Top 10 Endoscopy Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for endoscopy technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a technician’s knowledge and proficiency in their field. Employers often prefer to hire individuals who have earned professional certifications as it shows that they have taken the time to gain additional education and training specific to endoscopy technology. Certified technicians are also more likely to be kept up-to-date on the latest advances in endoscopy technology, which can help them provide better patient care. Furthermore, certification may qualify technicians for higher salaries or even promotions within their current organization.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Endoscopy Technicians, and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are Endoscopy Technician Certifications?

Endoscopy technician certification is a specialized credential that verifies an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform endoscopy procedures. Endoscopy is a medical procedure used to diagnose, treat, and monitor diseases of the digestive system. A certified endoscopy technician performs tasks such as patient preparation, instrument set-up and maintenance, sedation monitoring, and assisting physicians during the procedure.

Having this certification can help technicians advance their career in the field by demonstrating their commitment to professional development and mastery of endoscopy techniques. Certification allows employers to easily identify qualified candidates for open positions. It also provides a way for technicians to stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or looking for promotions within their current role. Having endoscopy technician certification also helps ensure that patients receive safe and quality care from knowledgeable professionals who are up-to-date on the latest best practices in the field.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for endoscopy technician certification in your state before applying. Different states have different regulations and requirements that must be met in order to receive certification. Additionally, some states may require additional training or certifications beyond the standard endoscopy technician certification.

Related: What does an Endoscopy Technician do?

Top 10 Endoscopy Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Endoscopy Technician (CET)

A Certified Endoscopy Technician (CET) is a healthcare professional who has been trained and certified to assist in endoscopic procedures. Endoscopy is a medical procedure that uses an endoscope, which is a long, thin tube with a camera and light on the end, to look inside the body for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The CET assists in preparing the patient for the procedure, setting up equipment and instruments, providing patient care during the procedure, and helping with post-procedure cleanup.

It typically takes between six months and one year of study to become certified as a CET. To get certified as a CET, you must first complete an accredited program in endoscopy technology. After completing your program, you must pass an exam administered by either the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Once you have passed your exam, you will receive your certification from either NBSTSA or CBSPD.

The cost of becoming certified as a CET varies depending on where you take your courses and how much time it takes to complete them. Generally speaking, most programs cost between $2,000-$5,000 depending on the length of training required. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the certification exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if you are taking it at an offsite location.

2. Certified Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Technician (CGEST)

Certified Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Technician (CGEST) is a certification offered by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in endoscopic procedures. The CGEST certification is available to those who have completed an approved training program and successfully passed the written and practical examinations.

It typically takes two years of full-time experience as an endoscopy technician to be eligible for the CGEST certification. During this time, technicians must demonstrate their knowledge and skill in performing endoscopic procedures, such as colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, upper gastrointestinal studies, and biopsies. In addition, they must complete an approved training program or coursework in endoscopic technology.

To obtain the CGEST certification, applicants must pass both a written exam and a practical exam administered by ASGE. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract, patient preparation and positioning during endoscopic procedures, instrumentation used during endoscopic procedures, patient safety protocols during endoscopic procedures, infection control practices during endoscopic procedures, and post-procedure care. The practical exam requires technicians to demonstrate their ability to perform various tasks related to endoscopic procedures.

The cost of obtaining the CGEST certification varies depending on the type of training program or coursework taken prior to taking the exams. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on how much preparation is needed before taking the exams.

3. Registered Endoscopy Technician (RET)

A Registered Endoscopy Technician (RET) is a medical professional who specializes in endoscopy procedures. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat diseases of the digestive system, such as ulcers, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease. RETs are responsible for preparing the patient for endoscopic procedures, setting up and operating endoscopic equipment, assisting the physician during the procedure, and providing post-procedure care.

In order to become an RET, individuals must complete an accredited program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. The length of these programs vary but typically take between one to two years to complete. Upon completion of the program, individuals must pass a certification exam administered by either the National Board of Certification for Endoscopy Technicians or the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in order to become certified.

The cost of becoming an RET varies depending on which program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000-$5,000 depending on the length and type of program you choose. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the certification exam such as registration fees or study materials costs.

