Top 10 Biomedical Equipment Technician Certifications

Certifications for a biomedical equipment technician are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certified technicians have proven their abilities through rigorous testing and continuing education. In addition, certifications provide a baseline of quality assurance to employers, who can rest assured that certified technicians have the necessary skills to perform the job safely and accurately. Finally, certifications may also open up certain career opportunities or advancement within an organization.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Biomedical Equipment Technicians and explains how they can contribute to a biomedical equipment technician's career.

What are Biomedical Equipment Technician Certifications?

Biomedical equipment technician certification is a specialized type of certification that certifies an individual's knowledge and skills in the maintenance, repair, and installation of medical equipment. This certification ensures that technicians have the required knowledge and experience to properly maintain and troubleshoot complex medical devices. It also provides employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals who can provide reliable service.

The certification process involves passing an exam administered by a recognized organization such as the International Certification Commission for Biomedical Equipment Technicians (ICC-BET). The exam covers topics such as safety procedures, electrical principles, basic electronics, digital electronics, networking protocols, and other technical concepts related to biomedical equipment. In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also complete a period of supervised on-the-job training in order to obtain their certification.

Having biomedical equipment technician certification can be beneficial for both individuals and employers. For individuals, it is a way to demonstrate their expertise in this field and show potential employers that they are knowledgeable in this area. For employers, it is a way to ensure that they hire qualified technicians who can provide reliable service. Additionally, having certified technicians on staff may help reduce liability issues since they are trained professionals who know how to safely work with medical equipment.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing biomedical equipment technician certification, make sure to research the specific requirements of the certification you are interested in. Many certifications require that you have a certain level of experience and/or education in order to be eligible for the certification. Additionally, some certifications may require additional training or exams to maintain your certification status.

Related: What does a Biomedical Equipment Technician do?

Top 10 Biomedical Equipment Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Biomedical Equipment Technicians today.

1. Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET)

A Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET) is a professional who has been trained and certified to repair, maintain, and calibrate medical equipment. CBETs are responsible for ensuring that all medical equipment is functioning properly and safely. They inspect, test, troubleshoot, and repair a variety of medical devices such as defibrillators, ventilators, patient monitors, infusion pumps, and imaging systems.

It typically takes between two and four years to become a CBET. During this time, individuals must complete an accredited program in biomedical equipment technology or electronics engineering technology. Once the educational requirements have been met, individuals can apply to take the certification exam offered by the International Certification Commission (ICC).

The cost of becoming a CBET varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience. The ICC exam fee is $250 USD for members of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), or $350 USD for non-members. In addition to this fee, individuals may be required to pay additional costs associated with their chosen program such as tuition fees or textbooks.

Overall, becoming a CBET requires dedication and commitment but can lead to rewarding career opportunities in healthcare technology management.

2. Certified Clinical Engineering Technologist (CCET)

A Certified Clinical Engineering Technologist (CCET) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of those who work in the field of clinical engineering. The CCET certification is awarded by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology (ICC-CET). This certification is designed to demonstrate a high level of competency in the areas of safety, quality assurance, maintenance, and management of medical equipment.

It typically takes about two years to obtain this certification. To qualify for the CCET exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in clinical engineering or biomedical technology, as well as a bachelor's degree in science or engineering from an accredited college or university. Additionally, applicants must complete an approved course in clinical engineering or biomedical technology prior to taking the exam.

The cost for taking the CCET exam depends on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 to take the exam at a testing center and around $400 if you choose to take it online.

Once you have passed the exam and become certified, you will be required to renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education courses related to clinical engineering and biomedical technology.

3. Certified Medical Equipment Technician (CMET)

Certified Medical Equipment Technician (CMET) is a professional certification awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the maintenance, installation, repair, and calibration of medical equipment. This certification is offered by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).

To become certified as a CMET, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Generally, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with medical equipment or a related field. They must also complete an approved training program in medical equipment technology or hold an equivalent degree.

The CMET exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that are designed to measure the applicant’s knowledge and skills in medical equipment technology. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $400 USD. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must submit proof of their educational background and experience.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their CMET certification from AAMI. The certification is valid for three years before it must be renewed. Renewal requires completion of continuing education credits every year or retaking the exam every three years.

4. Certified Healthcare Technology Manager (CHTM)

Certified Healthcare Technology Manager (CHTM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management of healthcare technology. The CHTM certification is offered by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university and have at least five years of full-time experience in healthcare technology management. In addition, applicants must pass an examination administered by ACHE.

The CHTM examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as healthcare technology systems, project management, information security, and data analytics. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $350 for ACHE members and $450 for non-members.

Applicants who successfully pass the exam will receive their CHTM certification within two weeks after passing the exam. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

5. Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES)

A Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES) is a professional who has been certified by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) and is responsible for the installation, maintenance, operation, repair and safety of medical imaging equipment. This certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in radiology technology and at least one year of experience in medical imaging equipment.

The process to become a CRES takes approximately three months to complete. The first step is to submit an application to the ASRT along with proof of experience and education requirements. After the application has been approved, applicants must take an online exam that covers topics such as radiation safety, medical imaging equipment, patient care and more. Once the exam is successfully completed, applicants will receive their CRES certification.

The cost to become a CRES varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$500 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

Overall, becoming a Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist is an excellent way for radiologic technologists to demonstrate their expertise in medical imaging equipment and further their career opportunities.

