IFEM has developed this document on point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) training programs and practice governance as part of an effort to provide structure and suggested guidelines for best practice. It was developed as a consensus document drawing on regional and national guidelines already in practice around the world. It is not meant to be prescriptive, but rather to outline the important features of a sound training and practice program. This is in contrast to the World Health Organization and World Federation of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology guidelines, which tend to focus on practice guidelines for comprehensive consultative diagnostic ultrasound imaging; the distinction between PoCUS and consultative ultrasound imaging is important. Definitions of PoCUS are discussed below in more detail. PoCUS is not meant to replace comprehensive ultrasound imaging, which is a consultative test that focuses on traditional radiologic methods for fully evaluating anatomy and physiology. Rather, it is a complementary diagnostic tool that can help make the clinician more efficient, more independent, and more confident in their medical decision-making.

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