A nationwide survey of point-of-care ultrasound utilization in academic versus nonacademic general emergency departments.

Objective: Despite mandatory point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) training in residency, utilization varies across emergency departments (EDs). We sought to characterize PoCUS utilization patterns in the United States, specifically comparing academic to nonacademic settings. Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to November 2024, targeting general EDs open 24/7. Site directors completed a 15-question survey on PoCUS use, workflow, and billing. Academic EDs (those with emergency medicine residents or ultrasound fellows) were compared to nonacademic EDs. Regular PoCUS use for a physician was defined as using two or more applications at least once per week; regular PoCUS use for an application was defined as at least one scan per week. A strong workflow required image storage to Picture Archiving and Communication System/Middleware and physician review. Differences in PoCUS utilization, workflow, and billing were analyzed using chi-square, Mann-Whitney Results: Of 664 invited EDs (15.3% of all U.S. EDs), 423 completed surveys (63.8% response rate) from all 50 states and Washington, DC. Academic EDs ( Conclusion: PoCUS utilization is lower in nonacademic EDs, with suboptimal workflows and fewer billing practices. Addressing these disparities may enhance PoCUS implementation and improve patient care.