Novel Demographic Capture Employing Electronic and Social Media: Preliminary Report from the National Cardiac Sonographer Survey

Abstract

Background: While cardiac sonography is recognized as a skilled allied health profession in the developed world, sonographers are relatively unorganized in India. This survey aimed to capture basic demographic data of this organically growing community employing electronic and social media platforms. Materials and Methods: A predominantly multiple-choice-based questionnaire was created using a free, open-access survey platform and circulated on available sonographer social media forums, messenger groups, and E-mail lists. Information distribution, data collection, and response analysis were entirely paperless. Results: Between July 2017 and April 2018, 290 sonographers from 19 states participated in this survey. Forty-six allied health courses offering echocardiography were identified across India. A majority of respondents and identified courses were based in the South and West India. About 62% of the sonographers were women, and approximately 60% were <30 years old. Multiple training pathways were displayed, and >30% held university-level degrees in echocardiography. More than 50% were early to mid-career sonographers and scanned more than 20 patients a day. All sonographer scanned under authorized supervision. A minority were credentialed after training. Less than 1 in 3 were members of the National Indian Academy of Echocardiography. Conclusions: Preliminary analysis in this ongoing survey suggests that the Indian sonographer community is young, predominantly female, and generally work in hospital-based clinical environments. Sonographer credentialing, enhanced society engagement and continuous medical education may support career development and contribute to the society's goals to promote echocardiography practice and education in India.