Training and Credentialing in Vascular Laboratory Diagnosis

Physicians interpreting vascular laboratory studies require proper training and credentialing. It is suggested minimal training requirements include but, may not be limited to, the following: a medical license and knowledge of the fundamental concepts of vascular physiology, anatomy, and ultrasound physics. In addition, there should be evidence of training in vascular diagnostics beyond medical school, clinical experience in the treatment of vascular disease, supervised experience with specific numbers of vascular laboratory interpretations in the areas in which the physician wishes to interpret, and evidence of ongoing continuing medical education (CME) in noninvasive vascular diagnostics. Credentialing requirements are determined locally, but it is suggested that successful completion of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers' Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI) examination will provide evidence of core knowledge of vascular laboratory topics that is independent of medical or surgical specialty. Completion of the RPVI exam, completion of core training requirements, along with ongoing CME, is a basis for establishing minimal requirements for interpretation of vascular laboratory studies.