Board Certified Veterinary Radiologists - Qualifications and Training in Ultrasound
ACVR Public Directory - Find a Board Certified Veterinary Radiologist near you.
Veterinary radiologists are uniquely qualified to perform and interpret (abdominal and non-cardiac) ultrasound examinations. The American College of Veterinary Radiology (ACVR), a recognized specialty of the American Veterinary Medical Association, mandates rigorous training requirements for its residency programs. Radiology residents undertake intense didactic courses in the physics and technology of ultrasound and learn to correlate ultrasound with gross anatomy and surgical pathology. During the 3-year radiology residency program, the ACVR requires a minimum 6 months of concentrated clinical training in diagnostic ultrasound. A minimum of 1000 case studies are required and most programs far surpass this requirement. ACVR approved residency programs require opportunity for trainees to correlate ultrasound examinations with pathologic findings and to foster interchange of knowledge with their mentors in radiology and clinicians in other disciplines. During the training program, residents become proficient at safely performing ultrasound guided fine needle aspirates and biopsies. Clinical training requirements are further enriched with medical rounds and teaching files to promote the development of exceptional ultrasonographers. The culmination of residency training is earning Diplomate status (Board Certification) by taking a series of rigorous written and oral examinations.