Part 3: Industry Based Learning (IBL)
COURSE DESCRIPTION
In Part 3 of our training program, you’ll be immersed in an intensive Industry-Based Learning (IBL) phase that lasts for 72 weeks. During this period, you must be enrolled in an official cardiac sonography program at an Australian institution, while Heartscope takes on the role of your designated supervisor for the entirety of your course duration. You will also have the opportunity to receive a salary while gaining invaluable experience. Please note that, at present, we are only able to offer two IBL placement spots each semester. These placements are at clinics operated by Heartscope, located in Victoria and potentially throughout Australia.
During this final phase, you will engage in more advanced stress testing, strain imaging, and bubble study techniques, which are essential components of modern cardiac sonography. This specialised training aims to enhance your skills, enabling you to perform these advanced procedures with confidence and proficiency. By mastering these techniques, you will be well-equipped to handle the intricacies and challenges of advanced stress testing and related diagnostic assessments.
Please note, the IBL placement has limited slots and is subject to a successful formal interview process. This part of the program is designed to take your theoretical knowledge and practical skills to the next level, preparing you for a career in this challenging and rewarding field.
REQUIREMENTS/PREREQUISITES
- Course Completion: You must have successfully completed both the ‘Part 1 – Introduction to Adult Echocardiography’ and ‘Part 2 – Clinical Placements/Rotations’ courses at Heartscope Training Institute.
- ASAR Registration: You must be enrolled in a course that’s accredited by ASAR, the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry. This will validate your academic and clinical skills in sonography. You will also need to register with ASAR as a student sonographer (Your course should make you do this).
- University Enrolment: You must be enrolled in an official cardiac sonography course at an Australian institution.
- Physical Attendance: You must be able to attend practical training sessions at our sites around Melbourne in Victoria, Australia.
- Computer Literacy: As some of our materials and learning platform are digital, basic computer skills and internet access are necessary.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
- Perform a comprehensive echocardiogram
- Able to perform all procedures with minimal supervision
- Recognise pathology with sound knowledge of assessing and acquiring relevant measurements for each pathology
- Ability to write a preliminary report for finalisation
- Ability to perform stress/Dobutamine echocardiograms, Strain Imaging and Bubble Study
- ECG knowledge and identification of pathological ecgs rhythms
WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE
- Hands-On Clinical Experience: You’ll gain practical experience in real clinical environments, perfecting your skills under the guidance of our experienced mentors.
- Heartscope Certificate: Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll receive a certificate from Heartscope. This credential can be showcased at other organisations as a testament to your training and skills.
- Continued Support: Even after the course, our team will be available to provide guidance and support as you embark on your echocardiography career. Our relationship with our students extends beyond the classroom.
- Industry Connections: With Heartscope’s reputation in the industry, our endorsement could open doors to potential job opportunities in various organisations.
- Professional Work Reference: You may be able to obtain a valuable job reference from Heartscope. This endorsement can give you an advantage in the healthcare industry.
WEEKS 1-16
The part 3 curriculum spans a comprehensive 72-week program that focuses on a practical approach to learning echocardiography. To be eligible for enrolment, you must first be enrolled in an official cardiac sonography program at an Australian institution. Additionally, obtaining student ASAR registration is a requirement to participate in the course.
Throughout the course, the workload progressively increases, reflecting your growing skills and knowledge. Starting with a foundation of theoretical and practical learning, you will gradually transition into more complex procedures and responsibilities. Working at least 4-5 days per week, you will perform echocardiograms, stress echocardiograms, holters, ECGs, and stress ECGs under direct clinical supervision or mentorship.
As your experience and proficiency develop, the level of supervision gradually decreases. This allows you to become more independent, taking on greater responsibility for patient care and diagnostic assessments. By the end of the curriculum, you will have acquired the necessary skills and experience to work with minimal supervision, demonstrating competency in performing a wide range of echocardiographic procedures.
The combination of structured learning, hands-on practice, and reduced supervision throughout the curriculum ensures that you are thoroughly prepared for a successful career in the field of cardiac sonography.
Note: During Part 3 of our program, the Industry Based Learning (IBL) phase, you’ll benefit from receiving a salary for your work. Additionally, you won’t be required to pay any fees for the IBL course. This allows you to gain practical experience and financial support without the burden of course expenses.
- Time Duration: 72 weeks
- Next Start Date: TBD
- Level: Intermediate
- Type: Practical and Remote
- Format: Physical
- Assignments: 1
- For any help or inquries please email: training@heartscope.com.au
