Unique ultrasound competition slated at the WVU School of Medicine

The West Virginia University School of Medicine Department of Emergency Medicine is hosting Ultrafest – a fun, informative and competitive event where students can hone their skills in using ultrasound to help them with future patient care.

The event takes place on Saturday, March 28 at the WVU Health Sciences Center. Students will get a day of hands-on ultrasound workshops taught by expert faculty and staff, training opportunities with live models and a team-based skills competition.

Registration is $10, and it includes access to the event, food and a t-shirt. Only 150 spots are available, and students can register as a full team of three, or they can register as individuals or pairs and be matched up with others to make a full team. The form to register can be found here.

When asked about the event, Dr. Joseph Minardi, an associate professor from the Department of Emergency Medicine, said the event helps students gain knowledge that enhances their existing curriculum.

“Ultrasound is a tool that can help in the clinic; when you can see what’s happening inside the body, it’s easier to move forward with the correct treatment. By getting some in-depth experience with it, students are often inspired to further learn how it can help them provide a high level of patient care,” he said.

Minardi also added that faculty reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with many emphasizing the value of the event in enhancing what’s in curriculum and the fun that students have in the skills competition.

The event isn’t limited to WVU students, other medical schools in the region can join to add an additional element to the spirit of competition.