Clinical Engineering Bank

There are two organizations that produce two different type of certifications for clinical engineering professionals.

• The first certification concerns the Clinical Engineers (CE) and the certification is Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) 
• While the second certification concerns the Biomedical Equipment Technicians (BMET) and there are three different certifications:
  

• Certified Biomedical Equipment Technicians (CBET),
• Radiology Equipment Specialists (CRES), and
• Laboratory Equipment Specialists (CLES).

Although these certifications are not mandatory but would be beneficial for the biomedical professionals to have as the certification is well recognized and preferred by most of the institutions to have.

Certification is essential and a mark of distinction in any professions (e.g. certified public accountants (CPAs), teacher certification, lawyer specialty certification, board certification of physicians, certified quality engineers (CQEs) and board certified healthcare architects). It demonstrates that the certified individual has the knowledge and experience of the subject and recognition of professional excellence by peers.

Licensing is currently not available in clinical engineering. Some clinical engineers pursue a Professional Engineering (PE) license through their primary (bachelors) engineering degree e.g. electrical or mechanical engineering. Some efforts have been reported in starting licensing in the broader field of biomedical engineering but to date it is not available. However, Clinical engineering certification is available. 

The Certification Program plays a vital role in the clinical engineering profession. Ensuring

the Program’s ability to contribute to the long term growth and success of the profession was paramount for the Commission.

The Commission consulted broadly in its work to arrive at the new structure including:

1. Direct communication with all individuals currently certified under the Commission;

2. An open letter to the broader clinical engineering community; and

3. Numerous meetings with key stakeholder organizations including: AAMI, ACCE and ASHE.

The Commission worked closely with the US and Canadian Clinical Engineering Boards of Examiners to ensure that all aspects of the Program’s operation were considered. "ACCE Site"

What is certification?

ICC Certification for the Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET) is a formal recognition by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology (ICC) that individuals have demonstrated excellence in theoretical as well as practical knowledge of the principles of biomedical equipment technology.

Purpose of certification

In today's healthcare market, technology is paramount. The need for a workforce knowledgeable in the theory of operation, underlying physiological principles, and safe application of biomedical equipment is a central concern of many hospitals and companies. Certification demonstrates that successful applicants have the knowledge to ensure a safe, reliable healthcare environment. It also demonstrates to employers a significant commitment to career and competence.

Types of certification

The Board of Examiners for Biomedical Equipment Technicians, operating under the direction of the United States Certification Commission (USCC) and the ICC, maintains the certification programs for 

• Biomedical Equipment Technicians (CBET),
• Radiology Equipment Specialists (CRES), and 
• Laboratory Equipment Specialists (CLES).
  

One certification is not a prerequisite for another. Each certification — CBET, CRES, CLES — requires a separate, complete application and a separate examination. Applicants may test in only one discipline per testing window. "AAMI Site"