Ultrasonography in General Practice: Insights From an Implementation Study in a Low‐Income Neighborhood of Amsterdam

ABSTRACT Background Ultrasonography is increasingly being used in primary care settings, facilitated by technological advancements, reduced device‐related costs, and improved access to training and support. It holds particular promise for underserved communities, where barriers such as co‐pays or long waiting lists can limit access to diagnostic services. This study evaluates the impact of a primary care ultrasonography service in an underserved urban community. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients who underwent ultrasonography between 2019 and 2024 at a large primary care center ( n = 7877) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The primary outcomes included the frequency, indications, and diagnostic outcomes. Secondary outcomes included diagnostic accuracy, changes in clinical decision‐making and referral rates, which were compared with three large primary care centers in adjacent neighborhoods ( n = 23,189). Results A total of 394 patients were included in our primary care ultrasonography service, which involved 40.9% of all diagnostic ultrasounds ordered by our GPs; of whom 62.4% underwent abdominal ultrasonography, 31.7% gynecological ultrasonography, and 5.8% other types of ultrasounds. Ultrasonography yielded conclusive results in 83.5% of cases. The sensitivity and specificity of these ultrasounds for relevant abnormalities were 97.9% (95% CI: 92.5%–99.7%) and 89.8% (95% CI: 85.3%–93.4%), respectively. Conclusion Primary care ultrasonography enhances diagnostic efficiency and reduces the number of direct referrals for ultrasound. Its use in underserved communities can improve healthcare access and help address system‐related diagnostic health disparities. Further research is needed to assess its cost‐effectiveness and scalability.