Dr Casey Filce | RBWH Radiology registrar

Mrs Catherine Kirkpatrick | BMUS; United Lincolnshire Hospitals Currently, I am a Consultant Sonographer, Clinical Lead and Lead Consultant Radiographer for Advanced Practice in NHS practice. In addition, I have been a BMUS elected council member since 2015 previously served as BMUS Hon Treasurer and Professional Development Officer before being elected into my current position of President Elect of BMUS. I have been lead author and expert panel member on many nationally published guidelines including NICE. Special interests lie in Head & Neck, Interventional Ultrasound including intra and extra cavity biopsies and drainages, MSK ultrasound and USG MSK therapeutic intervention. Governance and Standards. Out of work I'm an competitive netball player, runner and triathlete when I'm not injured!

Mr Martin Necas | Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, Waikato Martin is a specialist sonographer and a clinical tutor of ultrasound imaging. He is an author or co-author of 30 peer reviewed papers and clinical guidelines, 270 conference presentations or workshops and a textbook on artifacts in diagnostic ultrasound. Martin is a strong advocate for efficient, evidence-based and clinically targeted utilisation of ultrasound and independent specialist sonographer practice.

Mr Ian Schroen FASA | Eastern Health Ian has built a diverse and accomplished career in diagnostic imaging. Starting as a radiographer, he specialised in vascular ultrasound before progressing to all aspects of diagnostic ultrasound. His career evolved further with a successful role in corporate healthcare, where he gained extensive experience in sales and marketing. Holding a Master’s of Medical Ultrasound, Ian is passionate about all facets of clinical ultrasound, including imaging technology, teaching, and research. He previously served as President of the Australasian Sonographers Association and currently as an associate lecturer at Monash University, where he teaches the vascular ultrasound subject in the Post-Graduate Ultrasound program.

Join us for a lively debate exploring whether sonographers should be authorised to provide independent diagnostic reports. With international models demonstrating successful implementation and workforce pressures mounting, this session invites diverse perspectives on professional boundaries, patient care, and the future of sonography. Panellists will present arguments for and against independent reporting rights, followed by moderated discussion and audience Q&A. Come ready to listen, challenge, and have your say.