Bridging the gap in musculoskeletal ultrasound training for rheumatology trainees: development of a structured training pathway in Northern Ireland.

OBJECTIVES: Musculoskeletal ultrasound has become an important tool in rheumatology practice. Despite its increasing use in the UK, there are currently no nationally standardised guidelines for rheumatology trainees. Recommendations for ultrasound training and education have been proposed but training opportunities and assessment of competency remains variable. This project aimed to evaluate the current ultrasound training practices among rheumatology trainees in Northern Ireland and to develop a structured approach to training in order to help trainees obtain formal ultrasound qualification. METHODS: A baseline survey was conducted among rheumatology trainees in Northern Ireland to assess current ultrasound practice, supervision, documentation and awareness of certification pathways. The survey also collected suggestions for improving training and competency development. RESULTS: The survey demonstrated that most trainees perform ultrasound at least a few times a week; however, supervision remains variable. Only one trainee has a structured logbook at present. Based on the findings of the survey, a structured musculoskeletal ultrasound logbook was developed. This aligns with European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology level 1 and EULAR curriculum. It was introduced at an ultrasound teaching day together with a Bingo game that was developed to further support trainee engagement. CONCLUSIONS: This project identified significant variability in ultrasound training practices among rheumatology trainees in Northern Ireland. The introduction of a structured ultrasound logbook, targeted teaching sessions and innovative educational tools aims to standardise training and facilitate progression towards formal certification.