The primary certification credential in perfusion is the Certified Clinical Perfusionist. This has become the standard in the field, and has become a requirement for the majority of organizations who employ perfusionists. The certification examination is administered by a wholly independent organization. Established in 1975, ABCP has no organizational ties or relationships with any other group, or entity.

The eligibility requirement to sit for the CCP certification examination includes one stating that the applicant must be a graduate of an accredited perfusion training program. This requirement underscores the importance of obtaining perfusion training through a recognized program, rather than from an alternative source, e.g., on-the-job training.

Perfusionists normally begin the process of earning certification immediately upon graduating from perfusion school. The profession's standard maintained by accredited institutions is that perfusionists will actively gain certification within two years after graduation. If after five years after graduation, certification and continuing education is not achieved, then the person should return for remedial training at an accredited institution. A failure to do so reflects poorly upon the professional's standards and continuing education, and opens up a myriad of legal liabilities for the employing institution.

Once the CCP has been received, the ABCP has rigorous continuing education requirements that must be met. The CCP is conferred for a period of three years, during which time a specified number of approved CME credits must be earned in order to be recertified.

For more information concerning Perfusion and credentialing, please visit The American Society of Extra-Corporeal Technology.