Table 1

Points to consider for health professionals undertaking musculoskeletal ultrasound for rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases

Overarching principle All health professionals may use musculoskeletal ultrasound, following appropriate training, within their scope of clinical practice and professional background
Points to consider	Category of evidence	Strength of statement	Level of agreement mean (95% CI)
Role and scope
1. Health professionals may use ultrasound to detect musculoskeletal abnormalities and contribute to clinical decision-making.	3–4	D	9.2 (8.8 to 9.7)
2. Health professionals may use musculoskeletal ultrasound as a tool for research including health professional-led studies.	3–4	D	9.3 (8.7 to 9.9)
Training and competency
3. Health professionals must be appropriately trained and assessed for competency in musculoskeletal ultrasound before applying it in clinical practice.	4	D	9.7 (9.5 to 10.0)
4. The minimal competency requirements for performing musculoskeletal ultrasound must be the same for all ultrasound practitioners. Advanced training content may be adapted according to the needs of the health professionals.	3–4	D	9.6 (9.2 to 10.0)
5. Health professionals appropriately trained may teach musculoskeletal ultrasound according to a standardised and formalised training programme.	4	D	9.5 (9.1 to 9.9)
Application and feasibility
6. The use of musculoskeletal ultrasound by health professionals must be based on levels of competency and the individual's role within their institution/department, as directed by local and national regulations.	3–4	D	9.6 (9.4 to 9.9)
Additional value
7. By using musculoskeletal ultrasound, health professionals may improve the clinical management of people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.	3–4	D	9.0 (8.3 to 9.7)