Cloud-Based Teleradiology and POCUS Training in Yemen's Complex Humanitarian Emergency

Description

This dataset contains quantitative performance and evaluation data from a point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) training program implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic in Yemen’s complex humanitarian emergency. The program aimed to strengthen local healthcare capacity by training physicians to use a novel cloud-based, teleradiology-supported POCUS system. The training initiative incorporated handheld ultrasound devices, cloud-based image storage, and a digital quality assurance platform supported by The Butterfly Network. Instructional content was adapted from the open-access curriculum developed by Global Ultrasound Institute and delivered virtually with real-time image review and remote mentorship. The program was conducted across three clinical cohorts: Obstetrics, Trauma, and Pediatrics. We hypothesized that after graduating, the trainees would demonstrate increased diagnostic confidence, produce digitally relevant ultrasound scans, and achieve higher exam scores. The dataset includes descriptive quantitative metrics extracted from the cloud-based quality assurance system and training assessments. Key variables include: • Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) scores • Post-test examination scores • Scan performance metrics (e.g., image quality, diagnostic accuracy, clinical relevance) • Self-reported confidence survey responses following clinical POCUS use • Cohort classification (obstetrics, trauma, pediatrics) The dataset reflects measurable improvements in: • Trainee physician competence (OSCE and post-test scores) • Clinical scan quality and diagnostic utility • Self-reported confidence in POCUS application • Skill retention over time Despite pandemic-related disruptions to traditional in-person education, results indicate enhanced trainee confidence, improved clinical impact, and sustained competency development through remote mentorship and digital quality assurance systems.

Steps to reproduce

1. POCUS Devices Clinicians were provided point-of-care ultrasound devices supplied by The Butterfly Network. These devices were shipped from Los Angeles, USA to Hadhramaut, Yemen via Egypt. 2. Satellite internet Connectivity Satellite internet was set up for the first time at the selected sites to allow free access to cloud-based platforms to securely upload ultrasound images for storage and review. 3. Digitized Quality Assurance System A digital quality assurance (QA) platform was supported by the Butterfly Network that allowed submitted images to be evaluated systematically. 4. Real-Time Feedback Mechanism A workflow was created in which clinicians submitted ultrasound scans through the cloud system and received timely expert feedback. 5. Curriculum The open-access curriculum from Global Ultrasound Institute was used and the content was adapted to align with local clinical needs and resource availability. 6. Virtual Training Sessions Entirely virtual teaching sessions were conducted using the adapted curriculum. 7. Live Image Review During training sessions, real-time ultrasound image review was integrated to reinforce learning and improve scanning technique. 8. Trainee Performance and Ongoing QA Uploaded scans were evaluated through the QA system and structured feedback was provided to ensure competency development. 9. Data Extraction and Analysis Device usage, image submission rates, feedback turnaround times, and scan performance metrics were tracked to assess the effectiveness of the training program.

Institutions

• University of Toronto

  Ontario, Toronto

Categories

Funders

• Grand Challenges Canada

  Grant ID: HGC-POC-2007-35142

Licence