Phlebologist
A phlebologist is a medically qualified doctor who has undergone further post-graduate training to expertly diagnose, treat and where possible, prevent any form of venous disease, whether it be varicose veins, clotting disorders, vascular birthmarks or leg ulcers. Phlebologists have special expertise in using vascular ultrasound, which assists in the accurate diagnosis and modern management of venous disease. Most procedures performed by phlebologists are ultrasound dependent and phlebologists work closely with vascular sonographers.
Phlebologists must first become qualified doctors by undergoing six or more years of study to gain their medical degrees. This is followed by several years of training in a teaching hospital as a junior hospital doctor and further specialized training is required to gain expertise in this field. Senior phlebologists may have specialist training in other related fields such as Vascular Surgery, Vascular Medicine or Dermatology. The Australasian College of Phlebology has developed a dedicated and comprehensive training program for doctors who wish to specialise in phlebology. The applicants are required to possess a medical degree and registration as a medical practitioner in Australia or New Zealand. They are also required to have completed at least two years of general training in a teaching hospital. The qualified applicants can then progress through the three stages of the ACP training program. The first year of training is the Certificate of Sclerotherapy which upon successful completion of all training requirements and examinations will be able to perform microsclerotherapy and will be certified by the College as Certified Sclerotherapists. The Diploma of Procedural Phlebology follows from the certificate and covers Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy and Endovenous Laser Ablation. The Diploma is a two year course which requires succssful completion of onlinr modules, clinical supervised training, examinations and logbook requirements. The further one year of training is required after successfully completing the Diploma to gain Fellowship with the College. Successful candidates are awarded the title Phlebologist, Fellow of the Australasian College of Phlebology (F.A.C.P.). Many phlebologists travel overseas to further their knowledge and skills through being involved in clinical and experimental research and working alongside their international colleagues. Fellows of the Australasian College of Phlebology must maintain their professional standards through participation in a continuing professional development program that is regulated by the Australasian College of Phlebology.
