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There’s no doubt that ultrasound scans have become a familiar part of healthcare, especially during pregnancy. They’re a non-invasive, safe, and effective way to assess both your health and your baby’s development. But have you ever wondered what happens after your scan?
This blog takes you behind the scenes, showing the ultrasound report process our team follows to ensure your report is accurate, comprehensive, and delivered as quickly as possible. From reviewing images to preparing reports, every step is handled with care and precision.
What Happens After Your Ultrasound Scan?
After your ultrasound session, the process doesn’t just stop at capturing images. Our highly trained sonographers, radiologists and support team work together to analyse the results, ensuring your referring doctor receives a complete and accurate report.
1. Sonographer Review of Your Scan
Once your scan is complete, the sonographer begins by:
- Reviewing the captured images for clarity and accuracy.
- Double-checking measurements, such as fetal size or organ dimensions.
- Consulting with peers or a radiologist (if necessary) to validate any findings.
The sonographer also fills out a worksheet, which includes:
- Measurements and Raw Data: Numerical details like fetal growth, gestational age, or organ measurements.
- Preliminary Observations: Notes on anything unusual or noteworthy seen during the scan.
- Additional Context: Information provided by you or your referring doctor.
This worksheet acts as a bridge between the sonographer’s initial findings and the radiologist’s detailed analysis.
2. Secure Upload and Radiologist Analysis
Next, the sonographer securely uploads the following:
- Your images.
- The completed worksheet.
- The referral form provided by your doctor.
Once uploaded, a radiologist (a doctor specialised in medical imaging) steps in to review the case. The radiologist:
- Examines the images and compares them with the sonographer’s worksheet.
- Makes detailed notes on any findings or abnormalities.
- Consults with another radiologist or sonographer, if needed, for complex cases.
This step ensures a multi-layered approach to your diagnosis, reducing the chances of oversight.
3. Report Dictation and Typing
Once the radiologist has reviewed the case:
- They dictate their findings using a voice recording system.
- The recording is sent to a typist, who transcribes the radiologist’s notes into a formal report.
The typist’s role includes:
- Cross-referencing the dictated notes with the sonographer’s worksheet and referral form.
- Querying the radiologist if anything is unclear to ensure accuracy.
4. Final Review and Authorisation
The typed report then goes back to the radiologist for a final review. During this stage:
- The radiologist verifies the report’s accuracy by comparing it to the original images, worksheet, and referral form.
- If needed, they consult the sonographer for clarification or additional input.
Only once the radiologist is completely satisfied is the report authorised and marked ready for delivery.
5. Sending the Report to Your Referring Doctor
Once authorised, the report is sent to:
- The sonographer, who performs a final check to ensure everything is complete.
- Your referring doctor, who will review the findings and discuss the results with you.
For standard scans, this ultrasound report process typically takes 2-3 business days. However, for more complex cases, the timeline may be slightly longer to ensure accuracy and thoroughness.
Why This Ultrasound Report Process Matters
Our goal is to provide you and your doctor with a report that is:
- Accurate: Multiple layers of review reduce the chance of errors.
- Comprehensive: Every finding is detailed and supported by data.
- Timely: While we prioritise speed, accuracy remains our top priority.
This rigorous process ensures you receive the best care possible, and your doctor has the information needed to make informed decisions about your health.
How You Can Access Your Ultrasound Results
While your report is sent directly to your referring doctor, you can also access your images using our Tricefy. If you have any questions about your scan, our team is here to help! call 03 9060 7887
Book Your Next Ultrasound Today
If you’re due for an ultrasound or want to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional care throughout your pregnancy and healthcare journey.
