Development and implementation of a national training program for trainers (ToT) in Point-of-Care Ultrasonography (POCUS) for family physicians – clarifications and academic substantiation

Background and rationale. Point-of-Care Ultrasonography (POCUS) represents an innovative technology with significant impact in primary care, enabling rapid and efficient diagnosis at the first medical contact. In the context of increasing patient complexity and growing pressure on specialized medical services, training family physicians in POCUS usage becomes a strategic priority. This project, led by Dr. Mihai Iacob and integrated within EURACT's Leonardo 3 educational program, builds upon foundational contributions from the Wonca Europe Position Paper on POCUS in family medicine and the European POCUS Curriculum developed in collaboration with the EFSUMB POCUS Task Force Group – both recognized European documents. A distinctive feature of this project is the establishment of a national network of certified trainers who will act as catalysts for knowledge transfer to regional and local medical communities, thereby guaranteeing sustainability and long-term impact. Furthermore, the project will incorporate modern competency assessment tools, continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms to optimize the educational process. Objectives. 1) Develop and implement a standardized national curriculum for training trainers in POCUS, tailored specifically to the context of family medicine in Romania; 2) Establish a national network of certified trainers capable of disseminating POCUS knowledge and skills at regional and local levels; 3) Introduce modern competency assessment, continuous monitoring, and constructive feedback methods into the training process; 4) Enhance family physicians' capacity to use POCUS in daily clinical practice to improve early diagnosis and patient management. Methodology. Curriculum development based on the latest European standards and guidelines. Organization of theoretical modules and intensive practical sessions using state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment. Selection and initial training of a pilot group of trainers. Implementation of digital platforms for ongoing assessment and feedback. Monitoring and evaluation of the program's medium and long-term impact. Expected impact. Improved quality of primary medical care through early and effective ultrasound diagnosis. Reduction of costly paraclinical investigations and unnecessary hospitalizations. Strengthening the national healthcare system through development of competencies and increased autonomy of family physicians. Alignment of Romania with European standards in continuing medical education and POCUS technology adoption. Conclusions. By developing a robust national trainer training program for POCUS ultrasound, this project supports the transformation of family medicine practice, contributing to enhanced accessibility, quality, and sustainability of primary healthcare services in Romania. The anticipated impact is substantial, including improved quality of primary medical care, facilitation of early diagnosis of critical conditions, alleviation of pressure on specialized services, and consequently, reduction of costs related to paraclinical investigations and hospitalizations. By aligning with European standards and promoting continuing medical education, this initiative supports professional development of family physicians and strengthens the national healthcare system.