Ultrasound in the Classroom: Standardizing POCUS in PA Programs

In this episode, hosts Trenton Honda, PhD, MMS, PA-C, editor-in-chief of the Journal of PA Education, and Carey Barry, MHS, PA-C, chair and associate clinical professor in the Department of Medical Sciences at Northeastern University, sit down with three contributors to a recent JPAE article on point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in PA programs. Guests Patrick Bafuma, PA-C (University of New Mexico), Janelle Bludorn, MS, PA-C (Duke University PA Program), and Michael Breunig, MPAS, PA-C (Mayo Clinic PA Program) share their insights on the development of the study, including its rationale, methodology, and key findings. The conversation explores expert recommendations for integrating POCUS into PA curricula, the importance of establishing foundational ultrasound knowledge, prioritizing key applications, and finding the right balance between classroom instruction and clinical experience. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities in moving toward standardized POCUS education across programs nationwide. Show notes JPAE article: Point-of-Care Ultrasound Curricula in Physician Assistant Programs: Recommendations From a Panel of Experts The JPAE Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.