DOCTORAL LEVEL STUDY IN SONOGRAPHY: MAKING THE COMMITMENT AND IS IT APPLICABLE IN EVERYDAY PRACTICE?
Morag Stout, NHS Education Scotland
Objectives:
To establish if undertaking Doctoral level study can translate into clinical practice and influence clinical ultrasound training models in the future. To highlight the commitment required to such study.
Methods:
The author (an experienced Consultant Sonographer and Clinical Lead) commenced a Clinical Doctorate in 2023. In years one and two, students are taught modules in Contemporary Theory and Research, Research Design for Clinical Practice, Achieving Evidence-based Change in Healthcare Systems and in Expert Practice. Thereafter, a Practice Based Empirical Project and Thesis are undertaken. Having completed the first year, the author reflects on the relevance and practical application of learning into clinical practice and the hard work involved in studying at this level.
Results:
Evaluation of year one indicates the applicability of the topics in the course. Studying the theory of expertise includes deliberate practice, stages of expertise and differing learning and teaching styles. Extensive literature reviews and background reading provides valuable evidence for optimising clinical ultrasound training. Exploring Evidence Based Change in Healthcare Settings provided a firm grounding in Change Theory and therein, psychological analysis of a problem. Such skills are undoubtedly of value to a Consultant Sonographer aiming to improve a patient pathway or training programme. Doctoral level study is a big commitment. Working full-time and submitting large pieces of work is onerous but worthwhile. Support from employers is required financially and in allocated study time.
Conclusion:
Studying at Doctoral level requires time, dedication and hard work. It also requires supportive employers. Such study makes sonographers look at “the bigger picture”. From commencing the course, the author has gained confidence and learned valuable, transferable skills that will contribute to improving clinical ultrasound training nationally.