pulmonary healthcare in their communities.

Why POCUS Is Essential in Resource-Limited Settings

POCUS training in Kenya has proven to be a game-changer in resource-limited settings, where access to advanced imaging is scarce. By enabling healthcare workers to visualize and diagnose conditions such as heart failure, breast cancer, and obstetrical complications earlier, we are improving treatment outcomes and saving lives. With POCUS, clinicians can make informed decisions faster, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances to hospitals and ensuring timely interventions.

At GUSI, we believe that ultrasound technology should be accessible to all who need it, regardless of location or resource availability. By working with partners like AMPATH, we continue to bridge the gap in ultrasound education and expand the reach of POCUS across healthcare systems worldwide.

Stay tuned for more updates as we advance this mission and support healthcare professionals in delivering life-saving care through ultrasound. Join our mission and learn POCUS techniques to support your medical practice and improve your standard of care today.

For more information, visit: AMPATH News.

These dedicated midwives gained essential skills in obstetric ultrasound, enabling them to identify high-risk conditions such as low-lying placenta, twin pregnancies, abnormal fetal heart rates, and more. As they return to health facilities in the Western and Sahara regions—many without existing ultrasound access—their new expertise will help safeguard the lives of countless mothers and babies.

Our guest blog contributor this month, Dr. Adjoa Boatemaa Bonsu, shares her inspiring journey from trainee to trainer and the transformative impact of this workshop. For more inspiring voices, see participant Modesta speak about working as a midwife in rural Ghana, and her excitement about scanning.

Earlier in my journey, an elated first-time pregnant woman walked into the clinic for an ultrasound scan. She radiated joy, eager to see the first glimpses of life growing inside her. But the doctor’s worried expression did not match her excitement. Instead of a baby, he had found a molar pregnancy.

The news was devastating, but through it all, I remember his steady reassurance: “Thankfully, we are seeing it early.”

In Ghana, where many conditions are diagnosed too late, early detection is a rare but invaluable gift. This doctor—a dedicated family physician—was the first to bring and operate an ultrasound machine in my small town. As a high school student shadowing him, I witnessed firsthand how technology could alter the course of a patient’s story. That was my first encounter with ultrasound–it was more than just an observation; it was a revelation. It was the moment I fell in love with diagnostic imaging, all because of a pregnant woman’s story.

Years later, I find myself standing on the other side of the journey. Now a radiology resident, I never imagined that my first experience teaching POCUS would be to midwives—women who dedicate their lives to ensuring safe pregnancies and deliveries. They stand as the first line of defense, the trusted hands guiding mothers through the uncertainties of childbirth. With ultrasound at their disposal, these midwives could detect complications at the point of care, preventing tragedies before they unfold. It was a profound full-circle moment, bridging my earliest inspiration with my current calling.

I was honored to be part of GUSI’s OB POCUS Fellowship, in partnership with the Society of Family Physicians of Ghana (SOFPOG). The program was designed to build POCUS teaching capacity, followed by a week of hands-on training for midwives and ongoing mentorship. The opportunity was thrilling, but as the training approached, so did the doubts.

A week before the program began, I was consumed by imposter syndrome.

“How can we expect to equip ‘ultrasound-naïve’ midwives with these skills in just four days?”

“What if I fail as a trainer?”

“What if the training isn’t effective?”

The fears were relentless, gnawing at my confidence. But what I didn’t realize was that I was about to witness something extraordinary.

With eager and passionate learners, GUSI’s structured curriculum, and a clear set of scanning protocols, the impossible became possible. By the end of the very first day, my anxieties melted away like morning mist under the sun. The midwives absorbed the knowledge with remarkable speed, their hands growing steadier with each scan, their confidence blooming with each success. The progress was nothing short of phenomenal.

At the conclusion of the program, the midwives left not just with new skills, but with the power to change lives. They would return to their communities, armed with the ability to detect complications and safeguard the health of countless mothers and babies. But what I gained was equally invaluable. I left with an overflowing heart, a sense of fulfillment so deep that it silenced every doubt I had before. I realized, in that moment, that being a trainer was not just something I was capable of—it was something I was meant to do.

Ultrasound skills are too crucial to be reserved for only a select few. The ripple effect of training spreads far beyond the classroom, reaching mothers, families, and entire communities. And as these newly trained midwives go on to teach others, a new generation of trainers will rise. The impact will be limitless, a cycle of knowledge and empowerment that will continue long after we have moved on.

And that, I believe, is the true power of teaching.

