Gender differences in the perception and impact of ultrasound training among physicians: A survey analysis
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1
Medica Sp. z o.o., Upper Silesian School of Ultrasonography, Chorzów, Poland
2
Collegium Medicum, WSB University, Dąbrowa Górnicza, Poland
3
Szpital Miejski w Rudzie Śląskiej Sp. z o.o., Poland
4
Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Poland
5
Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
Corresponding author
Sławomir Mika
Medica Sp. z o.o., Górnośląska Szkoła Ultrasonografii, ul. Gałeczki 54, 41-500 Chorzów
Ann. Acad. Med. Siles. 2026;80:219-226
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Modern point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is assuming an increasingly important role in clinical practice across multiple specialisations. Training in this area is essential for developing medical competencies; however, there is still little known about the impact of students’ gender on perception, outcomes, and educational needs. The aim of this study was to assess gender differences in the perception, participation and outcomes of ultrasound training courses organised by the Upper Silesian School of Ultrasonography (Górnośląska Szkoła Ultrasonografii – GSU). The study follows current trends in medical education, where demographic factors are increasingly recognised as influencing teaching effectiveness.
Material and methods:
The study analysed responses from 134 physicians who had completed ultrasound training courses at the GSU. A survey was conducted covering multiple topic areas, including motivation, experiences, training outcomes and opinions on modern technologies. Chi-square tests and cross-tabulations were used for statistical analysis.
Results:
Significant gender differences were observed in the perceived impact of the courses on clinical decision-making, willingness to pursue further education and expectations regarding the integration of technology – including artificial intelligence – into ultrasound diagnostics. Women were more likely to point to the need for further development, whereas men were more likely to report an impact of training courses on professional practice. These findings suggest differing learning styles and approaches to the implementation of new competencies.
Conclusions:
POCUS training was positively perceived by both genders; however, differences in attitudes and educational expectations highlight the need for a more individualised approach to curriculum design. Addressing these differences may enhance the effectiveness of training and promote better utilization of the acquired skills in clinical practice.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We thank all course participants and the GSU team for their support and cooperation.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The author declares no conflict of interest.
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