Hundreds of urologists recently tuned into a webinar featuring urologist Dr. Marc Feder discussing the transformative potential of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in modern urology practices. He explored how POCUS can improve patient care, streamline office efficiency, and address the growing concern of physician burnout.

Watch the free webinar now available on-demand — POCUS for Urologists: Reducing Costs and Maximizing Efficiency. Scroll down for some quick highlights.

The Challenge of Burnout in Urology

Dr. Feder began by highlighting a critical issue facing urologists: burnout. Studies indicate that urologists report some of the highest burnout rates among medical specialties, with one report even suggesting it’s among the most stressful occupations in the United States. Factors contributing to this include excessive paperwork, administrative tasks, declining reimbursement rates, and increasing regulations.

Benefits of POCUS for Urology Clinics

Dr. Feder presented POCUS as a powerful tool to address these challenges and revitalize urology practices. He emphasized that incorporating ultrasound into the office workflow can lead to:

• Improved Diagnosis and Treatment: POCUS enables immediate diagnosis and assessment of various urological conditions, such as hydronephrosis, bladder stones, and prostate issues. This facilitates faster, more accurate treatment decisions and better patient outcomes.    

• Increased Efficiency: Integrating POCUS into urology practices can save valuable time and reduce administrative burdens. It streamlines workflows by eliminating the need for patients to visit separate radiology facilities, decreasing the number of follow-up visits required, and providing immediate results. 

• Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: Patients appreciate the convenience and comprehensive care offered by urology clinics that incorporate POCUS. The ability to receive diagnosis and treatment in a single visit improves their experience and satisfaction.    

• Burnout Reduction: By optimizing workflows, reducing administrative tasks, and improving the overall efficiency of patient care, POCUS can play a significant role in reducing physician burnout and improving the work-life balance of urologists.    

Incorporating Ultrasound into Urology Practice 

Dr. Feder also provided practical insights into incorporating ultrasound into urology practices, including: 

• Types of In-Clinic Ultrasound Procedures: Urologists are performing various ultrasound procedures in the office, including renal ultrasounds, pelvic ultrasounds, transrectal ultrasounds, and testicular ultrasounds. 

Watch this 3–minute video demonstration of a renal ultrasound to rule out stones, cysts, masses, or hydronephrosis. Dr. Kevin Zorn uses the Clarius C3 HD3.  

• Wireless Ultrasound Technology: The webinar showcased the benefits of Clarius wireless ultrasound systems, which offer portability, ease of use, and enhanced workflow efficiency.    

• Two Clarius handheld ultrasound scanners are customized for urology exams, including the curvilinear C3 HD3 for transabdominal ultrasound, and the endocavitary EC7 HD3, which is the only FDA-cleared wireless ultrasound for transrectal imaging. They deliver the high-definition imaging and performance of a traditional ultrasound system for a third of the cost. 

• Documentation and Coding: Proper documentation and coding are essential for accurate record-keeping, billing, and compliance. The Clarius Cloud has built-in patient reports and integrated billing codes to streamline workflow in private practice. 

• AI-Assistance – Clarius offers several AI-powered efficiency tools designed to help increase productivity at urology clinics, which are available with the curvilinear C3 HD3 for transabdominal ultrasound, and the endocavity EC7 HD3. Prostate AI is an FDA-cleared AI-powered prostate measurement tool that quickly and accurately calculates prostate volume.  Bladder AI measures bladder volumes in seconds to expedite treatment. And Voice Controls gives you hands-free access to key adjustments during a procedure.  

Watch this 3-minute demonstration to see how Janaye Smith, CRGS, used Prostate AI to identify the prostate and perform measurements to calculate prostate volume and PSA Density. 

Webinar Q&A Highlights 

Here are some of the questions asked during the webinar, along with Dr. Fedor’s answers: 

Q: Is it possible to perform biopsies using the Clarius C3 probe? Which needle and needle guide do you recommend? 

A: Yes, there is a clip-on probe that can be used to guide needles for various procedures, including biopsies. CIVCO is a company that makes most prostate biopsy guides.    

Q: Does the Clarius ultrasound system offer color Doppler and power Doppler capabilities? 

A: Yes, the system offers color Doppler and power Doppler. While urologists may not use these features as frequently as other specialists, they are available for assessing renal dysfunction and other conditions.    

Q: Is the Prostate AI feature FDA-approved? 

A: All AI applications and advanced features of the Clarius system are FDA-approved. 

Deliver fast and effective patient care with wireless ultrasound for urology 

POCUS is rapidly changing the landscape of urology, offering a powerful solution to improve patient care, enhance efficiency, and combat physician burnout.  

Ideal for private practice, Clarius wireless handheld ultrasound systems deliver the high-definition imaging and performance of traditional ultrasound systems for a small fraction of the cost. Visit our urology specialty page to learn more! Or please book a virtual demo to discuss which of our specialty ultrasound scanners is right for your practice.