Adjoa Boatemaa Bonsu, MD
Vice President of Ghana Association of Doctors in Residency
Radiology Resident Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana

At the forefront of modern medical advancements, Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is rapidly transforming patient care. In a strong commitment to both educational excellence and technological innovation, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Heersink School of Medicine’s Department of Medical Education has teamed up with the Global Ultrasound Institute (GUSI) to provide state-of-the-art POCUS training for faculty, residents, and students.

The Power of POCUS in Clinical Practice

POCUS represents a significant leap forward in diagnostic technology, allowing clinicians to make rapid, accurate diagnoses at the bedside. Through hands-on sessions led by GUSI’s expert team—including Mena Ramos, M.D., Co-Founder and Co-CEO of GUSI, along with instructors Ian Thomas, Angelina Voronina, Tim Kinney, Kinner Patel, Ben Beduhn, Will Dixon, Fatema Hassam, Eva Tovar Hirashima, Tom Heller, Sebastian Schoneich, Nea Salas, Sally Graglia, Jason Chen, Keasha Guerrier, and Kimberly Okoyeze—participants  gain firsthand experience in leveraging POCUS to enhance clinical assessments.

Comprehensive Training with Real-World Impact

GUSI’s training model is built around interactive, practical exercises, which cover a wide range of imaging techniques in cardiac, pulmonary, abdominal, vascular, and musculoskeletal imaging. With a focus on simplicity and ease of use, POCUS enables healthcare providers to perform on-the-spot diagnostics that would otherwise require costly and time-consuming formal imaging procedures. This is particularly beneficial in emergency or resource-limited environments where timely decision-making is essential.

Faculty participants have had the unique opportunity to operate POCUS devices on standardized patients, with guidance from GUSI staff, to understand the profound impact this technology has on patient examination. UAB’s continued focus on faculty training further solidifies its commitment to staying at the cutting edge of medical education and innovation.

A Valuable Opportunity for Students

Not only have faculty and residents benefited from these training sessions, but UAB has also actively encouraged its students to participate, recognizing the valuable learning experience GUSI provides. Students have had the chance to engage both as trainees alongside faculty and as standardized patients during ultrasound demonstrations, gaining hands-on experience that will serve them throughout their careers.

“I want to learn everything! I don’t think I would’ve learned this much in a single day if it weren’t for this course. It’s been exciting, and I’m learning so much.” – Jinali Shah, Narendra Modi Medical College, India

“This training gives us a way to actively contribute in clinical settings rather than just observing. Learning ultrasound allows us to play a more hands-on role in patient care, making us more effective as future doctors.”    – Yalnaz Mohasin, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain

“It was intensive, packed with high-quality training, and even better than I expected! We covered all systems, and I never thought I could acquire these skills so easily. Now, I don’t just see the holistic picture—I see it through the lens of ultrasound. It’s a game-changer in clinical decision-making.” – Chakib Khouri, University of Balamand in Lebanon

A Lasting Impact on Medical Practice

The feedback from participants speaks to the effectiveness of the training. Michael Oler, Associate Professor at UAB’s Selma Family Medicine Residency, shared his enthusiasm after attending the workshops: “This is the best course I’ve had in 45 years of continuing medical education. It’s changed the way I practice more than any other course and it comes at the end of my career. I very much appreciate it.”

Expanding the Future of Medical Education

The coordinated effort between UAB and GUSI marks a major milestone in the integration of POCUS technology into medical education. By expanding access to this training, the partnership is paving the way for future advancements in bedside diagnostics, with the potential to transform healthcare delivery worldwide.

As UAB continues to strengthen its leadership in medical education, GUSI remains proud to be a part of this transformative journey—empowering clinicians with the tools and skills needed to make life-saving decisions at the point of care.

Advancements in medical technology continue to transform patient care, and SAGE AI, powered by the Global Ultrasound Institute, is at the forefront of this evolution. Designed to serve healthcare professionals at every level—from beginners to seasoned experts—SAGE AI provides instant, evidence-based answers to ultrasound-related medical inquiries. 

By leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence, this innovative tool empowers providers to make informed decisions, improve patient outcomes, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Accessible anytime, anywhere, SAGE AI is revolutionizing ultrasound education and practice, ensuring that medical professionals have the support they need—when they need it most.

This month’s newsletter focuses on Sage AI as a solution to enhance POCUS learning and clinical application through AI-driven, real-time educational support, with Dr. Scott Grogan, DO, MBA, RMSK, FAAFP, a board-certified Family Medicine physician with specialized training in ultrasound and medical education. 

