Ultrasounds carried out for HSE by third-party staff without required qualifications

Ultrasounds were conducted for the Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland by staff from a third-party company, Affidea Ireland, who lacked the required postgraduate qualifications, according to correspondence obtained by The Irish Times. The issue emerged during an investigation into the qualifications of personnel performing these scans. Affidea Ireland, which has been collaborating with the HSE since 2015 to offer community-based ultrasounds, stated that all its sonographers are registered with the Commission for Recognition of Healthcare Professionals (Coru). However, the company acknowledged that not all employees possess the master’s-level postgraduate qualifications mandated by the HSE’s contract. The HSE requires that individuals conducting such work hold a recognized postgraduate qualification in ultrasound at National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) level nine or equivalent. This requirement is part of the contractual terms governing the provision of services under the community ultrasound program. An internal communication from Affidea Ireland’s quality team in Cork revealed that while Coru registration is the primary standard for sonographers, not all professionals working in the field hold a master’s degree. The staff member noted that international qualifications must first be recognized by Coru before they can qualify for registration. At Affidea, sonographers are not permitted to begin employment without Coru registration. While some may lack a master’s degree, the company maintains that its standards for education and experience align with those set by the HSE. A spokesperson for Affidea Ireland clarified that all sonographers employed by the company hold the necessary qualifications, experience, skills, and training to carry out the services. She emphasized that all sonographers are Coru-registered and possess either a bachelor’s degree in diagnostic radiography or an equivalent qualification path, which may include relevant postgraduate qualifications combined with substantial clinical experience. Additionally, all sonographers are required to have a minimum of six years of exclusive ultrasound practice experience before starting employment. The company further stated that all ultrasound examinations are reviewed by a consultant radiologist as part of its clinical governance processes, ensuring that patients receive safe, accurate, and high-quality diagnostic care. It also highlighted that diagnostic facilities operate within robust quality and safety frameworks, and that staff undergo ongoing training to maintain and enhance their knowledge and skills. The HSE confirmed that it has clear qualification requirements for providers delivering services under the community ultrasound program. A spokeswoman said that radiographers must be Coru-registered, and practitioners providing ultrasound services must hold the required postgraduate qualifications. She added that these requirements are part of the contractual conditions for participating in the scheme. Providers are responsible for ensuring that their staff meet these qualifications and must be prepared to provide evidence upon request. The community ultrasound service was established to expand diagnostic pathways and reduce waiting times for individuals requiring scans within the public healthcare system. By offering ultrasounds in community settings via general practitioner referrals, the initiative aims to improve access to diagnostic imaging for those holding a medical card or GP card. Despite these goals, the current situation highlights potential gaps in oversight and adherence to contractual obligations. The HSE expressed its commitment to addressing any concerns related to compliance with professional and contractual standards. It indicated that it takes such matters seriously and will engage with relevant providers to ensure all contractual requirements are fulfilled. As the situation unfolds, both the HSE and Affidea Ireland will likely face increased scrutiny over their respective roles in maintaining the integrity and safety of diagnostic services.