4. Advanced Endoscopy Technician (AET)

Advanced Endoscopy Technician (AET) is a specialized medical professional who assists physicians in performing endoscopic procedures. AETs are responsible for preparing and maintaining the equipment, as well as providing patient care during and after the procedure. They may also be involved in the recovery process following an endoscopic procedure.

The requirements to become an AET vary by state, but typically include completing a two-year associate's degree program or equivalent training program in endoscopy technology. The program should include courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, and clinical laboratory techniques. In addition, some states require certification through either the American Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (ASGNA) or the National Board of Endoscopy Technicians (NBET).

The cost of becoming an AET will vary depending on the type of program you choose to pursue. Most programs cost between $5,000-$15,000 for tuition and fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with certification exams or other related expenses.

Overall, it takes approximately two years to complete all of the necessary education and training required to become an AET.

5. Certified GI/Endoscopy Nurse (CGEN)

A Certified GI/Endoscopy Nurse (CGEN) is a registered nurse who has specialized training and experience in providing care to patients undergoing endoscopic procedures. The certification is offered by the American Society for Gastroenterology Nurses (ASGN).

To become a CGEN, you must have at least two years of experience in endoscopy nursing, have completed an approved course in endoscopy nursing, and hold a valid RN license. You will also need to pass an exam administered by ASGN.

The exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient safety and infection control, pre-procedure assessment and preparation, intra-procedure management, post-procedure care and complications management. The exam fee is $325 USD.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. Once you successfully complete the exam and become certified as a CGEN, you will be required to renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

6. Certified Surgical Technologist – Endoscopic Procedures (CST-EP)

A Certified Surgical Technologist – Endoscopic Procedures (CST-EP) is a specialty certification for surgical technologists who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in endoscopic procedures. This certification is offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

To become a CST-EP, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a current Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential from the NBSTSA or an equivalent organization
• Have at least two years of full-time experience as a CST in the specialty area of endoscopy
• Complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education related to endoscopy within the past three years
• Pass an examination administered by the NBSTSA that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, instrumentation, patient safety, infection control, and endoscopic procedures.

The cost to take the exam is $200 USD. The exam can be taken at any Prometric Testing Center. It takes approximately two hours to complete. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your CST-EP credential within four weeks.

7. Certified Gastroenterology Technician (CGT)

A Certified Gastroenterology Technician (CGT) is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. CGTs are responsible for performing diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and other procedures related to the digestive system. They also assist physicians in treating patients with gastrointestinal diseases and conditions.

It typically takes about two years to become a Certified Gastroenterology Technician (CGT). To become certified, individuals must complete an accredited program in gastroenterology technology or a related field and pass the certification exam administered by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE).

Individuals interested in becoming a Certified Gastroenterology Technician can find accredited programs at colleges and universities across the country. Many of these programs offer online courses, allowing students to complete their studies from home.

The cost of becoming a Certified Gastroenterology Technician varies depending on the institution offering the program. Tuition fees can range from $2,000 to $20,000 depending on the length of the program and other associated costs. Additionally, applicants must pay for their certification exam fee which is usually around $200-$300.

8. Certified Colonoscopy Technician (CCT)

A Certified Colonoscopy Technician (CCT) is a healthcare professional who has completed specialized training in the performance of colonoscopies. Colonoscopies are a type of endoscopic procedure used to diagnose and treat diseases of the large intestine, such as colorectal cancer and polyps. The CCT assists the doctor or nurse practitioner during the procedure by preparing the patient for the exam, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, setting up instruments and supplies, assisting with patient positioning, monitoring vital signs, and other tasks.

The certification process typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, individuals must complete an approved training program that includes classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience in performing colonoscopies. After completing the program, individuals must pass a certification exam administered by either the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) or the National Board of Certification for Colonoscopy Technicians (NBCCT).

To become certified as a CCT, you must have at least one year of experience in endoscopic procedures prior to enrolling in an approved training program. Additionally, you must be licensed or certified in your state as a medical assistant or nurse assistant prior to taking the certification exam.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which organization administers the exam. For example, if you take it through ASGE then it will cost $400 plus any additional fees associated with taking their coursework. If you take it through NBCCT then it will cost $250 plus any additional fees associated with taking their coursework.