“Training, or lack of training, is often cited as the major barrier to the implementation of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in clinical practice. Both users and leaders often overlook the need for in-the-moment supervision and guidance. Practitioners who wish to use the technology are not only limited by access to readily available equipment but also by the uncertainty of how to perform, optimize, and interpret POCUS examinations. Immediately available supervision from trained POCUS clinicians is often not available to guide those seeking to perform such exams. Clinical references are available but require time and effort to navigate in the hopes of finding answers to the questions that one has prior to, during, and after a POCUS exam. Sage AI, Global Ultrasound Institute’s (GUSI) POCUS educational tool, is now available to help provide rapid access to guidance and images to learners and clinical sonographers.

Sage AI is built on the foundation of GUSI’s educational library and offers quick and efficient answers to general and specific questions without having to navigate a book or resource library. As an example, when I asked Sage AI to “Help me image the biceps tendon” the ”What is the best way to view the subscapularis tendon?” Sage AI quickly delivers a concise, how-to instruction specific to the patient positioning, maneuvers, and tricks to optimize the view. It also offers links to the GUSI source content, instructional videos, images, and related journal articles. Similarly, Sage AI can help learners correct mistakes. When asked how to correct an off axis four chamber cardiac view, Sage AI reveals compact troubleshooting tips to optimize an apical window. 

Regardless of the area of the body, Sage AI opens new opportunities for a modern style of remote mentorship. It can provide confidence to new learners intimidated by unfamiliar POCUS exams or findings. There is comfort in a mentor by your side to reduce the time and cognitive burden of learning and mastering a new skill. Sage AI is yet another mentorship tool in the GUSI educational support armamentarium reducing barriers to meaningful POCUS use and improved patient outcomes.

As technology continues to evolve, so too does its potential to enhance the clinical learning experience. Sage AI holds great promise in providing on-demand, real-time support for healthcare providers. While the tool is still being refined, particularly in terms of user accessibility and functionality, its future is highly promising. I am excited about the upcoming integration of Sage AI into mobile applications. Once fully implemented, it will undoubtedly become an indispensable resource for developing clinicians, fundamentally transforming ultrasound education and enhancing clinical decision-making at the point of care.” 

Scott Grogan, DO, MBA, RMSK, FAAFP
Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Family Medicine Residency graduate from Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA

POCUS: A Real-Time, Interactive Examination

The capacity of POCUS to offer interactive, real-time insights into the body’s interior processes is one of its main benefits over conventional imaging. POCUS enables clinicians to see and react to changes and movements in the body in real time, whereas other imaging methods such as Xrays create static pictures. This approach transforms the examination into an ongoing dialogue between the clinician and the patient, allowing immediate adjustments and personalized care.  One example of this dynamic interaction is in cardiac imaging, where the physician and patient can witness the functioning of the heart first hand and foster a deeper connection.

The Challenge of Efficiency in Modern Healthcare

The emphasis on efficiency and speed in today’s healthcare system might unintentionally obscure the value of developing deep connections between doctors and patients. Physicians have little time for introspection and in-depth examination in an economic pressure-driven system, which might result in hasty conclusions that can also have a detrimental effect on trust within the doctor-patient relationship. However, POCUS can stand as an exception. Despite being a quick and accessible diagnostic tool, it allows for flexibility and follow-up, enabling physicians to revisit cases over time. This capacity to take the necessary time for attentive observation can be quite important, especially in less urgent circumstances, as it preserves the chance for a comprehensive, patient-centered approach.

Resisting the Trend Toward Mechanized Medicine

The current emphasis on cost-effective healthcare has led to a more algorithmic approach to patient care, where protocols and standard procedures dominate. Consistency is ensured by this method, but doctors and clinicians are frequently reduced to technicians who adhere to predetermined guidelines. This trend can devalue the physician’s expertise and personal judgment. POCUS, however, remains a highly personal and flexible tool. Ultrasound requires individual and highly contextual interpretation, offering clinicians the opportunity to combine the clinical context of a patient’s presentation to better understand the clinical significance of a POCUS scan. Each examination is uniquely tailored to the patient’s clinical context which arguably resists the mechanization of healthcare.

The Significance of Relationship in Patient Care

A depersonalized approach to medicine has resulted from the drive for efficiency, treating patients more like data points than distinct individuals. Other imaging modalities in radiology, which unintentionally distance the physician from the patient, can further exacerbate this detachment. On the other hand, POCUS enables a far more personal exchange. By performing the ultrasound in real time, the clinician remains closely involved with the patient throughout the examination, engaging in a direct, ongoing dialogue. This real-time interaction fosters trust, and promotes the patient being a more active participant in their care, rather than feeling like just another case to be processed.

