SDEP® CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
SDEP® Certification recognizes the highest level of competency in the Sonographic Diagnostic Efficiency Protocol® (SDEP®) by evaluating image quality, diagnostic efficiency, and the ability to accurately perform and communicate the SDEP® protocol.
Certification Overview
SDEP® Certification is SonoPath’s highest recognition of clinical sonographic competency. Certification is available in both the SDEP® Abdomen and SDEP® Echo protocols as evidence of a clinician’s ability to consistently acquire diagnostically complete ultrasound studies using the standardized SDEP®.
Certification goes beyond image acquisition alone. Candidates are assessed on their ability to perform efficient, repeatable examinations while producing high-quality still images and cine loops, following the appropriate SDEP® protocol, and demonstrating a thorough understanding of the principles behind each scanning progression.
Following completion of a qualifying SDEP® Hands-On Lab, LIVE Virtual Lab, or equivalent training program, candidates complete both a written examination and a practical performance assessment. Practical examinations are submitted remotely through SonoPath’s Educational Telemedicine® services, allowing participants to continue refining their skills with expert guidance while preparing for certification.
Earning SDEP® Certification demonstrates more than technical proficiency. It signifies a commitment to standardized, diagnostically efficient ultrasound, providing professional recognition of advanced sonographic competency while giving colleagues and clients confidence in the quality of care you provide.
Certification is not intended to be achieved immediately after training. Hands-on education is only the beginning of the journey. Through continued practice, mentorship, and feedback via Educational Telemedicine®, candidates develop the consistency and confidence required to meet SonoPath’s certification standards.
Becoming SDEP® Certified is a commitment to excellence. It reflects the time, dedication, and discipline required to master a standardized approach to diagnostic ultrasound.
Certifications: SDEP® Abdomen & SDEP® Echo
SDEP® Abdomen Certification recognizes clinicians who have demonstrated advanced competency in standardized abdominal ultrasound using the proven SDEP® protocol. Through written and practical assessment, candidates validate their ability to consistently perform efficient, diagnostically complete examinations with high-quality image acquisition and protocol accuracy. Achieving certification provides formal professional recognition of your sonographic expertise while demonstrating a commitment to excellence in patient care.
SDEP® Echo Certification acknowledges clinicians who have mastered a structured, comprehensive approach to cardiac ultrasound through the SDEP® Echo protocol. Certification demonstrates the ability to capture high-quality diagnostic cardiac studies with confidence, consistency, and the precision expected in advanced veterinary echocardiography. Achieving certification provides formal recognition of advanced echocardiographic proficiency while demonstrating a commitment to the highest standard of cardiac imaging.
The Certification Process
Step 1: Prerequisites & Application
Prior to application for certification, applicants must have
- Completed an approved SDEP® Hands-On, LIVE Virtual, or equivalent SDEP® training
- Practiced SDEP® regularly for a minimum of one year
- Been assessed through Educational Telemedicine® submissions (minimum of 10 cases per month for 6 months prior to application)
- Purchase the SDEP® Certification materials (SDEP® Abdomen Certification — SDEP® Echo Certification)
- Note: Stellar candidates may receive an invitation from SonoPath to begin the application process, but if you think you’re ready, we would love to hear from you!
Step 2: Written Exam
Once your application has been approved, you will progress to Certification Candidate status and complete the written examination. The exam assesses your understanding of the SDEP® protocol, probe selection and handling, image optimization, scanning methodology, and the rationale behind the protocol. Candidates are also evaluated on their knowledge of anatomy, pathology, ultrasound terminology, machine optimization, and adapting scanning techniques in a variety of clinical situations for both the SDEP® Abdomen and SDEP® Echo certifications.
Step 3: Practical Exam
After successfully passing the written examination, candidates may begin the practical assessment. The practical exam must be completed within 12 months of your initial certification registration and is designed to demonstrate your ability to consistently perform efficient, diagnostically complete SDEP® examinations in a real clinical setting.
- Candidates must submit three genuine telemedicine patient cases through SonoPath’s Educational Telemedicine® service: one cat, one small-to-medium dog, and one large dog (over 65 lbs)
- Each examination must be completed in 15 minutes or less
Successful completion requires candidates to demonstrate:
- Complete and diagnostically thorough SDEP® Abdomen or SDEP® Echo examinations, depending on the certification pathway
- Efficient scanning technique with high-quality still images and cine loops
- Accurate application of the complete SDEP® protocol, including advanced protocol-specific views, measurements, Doppler assessment (where applicable), and image optimization
- The ability to identify and verbalize key protocol landmarks, methodology, and scanning rationale
- Correct labeling of SDEP® protocol positions
- Further cases and information may be requested at SonoPath’s discretion
Note: Practical examinations are submitted through SonoPath’s Educational Telemedicine® case submission process and are invoiced at the current telemedicine report rate.
Step 4: SDEP® Certification
Congratulations! You have earned your SDEP® Certification. Successful certification formally recognizes your advanced competency in standardized veterinary ultrasound and demonstrates your ability to perform efficient, diagnostically complete examinations using the SDEP® protocol. It also reflects your hospital’s commitment to delivering a consistently high standard of diagnostic imaging, providing colleagues, referring veterinarians, and pet owners with added confidence in the quality of care you provide.
Request Your Application
Ready to take the next step? Complete the form below to check your eligibility and apply for SDEP® Abdomen or SDEP® Echo Certification today!