Economic and Regional Disparities in Critical Care Ultrasound Training, Equipment Access, and Implementation Barriers in China: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey

The authors aimed to evaluate the utilization, training, and barriers to critical care ultrasound (CCUS) among ICU clinicians across economically diverse regions in China. They found that while training coverage was similar in high- and low-GDP areas, significant disparities existed in self-assessed proficiency and equipment availability, with major barriers including insufficient expert support and challenges in image interpretation. The study concludes that structured training can enhance CCUS usage and expertise, highlighting the need for policies that promote equitable access to training and resources across all regions.