Post code lottery exists in echocardiography provision in New Zealand

Abstract

Background: In 2010 the cardiac workforce was investigated in New Zealand (NZ) for the first time and showed signs of discrepancy throughout NZ. Further contemporary and comprehensive information about the workforce size and demographics will assist in benchmarking and planning the future workforce. Methods: In March 2013 surveyswere distributed to public hospitals with a sonographer led echocardiography service. The survey questions related to sonographer workforce size, demographics and echo volumes. Summary statistics are presented and compared to previous data where available. Results: All 18 centres responded: there are 84 cardiac sonographers in NZ, 14 of them trainees. The total full-time equivalent (FTE) of cardiac sonographers is 70.4; 61.9FTE for the echo role alone. 31/70 (44.3%) of qualified sonographers and 10/14 (71.4%) of trainees are titled cardiac sonographer or echocardiographer. Ten trainees (71.4%) and 58 (82.9%) of qualified cardiac sonographers have a cardiac physiology background. Twenty-two (31.4%) qualified cardiac sonographers hold the Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (DMU) and 13 (18.6%) hold the Queensland University of Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Cardiac Ultrasound (PG-QUT). Seven trainees (50%) are undertaking the DMU qualification, with 5 (35.7%) trainees to complete PG-QUT Conclusion: Compared with 2010, changing trends in professional background, qualifications and role were observed. For the first time, the workforce FTE apportioned to a dedicated cardiac sonography role has been identified allowing local and international benchmarking of the profession and will be useful for service provision.