General practitioners occupy a central place in the healthcare system.¹ They provide global, continuous follow-up for their patients, including in the field of gynecology². But with growing difficulties in accessing specialists, their role is becoming even more essential. Developing their skills in gynecology-obstetric ultrasound is a direct response to this challenge.

It is with this in mind that InSimo has enriched its high-fidelity ultrasound simulator diSplay U/S with two new curricula dedicated to gynecology and obstetrics.

Dating ultrasound: a fundamental examination at the start of pregnancy

The first new feature focuses on dating ultrasound, performed during the very first weeks of pregnancy.³ This examination makes it possible to confirm gestational age and guide prenatal follow-up. The benefits for the patient are therefore significant.

Yet opportunities to learn how to perform such an ultrasound remain scarce: the endovaginal approach is precise but rarely practiced in training due to the lack of volunteer subjects. With diSplay U/S, simulation-based learning offers the best alternative for the continuing education of healthcare professionals in the fundamentals of ultrasound.

For a general practitioner, mastering this procedure opens up new possibilities. It becomes possible to reassure a patient quickly, to start appropriate follow-up without waiting for a specialist appointment, or to handle particular situations such as a medical abortion, which requires precise dating.

With diSplay U/S, doctors can practice safely, repeat the procedure as often as needed, and acquire a skill that is immediately transferable to their practice. Accessible online and requiring no special equipment, it can turn any connected computer into a virtual ultrasound scanner, with the probe controlled from a smartphone.

Checking IUD position: an everyday skill in high demand

The second curriculum focuses on learning how to check the correct placement of an intrauterine device (IUD). In practice, when a patient reports pain, bleeding or a possible IUD displacement, the answer often requires an appointment with a midwife or a gynecologist — with sometimes very long waiting times.⁴

Being able to carry out this verification directly during a GP consultation represents a real time-saver and, above all, a source of reassurance for patients. Thanks to diSplay U/S, general practitioners can learn this procedure gradually and safely before integrating it into their practice.

Image: checking IUD placement with diSplay U/S, InSimo

A dual impact: for patients and for practitioners

Training general practitioners in gynecology-obstetric ultrasound is not only about acquiring a new technical skill. It is also a concrete response to medically underserved areas and to the excessively long waiting times to see a specialist. For patients, it means faster access to examinations, less anxiety and more local care. For practitioners, it’s an opportunity to gain autonomy, enhance their practice with confidence and ensure better continuity of care.

By integrating these new curricula, diSplay U/S stands out as a practical and realistic tool, perfectly suited to field needs. It helps to strengthen the pivotal role of the general practitioner in women’s health. Because quality healthcare starts with proximity and accessibility, the simulator is a valuable lever for transforming daily practice — serving both physicians and their patients.

To go even further, diSplay U/S also offers a curriculum dedicated to the diagnosis of endometriosis, along with other modules: lung, kidney, urinary tract, and breast ultrasound, as well as the FAST emergency examination.

References

¹French Ministry of Labour, Health, Solidarity and Families. (2015). The place and role of General Practice in the healthcare system. Prof. Pierre-Louis Druais.

²National Council of the French Medical Association. (2008, June 26). General Medicine Reference Framework: Reference document for the use of CNOM qualification commissions.

³French Health Insurance – Ameli. (2025). Pregnancy: the follow-up program and the first consultation.

⁴France Inter. (2024, April 23). General practitioner, dentist, dermatologist…: our map of waiting times by specialty and by department. L’info from France Inter.

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In general practice, clinical ultrasound performed directly by the physician during consultation is increasingly becoming a natural extension of the physical examination. It provides rapid diagnostic or follow-up information to confirm or rule out a hypothesis, guide patient management, or decide on referral to a specialist (Société Nationale d’Échographie en Médecine Générale [SNECHO-MG], 2025).

Portable ultrasound devices now represent an ideal solution: compact, user-friendly, and significantly less expensive than fixed machines, they integrate easily into daily practice, whether in the clinic or during home visits. Recent technological advances and probe miniaturization have made these devices more efficient and accessible, even for practices with limited resources (Andersen et al., 2019; GE Healthcare, 2023).

This article reviews five of the most affordable ultraportable ultrasound models currently on the market, with their features, strengths, and limitations.

What is an ultraportable ultrasound scanner?

An ultraportable ultrasound scanner is a medical imaging device designed to be used directly at the point of care, with maximum mobility. Unlike traditional stationary ultrasound machines, which are installed in dedicated rooms, and portable ultrasound machines (often the size of a small computer or compact case), ultraportable models fit in the hand and connect directly to a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

How to choose an ultraportable ultrasound device?

