Who interprets the ultrasound study and provides diagnosis?

• A. Radiologist
• B. Sonographer
• C. Sonologist
• D. Physician Assistant

Answer: (C)

Interpreting an ultrasound study and delivering the diagnosis is done by the clinician who specializes in ultrasound imaging. A sonologist is the physician who reviews the ultrasound findings, integrates clinical information, and issues the diagnostic report. The sonographer, by contrast, performs the exam and captures the images, but final interpretation and diagnosis come from the interpreting physician. Radiologists also interpret ultrasound studies in many settings, but the term that directly denotes the ultrasound interpreter in this context is sonologist. A physician assistant typically does not provide formal ultrasound interpretation and diagnosis in standard practice.