October is Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month

Increasing public awareness of medical ultrasound is an ongoing challenge for professionals in the field. Many people are familiar with ultrasound use during pregnancy, but are not aware of its numerous applications. It is an invaluable diagnostic tool used by physicians in many specialties.

Recognizing the importance of increasing public awareness of medical ultrasound and promoting its value in healthcare, SVU has joined together with the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), and Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) to sponsor Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month every October.

The goal of Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month is to increase the public’s knowledge about medical ultrasound and its many uses in health care. Although much of the general public is familiar with the use of medical ultrasound during pregnancy, many people are unaware that ultrasound can be used throughout all stages of life and for various medical indications. Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month provides ultrasound professionals with the opportunity to educate the public in their community about the many uses of this fast growing technology, as well as a chance to celebrate their profession.

Since 2003, SVU has encouraged its members to participate in Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month by familiarizing and educating their patients about medical ultrasound through specially planned activities and educational materials.

To get started, go to the SDMS MUAM Promotion Kit in the column to the right to download special MUAM logos, suggested activities, a sample news release and more. Let SVU know what you did for Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month by sending an email to info@svunet.org. Thanks for your support of Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month in October 2008.