The choice of an ultraportable ultrasound depends primarily on your clinical needs. Check image quality and the variety of available modes (2D, Doppler, etc.), depending on the exams you perform. Ensure that connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, iOS/Android/PC compatibility) fit seamlessly into your work environment. Compare usability (ergonomics, intuitive interface), battery life, and probe durability. Finally, consider the overall cost, which often includes a software or cloud subscription for secure archiving and image sharing.

1. echOpen O1

Price

• €980 excl. VAT for the probe

• Digital service subscription: €300 excl. VAT/year (required for archiving and updates)

Best suited for

First-time investment; GPs, emergency physicians, nurses, or midwives seeking a simple, reliable, and quick everyday tool.

Strengths

• Three integrated frequencies (3.5 – 5 – 7.5 MHz) in a single probe, for different types of examinations

• Long battery life, suitable for mobile and prolonged use

• Made in France, supported by AP-HP

• Designed specifically for clinical ultrasound

• Simple, intuitive interface, quick to master even for beginners

• Can explore key anatomical regions: thorax, abdomen, pelvis

• Lightweight, compact, and durable, easy to carry

Limites

• No Doppler mode, restricting vascular and hemodynamic assessment

• Image quality adequate but below high-end models

• Less suitable for advanced cardiology, obstetric imaging, or neonatal pediatrics

• Limited software features (no AI or advanced tools)

• Dependence on digital service for updates and archiving

Source: https://www.echopen.com/

2. White-label probes

Price

• Around €2,800 incl. VAT (varies by distributor)

Best suited for

Practitioners with a limited budget who can accept restricted technical support and features. Suitable for beginners or occasional use.

Strengths

• Widely available from multiple distributors

• Good price-performance ratio for basic ultrasound

• Simple connectivity (USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)

• Compatible with most Android/iOS smartphones and tablets

• Wide choice of probes (convex, linear, dual-head) depending on supplier

Limitations

• Limited or absent customer support

• Few or no software updates

• Image quality adequate but variable, generally below major brands

• Reliability and durability dependent on supplier

• Limited warranty and archiving security options

3. Butterfly iQ+

Price

• Around €2,900 incl. VAT for the probe

• Mandatory Butterfly Membership:

  • Standard annual: ~€400 incl. VAT/year

  • Lifetime: ~€1,000 incl. VAT one-time

Best suited for

Physicians seeking a versatile, compact probe suitable for mobile consultations, emergency care, or general practice.

Strengths

• Single multi-frequency probe covering thorax, abdomen, pelvis, basic cardiac exams, etc.

• Compatible with iOS and Android

• Adequate image quality for most clinical uses

• Compact and lightweight

• Intuitive interface with dedicated app for guidance and secure storage

Limitations

• Less performant than the iQ3 generation for specialized exams

• Limited battery autonomy

• Dependence on app and subscription for advanced functions and archiving

• Some software features require additional fees or subscription

Source: https://www.butterflynetwork.com/

4. Clarius C3 HD3

Price

• Around €2,900 incl. VAT for the probe

• Mandatory Clarius Membership:

  • Standard annual: ~€575 incl. VAT/year

  • Lifetime: ~€1,000 incl. VAT one-time

Best suited for

Professionals seeking a high-performance, reliable portable ultrasound, ideal for dynamic and mobile clinical environments.

Strengths

• HD image quality with AI for optimal resolution

• Smooth, intuitive dedicated app (iOS/Android)

• Robust and waterproof (IPX7), suitable for intensive use

• Wireless connectivity for full mobility

• Secure archiving via Clarius Cloud, DICOM compliant

Limitations

• Higher price than some competitors

• Some advanced features require subscription

• Limited autonomy for prolonged intensive use

Source: https://clarius.com/

5. Sonoscanner U-Lite PRO

Price

• Price on request

Best suited for

Practitioners seeking reliable, French-made equipment with quality after-sales support.

Strengths

• Made in France

• Robust device with good autonomy

• Simple, intuitive interface

• Connectivity for tablets and smartphones: the ultrasound card located in the tablet provides optimal image quality combined with numerous features normally reserved for stationary ultrasound scanners

• Adequate image quality for routine exams

• Responsive French customer support

• Doppler (Colour, Transcranial, Energy, etc.) and AI features (Auto LVEF, Auto bladder, Auto flow, Auto IMT)

Limitations

• Less compact than other ultraportable models

• Less suitable for very intensive use

Source: https://www.sonoscanner.com/

References

Aakjær Andersen, C., Brodersen, J., Rudbæk, T. R., & Jensen, M. B. (2021). Patients’ experiences of the use of point-of-care ultrasound in general practice – a cross-sectional study. BMC Family Practice, 22, 116. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-021-01459-z