6. Registered Medical Instrument Technician (RMIT)

Registered Medical Instrument Technician (RMIT) is a certification program for medical instrument technicians. It is offered by the International Association of Medical Instrumentation (IAM). The program is designed to provide a standardized level of knowledge and skills to individuals working in the field of medical instrumentation.

The RMIT program consists of three main components: an online learning course, a practical exam, and a written examination. The online learning course covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, sterilization techniques, instrument care and maintenance, and patient safety. The practical exam tests hands-on skills related to medical instruments. The written examination covers knowledge related to medical instruments and their use in clinical settings.

In order to become certified as an RMIT, individuals must complete all three components of the program within two years from the start date of the course. Individuals are also required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years.

The cost for the RMIT program varies depending on the provider chosen; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD including all materials required for completion.

7. Certified Laboratory Equipment Technician (CLEC)

A Certified Laboratory Equipment Technician (CLEC) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the maintenance, repair, and calibration of laboratory equipment. It is designed for individuals who work with laboratory equipment on a daily basis, such as laboratory technicians, biomedical engineers, and other professionals in the healthcare industry.

The CLEC certification is offered through the International Certification Board (ICB). To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with laboratory equipment and pass an online exam. The exam covers topics such as safety procedures, troubleshooting techniques, preventative maintenance protocols, and electrical principles.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, it typically costs around $200 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CLEC certification within 4-6 weeks.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also complete 8 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their certification status. This can be done by attending workshops or taking online courses related to laboratory equipment maintenance and repair.

8. American Society for Clinical Pathology Certification in Medical Laboratory Technology (ASCP-MLT)

The American Society for Clinical Pathology Certification in Medical Laboratory Technology (ASCP-MLT) is a professional certification granted by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in medical laboratory technology. The certification demonstrates that the individual has met the standards established by ASCP and is qualified to practice as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT).

In order to become certified, an individual must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having completed a program accredited by either the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), or having at least one year of full-time experience as an MLT within the past five years. Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for certification through ASCP.

The application process includes submitting an application form, providing proof of eligibility, and passing a written examination. The examination covers topics such as clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology, microbiology, and urinalysis. The exam is administered online and takes approximately four hours to complete. Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their certification from ASCP.

The cost of obtaining ASCP-MLT certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an ASCP member. For non-members, the cost is $235 plus applicable taxes and fees; for members it is $185 plus applicable taxes and fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the examination such as registration fees and other related expenses.

9. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Biomedical Electronics Technician Certification (NICET-BETC)

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Biomedical Electronics Technician Certification (NICET-BETC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of those who work in the field of biomedical electronics. This certification is offered by NICET, an independent, non-profit organization that provides certifications for engineering technology professionals.

The NICET-BETC certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as electrical safety, medical device troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. The certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years.

To obtain the NICET-BETC certification, applicants must first meet the prerequisites of having at least two years of full-time experience working with biomedical equipment or completing a related educational program. Applicants are then required to take an exam which consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as electrical safety, medical device troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their NICET-BETC certification.

The cost of obtaining the NICET-BETC certification varies depending on factors such as whether or not you are a member of NICET or if you are taking additional courses. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 USD to obtain this certification.

10. Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation Biomedical Equipment Technician Certification Program (AAMI-BMETCP).

The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation Biomedical Equipment Technician Certification Program (AAMI-BMETCP) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the professional development of biomedical equipment technicians. The program is based on a set of standards developed by AAMI that define the minimum qualifications necessary for competent performance in the field.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of medical equipment. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and typically takes two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience working as a biomedical equipment technician or related field. Applicants must also provide proof of completion of an accredited training program or equivalent experience in the field.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$400. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 that must be paid prior to taking the exam.

Once certified, individuals are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Biomedical Equipment Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals. If you are interested in a career as a biomedical equipment technician, then the short answer is yes, you do need a biomedical equipment technician certificate. This certification is important because it demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly install, maintain, and repair medical equipment. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire technicians who have this certification as it shows that they are qualified for the position and have taken the time to learn about the field.

That being said, there may be some instances where a biomedical equipment technician certificate is not required. For example, if you already have experience working with medical devices or if you have an associate’s degree in a related field such as electronics or engineering technology, then you may not need the certificate. However, if you are just starting out in this field or if you want to pursue higher-level positions within it, then having the certificate can be beneficial. It can also help set you apart from other applicants when applying for jobs and show potential employers that you take your career seriously.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a biomedical equipment technician certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. If this is something that interests you then it would be worth researching more into what type of certifications are available and how they could benefit your career aspirations.

Related: Biomedical Equipment Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Biomedical Equipment Technician Certifications

1. What is a Biomedical Equipment Technician Certification?

Answer: A Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET) certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the maintenance, repair, calibration, and installation of medical equipment.

2. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a BMET?

Answer: To be eligible for certification, individuals must have at least two years of full-time experience working with medical equipment and have completed an accredited program in biomedical technology or related field.

3. How can I find out more information about BMET certifications?

Answer: The International Certification Commission (ICC) is the leading organization for BMET certifications and provides comprehensive information on all aspects of their program including eligibility requirements, exam details, and renewal processes. Additional information can also be found through professional organizations such as the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).

4. Are there continuing education requirements to maintain my BMET certification?

Answer: Yes, ICC requires that all certified BMETs complete 10 hours of continuing education every two years in order to remain certified and up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.

5. How much does it cost to obtain a BMET certification?

Answer: The initial fee for taking the ICC examination is $400 USD plus any applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with completing any necessary pre-examination courses or training programs prior to taking the exam.