9. Certified Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Technician (CFST)

A Certified Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Technician (CFST) is a healthcare professional who has received specialized training and certification in performing flexible sigmoidoscopies. A flexible sigmoidoscopy is an endoscopic procedure used to examine the lower part of the large intestine, including the rectum and sigmoid colon. During this procedure, a thin, lighted tube is inserted into the anus and maneuvered through the rectum and sigmoid colon in order to detect any abnormalities or potential health issues.

In order to become a CFST, one must complete an approved training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program typically takes between 8-12 weeks to complete and can be found at many community colleges or technical schools. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the certification exam administered by either the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) or the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST).

The cost of becoming a CFST varies depending on where you take your training course. Generally speaking, tuition for these courses range from $2,000-$4,000. In addition to tuition costs, there may also be additional fees associated with taking the certification exam such as registration fees and study materials.

Once certified as a CFST, individuals are expected to maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every two years in order to stay up-to-date on changes in technology and safety protocols related to flexible sigmoidoscopies.

10. Certified Upper GI Endoscopy Technician (CUET).

Certified Upper GI Endoscopy Technician (CUET) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who assist in performing upper gastrointestinal endoscopies. The CUET program is administered by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE).

The CUET program consists of a two-part examination: a written component and an on-site practical component. The written component is composed of multiple choice questions that must be completed within three hours. The practical component requires the candidate to demonstrate proficiency in endoscopic procedures, patient care, and safety protocols.

To obtain the CUET certification, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include completion of an accredited training program or equivalent experience in endoscopy, as well as passing both parts of the exam with a minimum score of 75%. Candidates must also have current certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).

The cost for taking the CUET exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This includes fees for both parts of the exam as well as any associated materials such as study guides or practice tests.

In terms of time commitment, most candidates spend several weeks preparing for both parts of the exam before they are ready to take it. The actual length of time needed to complete each part will vary depending on how much preparation each individual needs before taking it.

Do You Really Need a Endoscopy Technician Certificate?

An endoscopy technician certificate is typically necessary for an individual to become a successful and knowledgeable medical technician in the field of endoscopy. This type of certification shows that the individual has taken the time to learn about the technical aspects of endoscopy, has mastered the skills required to perform this type of medical procedure, and has passed necessary exams to demonstrate competency in this area.

The endoscopy technician certificate is designed to provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of endoscopy procedures, including setting up and operating special equipment used during the procedure, following safety protocols, assessing patient conditions before and after treatment, and recording findings. It includes instruction on how to properly handle instruments used during endoscopic exams, as well as how to interpret results. In addition, this certification may also include training on anatomy and physiology related to endoscopic examinations.

Without an endoscopy technician certificate, individuals may find it difficult or impossible to gain employment in this field. Certification provides employers with assurance that their employees are trained in all aspects of endoscopy operations and can safely perform these procedures. Furthermore, certification may also provide additional opportunities for career advancement or higher salaries than those without such credentials.

In conclusion, obtaining an endoscopy technician certificate is essential for anyone seeking employment or career advancement in this field. With proper training and certification, individuals can ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in this important role within healthcare.

Related: Endoscopy Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Endoscopy Technician Certifications

1. How do I become an endoscopy technician?

Answer: To become an endoscopy technician, you must complete a formal training program and successfully pass the necessary certification examinations.

2. What kind of certification is required to work as an endoscopy technician?

Answer: Endoscopy technicians must be certified by either the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming an endoscopy technician?

Answer: Yes, most programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as some medical background knowledge. Additionally, some programs may require a minimum number of college credits in science courses.

4. How long does it take to become certified as an endoscopy technician?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the individual and their level of experience and education prior to enrolling in a training program. Generally speaking, it takes from six months to one year to complete the necessary coursework and exams required for certification.

5. What are the benefits of being certified as an endoscopy technician?

Answer: Certified technicians have access to more job opportunities with higher wages than non-certified technicians, since employers prefer certified individuals when hiring new employees. Additionally, having a certification can help technicians build credibility within their field and demonstrate their commitment to professional development and patient safety standards.