Andersen, C. A., Holden, S., Vela, J., Rathleff, M. S., & Jensen, M. B. (2019). Point-of-care ultrasound in general practice: A systematic review. Annals of Family Medicine, 17(1), 61–69. https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.2330

GE Healthcare. (2023, 13 novembre). L’échographie en soins primaires : innover pour les médecins généralistes. Consulté sur https://www.gehealthcare.com/insights/article/primary-care-ultrasound-innovating-care-for-general-practitioners

Société Nationale d’Echographie en Médecine Générale (SNECHO-MG) – Aubertin, L., Aujoulat, P., Bouquet, S., Buron, S., Chabardes, A., Chauvin, B., Cibois-Honnorat, I., Dambor, A., De Bandt, D., Hagiu, D.-P., Leboucher, O., & Skendi, M. (2025). Harmonisation de l’échographie clinique ciblée en médecine générale : Développement de fiches pratiques standardisées [Poster]. Congrès de la Médecine Générale France 2025. https://posters.congresmg.fr/2025/pdf/57.pdf

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As demand for ultrasound training continues to grow, InSimo, a company specializing in high-fidelity simulation software for medical and surgical training and the Federal Association for Physicians Training (A2FM), dedicated to medical education, are proud to announce the launch of a new  Bladder and Prostate ultrasound training module, complementing the existing Renal ultrasound module.

This new module, featuring a dozen simulated clinical cases, expands a comprehensive catalogue of hands-on ultrasound training, for independent learning without any specific equipment, thanks to diSplay U/S online ultrasound simulator.

Is ultrasound the stethoscope of tomorrow?

Since 1998, the WHO recommends integrating ultrasound training in medical school curricula, highlighting its importance in improving access to care and enhancing clinical diagnosis¹.

In several countries such as Denmark, Germany, the United States and Canada, general practitioners have been performing ultrasound exams for years, and a growing body of scientific literature demonstrates its benefits².

Clinical ultrasound is increasingly popular among general practitioners due to its many advantages: non-invasive, low cost, directly at the patient’s bedside. It enhances physical examination, improves diagnostic accuracy, and brings added value to clinical practice.

The development of clinical ultrasound also offers a practical response to the growing number of medical deserts, often lacking imaging facilities. Training general practitioners in this technique helps speed up diagnosis and improve patient care, especially in underserved areas. This contributes to relieving pressure on the healthcare system while improving access to care.

Better ultrasound training through medical simulation

To address this growing need for clinical ultrasound training, Insimo has developed the high-fidelity simulator diSplay U/S. This online platform turn any connected computer into a virtual ultrasound machine, meeting current educational needs.

Simulator-based training offers numerous advantages. It gives healthcare professional the flexibility to train at their own pace, through hands-on practice in a standardized environment. They can explore a wide range of healthy and pathological patient cases and repeat procedures as often as needed.

Developing ultrasound skills on diSplay U/S directly addresses the current challenges of medical education: reflexive practice-based practice, independent, with no risk for patients.

A new module for Renal and Bladder & Prostate ultrasound training

InSimo and A2FM have combined their technical, educational and medical expertise to co-develop a comprehensive training module on Renal, Urinary Tract and Prostate ultrasound for general practitioners, accessible via the diSplay U/S simulator.

2 modules, 30 exercises 

• Clinical renal ultrasound

  • 8 clinical cases to learn how to perform renal ultrasound and identify common pathologies: renal cyst, pyelocaliceal dilatation, abscesses, renal tumors, kidney stones, angiomyolipoma

  • 10 patient cases to apply new knowledge, capture your own ultrasound images, and compare diagnoses with A2FM expert interpretations

• Bladder and prostate ultrasound – NEW

  • 6 clinical cases to learn how to perform bladder and prostate ultrasound and identify common pathologies: prostate hypertrophy, ureterovesical junction stones, bladder polyps, highly suspicious bladder polyps

  • 6 patient cases for self-guided practice, allowing users to acquire images and make diagnoses independently

Eligible for FAF-PM Funding

This ultrasound training for kidney, urinary tract and prostate on the diSplay U/S simulator – which completes the A2FM training catalogue for general practitioners – is eligible for FAF-PM (Fonds d’Actions de Formation – Professions Médicales) : the official organization managing continuing Medical Education for liberal practitioners.

Sources

• • ¹ https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/42236/9342208752-fre.pdf

  • ² https://www.larevuedupraticien.fr/article/echographie-clinique-ciblee

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Clinical ultrasound is gradually establishing itself as an extension of the physical examination. It enables general practitioners to better orientate their diagnosis, gain in autonomy and reduce unnecessary recourse to radiology. In France, however, its adoption remains slow, unlike in other European countries. What are the obstacles to its spread? And how can training become a lever for sustainable adoption?

