Growing concerns over unregulated sonographers

Recent reports published by The Independent and the BBC have brought renewed attention to the risks associated with unregulated ultrasound services operating within the UK. While such coverage has understandably led to increased concern among patients, it is important to clarify the nature of the issue and outline how individuals can safeguard themselves when seeking ultrasound examinations.

The concerns highlighted in these reports do not relate to qualified medical sonographers or the sonography profession as a whole. Rather, they focus on individuals providing ultrasound scans without recognised training, accreditation, or appropriate clinical oversight, often within private or non medical environments. As the title “sonographer” is not currently protected in UK law, it can be used by those who lack the formal education and clinical competence required to provide safe and reliable care.

For patients, due diligence is essential. Prior to booking an ultrasound appointment, individuals should ensure that the clinic can demonstrate that its sonographers hold appropriate qualifications, maintain registration with relevant professional bodies, and participate in continuous professional development. Ultrasound is an operator dependent modality, and the expertise of the clinician performing the examination significantly influences the accuracy and quality of the results.

It is equally important to maintain realistic expectations of the capabilities and limitations of ultrasound. No diagnostic test is infallible, and even when performed by highly trained and experienced sonographers, certain conditions may not be detectable at early stages or may present subtly. Image interpretation must always be considered within the broader clinical context. An inconclusive or unexpected finding does not in itself indicate negligence; rather, it may reflect the inherent limits of the technology. Ultrasound should therefore be viewed as one component of a wider clinical pathway, rather than a definitive diagnostic tool.

Patients can find reassurance in choosing providers that adhere to recognised clinical and regulatory standards. This clinic employs fully qualified, professionally registered sonographers, operates in alignment with NHS based guidance, and is accredited by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Our governance framework places patient safety, quality assurance, and clinical excellence at its centre.

Ongoing professional development is embedded within our practice to ensure clinicians remain current with emerging evidence, technological advancements, and best practice standards.

The recent media attention offers an important opportunity to strengthen public understanding of the value of regulation, transparency, and informed decision making. By selecting providers that prioritise professional qualification, formal regulation, and continuous training, patients can be assured that the care they receive is safe, ethical, and clinically robust.