In my experience, becoming a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) enhances one's credibility and potential for professional advancement by demonstrating your dedication to improving the quality, safety, and effectiveness of healthcare technology.
Originally, the certification process in the 1980s had the technical form of an entrance examination and interview for a college masters degree in biomedical engineering. Over the last 25 years, this professional certification has evolved to being focused on a practical, clinically-based body of knowledge in healthcare technology and engineering management and is relevant to the needs of today's helathcare community.
I had of been working as a biomedical engineer at ECRI Institute for 30 years before seeking certification. I wish I had become certified earlier. The process of studying for the written and oral exams examination over about six months and my taking the American College of Clinical Engineering CCE review course were refreshing and worthwhile. I realized that my work experience was valuable and certification was valued by my employer and healthcare professionals.
Certification not only can advance your career, it advances the profession. More than demonstrating management abilities, certification also demonstrates your ability to apply engineering principles to the selection, use, and risk management of medical technology in the clinical setting.
If you are qualified to take the exam based on your education, training, and experience, it is worthwhile for you to strongly consider obtaining your CCE.
Mark E. Bruley, CCE, FACCE, EIT, VP Emeritus, ECRI Institute