The next opportunity to begin the program is with the Step One Ultrasound Course being held October 21-22, 2025, in Salt Lake City, UT.
Read all the details about this certificate program before purchasing by visiting https://www.aapmr.org/education/step-certificate-programs/step-ultrasound-certificate-program. Contact education@aapmr.org for any questions.
Take the Next STEP in Your Ultrasound Education
AAPM&R’s STEP Ultrasound Certificate Program is the premiere ultrasound training program designed by physiatrists, for physiatrists.
STEP stands for Skills, Training, Evaluation and Performance. The STEP Ultrasound Certificate Program is a “multi-tiered” training program that teaches and assesses MSK and neurologic ultrasound skills using a progressive, competency-based curriculum. Participants move through a series of 3 STEPs in diagnostic and interventional ultrasound, completing each component through a combination of learning formats. Participants who complete all of the required STEPs will earn a Certificate of Completion.
Successful completion of the STEP Ultrasound Program will clearly demonstrate to your patients, fellow health care professional, employers, and the medical facilities you work with that you are committed to performing high quality diagnostic and interventional ultrasound procedures. It is the only formal, standardized training pathway, other than residency and fellowship training, available for honing and validating your ultrasound skill set.
When you earn the STEP Ultrasound Program Certificate, you:
- Perform ultrasound with confidence
- Communicate a commitment to patient care and safety
- Enhance your career opportunities
- Gain visibility and credibility in the field
- Reassure patients and employers that you are committed to pursuing excellence in Ultrasound
What is a Certificate Program and Why is it so Important?
AAPM&R’s STEP Ultrasound Certificate Program is modeled after the Institute for Credentialing Excellence’s (ICE) guideline document titled, “Standard for Assessment-Based Certificate Programs.” This type of certificate program is focused on providing comprehensive competency-based training in specific skills; it is not a "certification" that is only designed to test knowledge. Participants move through a series of 3 steps, completing various program components (i.e., Pre-test, Fundamentals, Diagnosis/Applications, Intervention, Performance in Practice, Cognitive Post-test and Skills Assessment) to earn a Certificate of Completion.
Successful completion of this high-level, standardized program will build your confidence, while clearly demonstrating to your patients, fellow health care professionals, employers and the medical facilities you work with that you are committed to performing high quality diagnostic and interventional ultrasound procedures.
CME and MOC Credit
This STEP program offers more than 50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.
- Fundamentals Course offers 17.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
- Interventional Course offers 14.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
- Online Curriculum offers 21.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
In addition, this program offers more than 30 Self-Assessment (SA-CME) credits through the hands-on courses and online curriculum.
Why AAPM&R Created the STEP Ultrasound Program
Because ultrasound training varies considerably, AAPM&R wanted to provide a centralized, standardized method of training for excellence in ultrasound. Our certificate program provides a formal pathway for training for those who are out of residency or don’t have another avenue for developing and honing new skills. Holding the STEP Ultrasound Program Certificate distinguishes you in your field and demonstrates that you are committed to providing top-notch care to your patients.