Enhancing ultrasound education in obstetrics and gynecology in Germany: insights and innovations from postgraduate training

• Published in: Archives of gynecology and obstetrics 2024-10, Vol.310 (4), p.2035-2043
• Main Authors: Schlapp, Marie-Sovie, Wittek, Agnes, Neubauer, Ricarda, Geipel, Annegret, Gembruch, Ulrich, Strizek, Brigitte, Recker, Florian
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Clinical Competence; Cross-Sectional Studies; Curriculum; Education reform; Education, Medical, Graduate; Endocrinology; Female; Germany; Gynecology; Gynecology - education; Human Genetics; Humans; Internship and Residency; Male; Maternal-Fetal Medicine; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Obstetrics; Obstetrics - education; Obstetrics/Perinatology/Midwifery; Surveys and Questionnaires; Ultrasonic imaging; Ultrasonography - statistics & numerical data
• ISSN: 1432-0711; 0932-0067; 1432-0711
• DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07610-2

Background Ultrasound (US) has become integral to obstetrics and gynecology (Ob/Gyn), necessitating proficient training during residency. Despite its clinical importance, there is a perceived gap in the quality and structure of postgraduate ultrasound education in Germany. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Ob/Gyn residents in Germany from October 2023 to March 2024, using the LimeSurvey platform. The survey, distributed via email, social media, and physical flyers, garnered 211 participants, with 115 completing all sections. The questionnaire covered demographic details, US training experiences, and the perceived importance of US in clinical practice. Results Although US was highly valued by respondents, with an average of 26.1% of their clinical activity devoted to it, there was significant dissatisfaction with the training quality. Key issues included inadequate supervision, the necessity of self-training, and low participation in certification courses. Despite 93.0% awareness of professional US organizations like the German Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (DEGUM), engagement with structured training programs was minimal. Discussion The study highlights a critical need for standardized US training protocols and curricular reform in Ob/Gyn residencies in Germany. The discrepancy between the recognized importance of US and the quality of training indicates a pressing need for improvements. Addressing these gaps through comprehensive, structured educational reforms could significantly enhance the proficiency and confidence of future Ob/Gyn specialists, ultimately improving patient care.