POCUS: A Model for Human-Centered Medicine

Ultimately, POCUS represents a valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between high-tech diagnostics and the essential human aspects of healthcare. It provides a way for physicians to interact with their patients in a more personalized manner, using real-time data to guide their decisions while maintaining the emotional connection that is so important in effective care. This dynamic examination process allows for a deeper understanding of the patient’s condition, especially when compared to more static imaging technologies.

By fostering real-time dialogue with the patient, POCUS encourages a holistic approach to medicine, where technology is used to enhance, rather than replace, the personal relationship between physician and patient. This interactive model challenges the depersonalization of healthcare, emphasizing the value of empathy, communication, and the clinician’s judgment.

POCUS should be viewed as more than just a diagnostic tool; it is a method that reinforces the human element of care in an increasingly mechanized medical system. By combining technical knowledge with intuition and interpersonal connection, POCUS provides a framework for healthcare that values both clinical expertise and the physician-patient relationship. It stands as a model for future medical practice, one that champions patient-centered care and resists the trend toward efficiency at the expense of humanity.

Acknowledgment

This blog was inspired by the journal article “Medicine and the Holistic Understanding of the Human Being: Ultrasound Examination as Dialog” by Maio G., which explores the humanistic and relational aspects of ultrasound in medicine.

Maio G. Medicine and the holistic understanding of the human being: ultrasound examination as dialog. Ultraschall Med. 2014 Apr;35(2):98-107. doi: 10.1055/s-0034-1366182. Epub 2014 Apr 11. PMID: 24729423.

Success Story: SOFPOG and GUSI Empowering Midwives in Ghana

The Society of Family Physicians of Ghana (SOFPOG), in partnership with GUSI, has received a Grand Challenges Canada grant through the Country Innovation Platform. This initiative will train midwives in using POCUS for emergency obstetric care in two regions of Ghana, aiming to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

This collaboration demonstrates the incredible impact that targeted funding can have when combined with local expertise.

Here is the link to the official announcement: https://www.grandchallenges.ca/2024/innovative-pilot-projects-to-transform-maternal-and-newborn-health-in-ghana/

We are sharing this with you in the hopes of replicating this partnership model in other countries.  We know how critical funding is for everyone so we have collated and shared potential funding opportunities that we can collectively pursue. These grant opportunities are for different specializations, type of organizations, and geographic location. We focused our search on funding opportunities in low- and middle-income countries. Click this link to include you and your organization in our subscriber list.

If any of the following opportunities is relevant and you would like to work with us in developing a joint proposal, please reach out to GUSI’s lead grant writer, Kat Pauso at kpauso@globalultrasoundinstitute.com

Open Calls for Proposals in Global Health

If you are working on innovative solutions to improve healthcare access and outcomes, consider applying for these funding opportunities:

1. Call for Proposals: Improving Access to Lifesaving Tools in Diagnosis and Management of Pre-eclampsia

Donor: UNITAID

Type of Opportunity: Grant

Eligibility: Organizations from the Global South

Grant Size: More than $1M

Deadline: February 10, 2025

Unitaid is pleased to announce this Call for Proposals aimed at accelerating uptake and strengthening the market for new and underused products and delivery strategies for pre-eclampsia and maternal anemia.

2. ICATCH Application 2025-2028 Grant Cycle

Donor Origin: International Community Access to Child Health (ICATCH)

Type of Opportunity: Grant for healthcare projects

Eligibility: NGOs, community groups, academic institutions, and hospitals are eligible.

Projects must be focused on one of the five priority areas:

• Physical/Developmental Disabilities in Children
• Childhood/Adolescent Mental Health Newborn Health (up to 6 months of age)
• Nutrition/Malnutrition (6 months to 21 years)
• Care for Hospitalized Children (infants to 21 years)
• Congenital and Acquired Cardiac Conditions (infants to 21 years)

Must be implemented in a low-income or low-middle-income country (as per World Bank list)

Project directors must live and work near the project site.

Deadline: December 13, 2024 by 11:59 pm US Central Time

3. WHO Implementation Research on Integrated Care Pathways for NCDs and Mental Health

Donor Origin: World Health Organization (WHO) Global Noncommunicable Disease Platform

Type of Opportunity: Incentive grants for research

Eligibility: Young researchers enrolled in accredited academic institutions. Priority to researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Objectives: To support young researchers working on integrated care pathways for prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions. Research should focus on health sector and cross-sector actions for integrated approaches that can be scaled up to improve health outcomes.

