Attendees explore advanced diagnostic and imaging techniques during the “Mastering
Müllerian Anomalies” session at the recent UW-hosted continuing education conference
for sonographers. (Lauren Gilbert Photo)
The University of Wyoming’s Rural Health Institute, part of the College of Health
Sciences, recently hosted its inaugural continuing education conference for sonographers,
made possible through the generous support of the Helmsley Ultrasound Initiative.
The two-day event brought together experts and learners from across Wyoming, Colorado,
Nebraska and Washington to share cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on insights. Attendees
explored a diverse range of ultrasound applications — including musculoskeletal,
breast, abdominal, vascular, cardiac and OB/GYN imaging — as well as sessions on
workplace ergonomics and ultrasound in trauma care.
“Introducing a chance for sonographers to obtain continuing education in the state
of Wyoming was a large goal of ours through the Helmsley Ultrasound Initiative,” says
Anna Hargens, coordinator with the UW Rural Health Institute. “Not only was this a
great opportunity for obtaining continuing-education credits, but also an opportunity
for interprofessional networking. Having the chance to meet so many Wyoming sonographers
and higher professionals was an absolute pleasure.”
Speakers from numerous professional backgrounds provided a diverse learning opportunity
for attendees.
“We are incredibly proud of the success of our first ultrasound conference,” says
Lauren Gilbert, director of the Rural Health Institute. “It was inspiring to see such
a diverse group of professionals and students come together to learn, share and connect.
This event demonstrates how we can strengthen the use of ultrasound across Wyoming
and beyond — supporting the vision of ultrasound as the new stethoscope in modern
health care.”
More than 30 participants earned a total of 208 continuing medical education credits
over the weekend, including sonographers, students, residents, physician assistants
and nurse practitioners. Students played a particularly active role, representing
two community colleges, Red Rocks Community College in Colorado and Laramie County
Community College in Wyoming, and presenting case study posters that highlighted their
growing expertise. Awards and prizes were presented to the top three posters, recognizing
excellence and innovation among emerging professionals.
Beyond the classroom, the conference offered opportunities to connect and have fun.
Attendees competed in “Ultrasound BINGO” for a chance to win UW gear and networked
with hospital vendors who showcased the latest tools and opportunities in the field.
This year’s conference not only expanded ultrasound knowledge across the region, but
also celebrated the strong sense of community and collaboration that drives rural
health forward. Building on this success, the Rural Health Institute plans to host
an even larger and more dynamic conference next year — continuing to grow Wyoming’s
network of ultrasound professionals.
“The College of Health Sciences proudly recognizes the leadership of Lauren Gilbert
and Anna Hargens for organizing the first annual continuing education conference for
sonographers, hosted by the University of Wyoming’s Rural Health Institute,” says
Patrick Hardigan, dean of the College of Health Sciences. “Supported by the Helmsley
Ultrasound Initiative, this event united sonographers, students and health care professionals
from across the region to advance skills, share knowledge and strengthen Wyoming’s
ultrasound community. Their vision and dedication exemplify our commitment to innovation,
collaboration and excellence in rural health education. We look forward to continuing
this momentum and expanding educational opportunities that empower Wyoming’s health
workforce and advance excellence in rural health care delivery.”