Study of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Use in Free Clinics and Street Medicine in Indianapolis Evaluating How Ultrasound Affects Patient Care Decisions

What this Trial Is About

This observational study investigates the use and impact of point-of-care ultrasound POCUS in patients receiving care through street medicine or free clinic settings in Indianapolis. It aims to understand how often POCUS is used during patient visits and how it influences medical decision-making in these resource-limited environments. The study focuses on individuals experiencing homelessness or lacking access to traditional healthcare facilities, reflecting a growing need due to the increasing population of people experiencing homelessness. Participants receive clinically indicated POCUS exams during their regular medical care at the street medicine team or Indiana University School of Medicine Student Outreach Clinic. The ultrasounds, performed with portable handheld devices, typically last 2 to 5 minutes and cover various types such as thoracic, cardiac, abdominal, renal, vascular, soft tissue, musculoskeletal, ocular, or obstetricgynecologic imaging depending on symptoms. The study records ultrasound types, findings, and any changes in medical management. A 30-day follow-up is conducted through medical record review or contact to track clinical outcomes and compare POCUS results with formal radiology studies if available. Participants will have their ultrasound encounters documented, including timing and types of studies performed. Researchers will evaluate ultrasound use, agreement between POCUS and radiology results, positive findings, referrals to specialists, changes in care plans, and time spent on ultrasound during visits. The study monitors these outcomes for about one year. This research helps identify barriers to POCUS in free clinic and street medicine settings and aims to inform best practices to improve diagnostic access in underserved populations.

Point-of-care Ultrasound Utility in the Free Clinic Setting