Misawa radiology improves patient care with new tech

Last year, the 35th Medical Group implemented a newcontinuous process improvement peer review program, providing literal andfigurative transparency and improving patient care for all Team Misawa members.

Master Sgt. Fredrick Gumm, a 35th Surgical OperationsSquadron sonographer, said the program allows technicians from other PACAFbases to access, view and evaluate exams in order to provide effective feedbackand improve airmen’s skillsets.

With new learning opportunities in place, Gumm believes thisreinforces Misawa’s medical readiness, unity and mission capability.

“Consistent feedback enhances the ability of our ultrasoundtechnicians, sonographers and radiologists, promoting the idea of continualimprovement and enabling each of us to provide excellent patient care byallowing all radiology airmen with different experiences and training to expandtheir knowledge and understanding,” shared Gumm.

Through the CPI Pacific Ultrasound Peer Review program, U.S.Pacific Air Forces radiology technicians can now select previously-performedultrasounds at random and inspect the image for accuracy and clarity, ensuringoptimal methods and practices are in use. The program also increases theability to detect potentially life-threatening concerns and expandscommunication and connection among Team Misawa radiology Airmen and theircounterparts.

“PACAF implemented the process last year to standardizeimaging protocols throughout the Indo-Pacific,” explained Staff Sgt. Nance Pea,the 35th SGC ultrasound NCO in charge. “Ensuring the best techniques are usedavoids accidentally overlooking serious medical concerns such as birth defectsor cancerous tumors.”

“A continuous share of data provides sonographers withvaluable insight and knowledge they wouldn’t otherwise have access to,” Gummadded.

The option to share and exchange radiology images enhancesunderstanding among ultrasound technicians and strengthens the career field.

“Nationally-registered ultrasound technicians can use theprocess to verify exams previously performed by personnel wishing to take theregistered diagnostic sonography exam,” explained Pea. “There are less than 100ultrasound techs in the U.S. Air Force and less than half of those arenationally registered. Since the start of this program, we’ve already receivedsix registries.”

This information sharing process strengthens theIndo-Pacific's robust network of medical professionals, equipping them withvital imagery required to maintain the Air Force Surgeon General's mission ofproviding trusted care anywhere in the world.