A biomedical engineering technologist or biomedical equipment technician (BMET) is one who is knowledgeable in the theory of operation, the underlying physiological principles, and the safe clinical application of biomedical equipment.
The biomedical engineering technician applies electrical, electronic, mechanical, chemical, optical, and other engineering principles to perform maintenance service, repairs and overhaul of all medical equipment and medical systems. Examples of equipment may include imaging, hemodialysis, physiological monitoring systems; EKG's, EEG's, physical therapy, lasers, sterilizers, dental equipment, etc. Due to the diversity of the equipment specialization is sometimes required.
The field of biomedical engineering is the application of engineering techniques in the solution of medical problems. The profession is interdisciplinary and combines technology and the life sciences.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The responsibilities of a BMET may include
installation, calibration, inspection, preventive maintenance, and repair of
biomedical and related technical equipment. Additional responsibilities may
include operation of equipment, equipment control and safety. In research
facilities, BMETs may also be involved in the modification of equipment.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Most BMETs are employed by hospitals,
clinics, research labs, medical equipment manufacturers, and service
organizations. The starting salary range for an entry-level position is about
$25,000 -$30,000 and varies from region to region.
PREPARATION
The requirement to become a BMET is generally the
completion of a 2-year BMET program leading to an Associate of Science (AS)
degree from an accredited institution. All accredited institutions that offer
an AS in BME provide instruction in both engineering technology (traditionally
electrical engineering and computer engineering) and the life sciences
(specifically human anatomy & physiology). In addition, BMETs need
effective oral and written communication skills. To be effective, BMETs must
know the relevant codes and standards that apply to both biomedical equipment
and to healthcare facilities.
RELATED PROFESSIONALS
A Clinical Engineer is a professional
who supports and advances patient care by applying engineering and management
skills to healthcare technology. Clinical Engineers manage personnel, finances,
instrumentation and projects to promote the safe and cost-effective application
of technology. Such a person while having an administrative function also
participates professionally with physicians, nurses, administrators, and other
personnel of a healthcare facility. The preparation requires at least a 4-year
degree (Bachelor of Science) in engineering with significant knowledge in
physiology, medicine, and clinical care of patients. Clinical Engineers are
heads of most clinical/biomedical engineering departments of healthcare
facilities. Clinical Engineers who work in a healthcare facility are sometimes
also referred to as Biomedical Engineers.
A Biomedical Engineer applies electrical, mechanical, chemical, optical, and other engineering principles to understand, modify, or control biologic (i.e., human and animal) systems, as well as design and manufacture products that can monitor physiologic functions and assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. The Biomedical Engineer usually works in a corporate or university setting in the design and development of devices applicable to living organisms. The preparation requires at least a 4-year degree (Bachelor of Science), although most Biomedical Engineers in university settings hold a post-graduate degree.
Jr. BMET: Biomedical Equipment Technician I
An entry-level or
junior BMET. Works under close supervision. Performs skilled work on preventive
maintenance, repair, safety testing, and recording functional test data. Not
certified. Usually has less than four years of experience.
BMET: Biomedical Equipment Technician II
A BMET who usually
has an AS (2-year) degree or higher and several years of related or equivalent
experience. Has good knowledge of schematics and works independently on
repairs, safety testing and preventive maintenance (PM). Maintains records,
writes reports, and coordinates outside repairs. Average experience is eight
years.
Sr. BMET: Biomedical Equipment Technician III
A highly
experienced or specialized BMET usually having an AS (2-year) degree or higher.
Has substantial experience and may be certified (CBET). Does highly skilled
work of considerable difficulty. Has comprehensive knowledge of practices,
procedures, and types of equipment. Average experience is twelve years.
Equipment Specialist: Lab Equipment Specialist (LES) or Radiology
Equipment Specialist (RES)
A highly specialized BMET having special
training, or equivalent experience in lab equipment (LES) or radiology
equipment (RES). Usually has an AS (2-year) degree or higher. Performs highly
skilled work of considerable difficulty and many hold certifications as CLES or
CRES.
BMET Supervisor
A BMET who supervisors others. Has a
significant amount of training or education or equivalent experience. Most have
a BS (4-year) degree or higher. Schedules and assigns work to subordinates, but
also continues to do highly skilled repairs. Has comprehensive knowledge of
practices, procedures, and types of equipment. Average experience is thirteen
years.
Clinical Engineer
A graduate engineer holding a BS, MS or PhD.
Performs engineering-level work of considerable difficulty. Has the ability to
modify devices, and do analysis of devices and systems.
Director/Department Manager
Most are educated or experiences
as clinical engineers (CE) or BMETs, but others may be trained in
administration or business or have extensive healthcare supervisory experience.
Most have a significant amount of technical or management experience, and have
the skills to select high-tech equipment, and acquire, maintain, and repair
equipment. Supervisors BMETs, CEs and support personnel. May also be the Chief
Technology Officer or Vice President for Healthcare Technology.
The above was taken from:
Journal of Clinical Engineering
American
College of Clinical Engineering
Clinical Engineering Division; Walter
Reed Army Medical Center