Multiple obstacles to the integration of clinical ultrasound

A vague regulatory and financial framework

In France, clinical ultrasound is neither clearly defined nor recognized in the nomenclature.

It is not systematically recognized as a GP skill, which limits its integration into daily practice.

Economic and organizational obstacles

Even if the devices have become more affordable, their cost remains an obstacle for many practices.

Moreover, the time required to integrate ultrasound into a standard consultation is not always compatible with general practitioners’ work schedules.

Lack of initial and continuing training

The main obstacle is the lack of structured training. The majority of GPs were not trained in ultrasound during their studies, and continuing training opportunities are often ad hoc, non-certifying or ill-suited to the context of general practice. As the poster presented at the Congrès de la Médecine Générale France 2025 points out:

“The absence of mandatory university training in clinical ultrasound is perceived as a major obstacle by the practitioners surveyed” (Feraudet et al., 2025).

More widespread use in other parts of Europe

Several European countries have taken important steps towards the democratization of clinical ultrasound:

• Switzerland: Over 50% of general practitioners use ultrasound on a daily basis, thanks to a recognized training program and a well-established culture of use (Kuhn et al., 2020).

• Germany: Training is integrated into the medical curriculum, with ultrasound procedures financially rewarded.

• Denmark: Clinical ultrasound is taught as part of a training course and used by almost a third of general practitioners.

• Spain: Regional efforts have resulted in better-equipped health centers, with growing interest in on-site training.

These models show that a coherent policy, combining training, regulatory framework and material support, enables wider and faster adoption.

Ultrasound training for primary care

Clinical ultrasound is not intended to replace full radiological examinations. Its value is based on simple and frequent indications in general medicine: looking for urinary retention, confirming a suspicious image of cholecystitis, spotting a pleural effusion, etc.

Hybrid, practical and targeted training

To be useful and safe, this practice must be learned within a structured framework, including :

• supervised practical workshops to learn the right gestures ;

• contextualized clinical cases to develop reasoning skills ;

• and complementary digital tools, adapted to the pace and constraints of doctors in the field.

A number of studies have shown that GPs have a strong need for training that is accessible, practical and integrated into their practice.
Recent initiatives in this direction include practical teaching tools designed by and for general practitioners:

“The creation of standardized practice sheets, validated by expert consensus, aims to harmonize targeted clinical ultrasound practices in general practice” (Aubertin et al., 2025).

diSplay U/S: an innovative learning simulator

Among the tools available, the diSplay U/S simulator offers a realistic solution for learning clinical ultrasound without the need for special equipment. This online simulator offers:

• interactive healthy and pathological clinical cases based on real-life situations;

• progressive training in image reading and analysis;

• hands-on learning and total accessibility, from any connected computer.

It enables doctors to practice on their own, reinforcing their visual reference points and gaining confidence, even before they have access to a real ultrasound scanner. It’s an invaluable complement to face-to-face training, promoting a smooth, gradual build-up of skills.

References

• • Société Nationale d’Echographie en Médecine Générale (SNECHO-MG) – Aubertin, L., Aujoulat, P., Bouquet, S., Buron, S., Chabardes, A., Chauvin, B., Cibois-Honnorat, I., Dambor, A., De Bandt, D., Hagiu, D.-P., Leboucher, O., & Skendi, M. (2025). Harmonisation de l’échographie clinique ciblée en médecine générale : Développement de fiches pratiques standardisées [Poster]. Congrès de la Médecine Générale France 2025.
    https://posters.congresmg.fr/2025/pdf/57.pdf

  • Feraudet, I., Liard, R., Ibanez, G., Juillet, C., Andersen, C., Bach, M., & Skendi, M. (2025). L’utilisation de l’échographie clinique ciblée par les médecins généralistes en 2023 et son rôle dans la prise en charge des patients [Poster]. Congrès de la Médecine Générale France 2025. https://posters.congresmg.fr/2025/pdf/39.pdf

• • • Kuhn, A., & Dejours, C. (2020). Use of point-of-care ultrasound by general practitioners in Switzerland: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Family Practice, 21(1).

    • OMS (1998). L’échographie : Manuel d’utilisation à l’intention du personnel de santé dans les soins primaires. Genève.

    • Robert, A. (2023). L’échographie clinique ciblée : une extension de l’examen physique. Revue du Praticien.

    • Bornemann, P. et al. (2019). Assessment of primary care physicians’ use of ultrasonography as a decision-making tool. Annals of Family Medicine.

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