Deadline: January 31, 2025 by 11:59 pm US Central Time

These opportunities align with GUSI’s mission to advance global health through innovation and partnerships. If you are eligible, we encourage you to apply and leverage these resources to drive change in your community.

For more information on funding opportunities or to discuss potential collaborations with GUSI, contact us today. Together, we can build a future where everyone has access to quality healthcare.

Visit our website for updates and resources to support your global health initiatives.

The increased accessibility of portable devices have made the practice of POCUS much more ubiquitous in a range of clinical settings beyond emergency medicine and critical care.  POCUS, however, has been described since the 1990’s when laptop sized devices were introduced which allowed clinician’s to perform bedside ultrasound at the “point-of-care” to answer a focused sonographic question that could impact immediate decision making at the bedside.  POCUS describes a streamlined clinical workflow whereby the clinician is performing a focused ultrasound at the “point-of-care”, most commonly with a cart-based (laptop sized) or handheld device.

This month’s newsletter will focus on how POCUS differs from traditional sonography by sharing the first hand experience of Agnes Lovell, a sonographer turned PA.

                             “As a sonographer turned PA-C, October is a special month to me because it’s medical ultrasound awareness month (MUAM) AND it’s PA week from October 6-12th. I worked as a vascular sonographer for seven years prior to PA school, spending an entire career mastering the fine art of ultrasound. Like many others, the pandemic impacted me in profound ways and I decided I wanted a bigger piece of the pie and to grow into being a provider. So, to PA school I went. In my PA training, I’ve had the opportunity to use POCUS in the OR to vein harvest for open heart surgery, in the emergency department for FAST exams and ophthalmic emergencies, and for many types of procedures in my elective IR rotation. Now, as a newly graduated PA-C I’m looking forward to utilizing POCUS in my practice in internal medicine. 

                              Reforming my approach from a sonographer to a POCUS user has been a challenging shift in perspective. Sonographers are methodical, precise, intense, and admittedly take more than a little pride in being the experts wielding the transducers and knowing more about your insides than you ever will. Imagine spending years learning how to coax a vertebral artery into revealing its secrets and then POCUS comes along and it’s like someone handed out a polaroid camera and says “forget the intricate stuff, snap a picture and move on.” For a sonographer, it’s like telling a Michelin star chef to microwave a burrito. It’s doable, and microwave burritos can be delicious and filling, but there’s this existential dread in the process. It was disorienting at first, I had to let go of the gorgeous diagnostic imaging to be formally read by radiologists and surgeons to focus on the more practical purpose of POCUS exams. 

                              Diagnostic sonography is different from POCUS in a lot of ways. Diagnostic ultrasound (DUS) is like your friend who spends too much time analyzing every detail of a movie when you ask them if it was good or not. DUS is thorough. You want accuracy? You get accuracy. Bring a book because it might take a while. DUS is usually performed by a trained sonographer or a radiologist and uses cart based equipment. These cart based machines have multiple transducers and intricate settings, each transducer costs thousands of dollars. The diagnostic sonographers are highly trained, often with a minimum of two years of full time ultrasound education. It’s usually performed in an imaging department with a dedicated space : hopefully ergonomically designed in a nice dark room. These exams are performed to a credentialing body’s specifications with required images and data gathered. The preliminary report is written by the sonographer, and the final report is written by the interpreting physician. As you can imagine, this takes anywhere from a few hours to several days to get a final report.  A lot of time and energy is spent in obtaining DUS. It’s separate from the patient’s care in a sense, as it’s just one piece of the puzzle and oftentimes “clinical correlation is advised.

                             In comparison, POCUS is a frontline tool used bedside, during patient care, in real time. It’s like your no nonsense friend who you turn to when you need an answer quickly and efficiently. These are usually performed with handheld or laptop based devices with one, maybe two transducers available. It’s done on a gurney, or in the field, maybe under bright fluorescent lights and sometimes requires awkward body positioning to perform. POCUS is much more practical and answers specific clinical questions. Since it’s being performed by the clinician with the information and the questions at hand, it’s raw and wildly useful. There’s something undeniably satisfying about being able to swoop in, do a quick scan, and actually make a clinical decision. If we’re still yearning for those picture perfect images, we can get a DUS afterwards for our fix.”

Agnes Lovell PA-C
University of Washington, PA Program
Seattle, Washington

To summarize, the primary differences between Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) and traditional ultrasound lie in their application, implementation, and the context in which they are used:

References:

• “Point-of-care ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology.” in Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2021 Feb 8; 303(4):871-876
• “Role of echocardiography in clinical hypertension.” in Clin Hypertens. 2015 Jun 17; 21:9