By Roman Solek, President, Interson Corporation
Roman Solek
As president of a company (www.interson.com) that has been making ultrasound imaging probes for more than twenty years, I’ve witnessed many changes in the clinical use of ultrasound. The first trend I observed was the migration of ultrasound from radiology departments to other specialty suites, such as cardiology, obstetrics, and urology. The next big trend I’m seeing, with the availability of smaller, less-expensive systems, is that ultrasound is trickling down to primary care providers.
Point-of-care ultrasound is getting a lot of attention these days, and I am encouraged to see that our approach is being validated by many significant players.
Portable ultrasound systems are a good example of disruptive technology, not only because the units are smaller and simpler to use, but because they bring the price point down to the level where the technology will continue to migrate at an accelerating rate to the areas where it can be most useful: the point-of care.
The benefits of point-of-care ultrasound are many: ultrasound is a quick screen for stones, ectopic pregnancy, AAA, as well as vascular access, obstetric exams, and measuring bladder volume. As a quick look, it is safe, and extends the physicians’ vision beyond their fingertips.
For now, reimbursement and training are key issues for primary care providers, but I believe these factors will have less importance over time. In the near future, the ultrasound exam will become part of the normal physical, (i.e. screening for AAA) and may not even be billed. It is clinically useful as a primary diagnostic aid for many conditions, and in the end, this will save both time and money.
This is not to suggest that point-of-care ultrasound will or should replace the more sophisticated systems. Patients who need to be sent for a more detailed work up will continue to be evaluated on the high-end console systems.
That said, training is a critical issue. Although most specialists have been exposed to ultrasound within their residency programs, there are now many opportunities for primary care physicians to receive training at their local medical centers and universities, as well as at private training groups throughout the country. All of the companies involved in point-of-care ultrasound are promoting training as a way to assure responsible and competent use of their equipment. What will the future bring? Better, smaller, cheaper. You can count on it.
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About Interson Corporation
Interson Corporation, an ISO certified, privately held corporation located in Silicon Valley, is a leading U.S. manufacturer of ultrasound imaging probes. Ultrasound systems using Interson products have been installed in offices, hospitals, and clinics around the world since 1989. Interson probes are designed and manufactured in the U.S.A. and have FDA 510(k) clearance, a CE mark by TUV Rhineland, and a medical device license from Health Canada. Recognized as one of the top ten innovations of the year by the International Academy of Science, SeeMore probes extend clinicians’ vision beyond their fingertips.
Interson Corporation
7026 Koll Center Parkway, Suite 201
Pleasanton, CA 94566 USA
Telephone: 925.462.4948
www.interson.com