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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 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.
For a current listing of some job openings, go to BMEnet. Graduates and students of Gateway Community-Technical College can get more information here for a listing of job openings referred to the institution.
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. Go to the EDUCATION link for more information. 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 whose focus is the ability to competently apply engineering principles to health care delivery. 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 is one whose professional focus is on the design and development of medical devices; and one who utilizes engineering principles and methods in the solution of problems in biology and medicine. 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 A.S. (2-year) degree or higher and several years of 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 A.S. (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 a A.S. (2-year) degree or higher. Performs highly skilled work of considerable difficulty and many hold certification 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, types of equipment. Average experience is thirteen years.
Clinical Engineer
A graduate engineer holding a BS, MS or PhD. Can perform 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 the Jounal of Clinical Engineering.
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