The Evolution of Clinical Engineering Certification in Canada

The evolution of clinical engineering certification in Canada started in 1980 with the development of a Canadian Board of Examiners, which used both written and oral examination methods to determine candidates’ eligibility for certification. After an initial burst of activity, the number of applicants coming to the Board slowed down, to the point where the Board effectively ceased to function for an extended period. Renewed interest in the first decade of this century led to a fresh initiative to re-establish the Board. This time, it was decided to twin the activities of the Canadian Board with its United States counterpart, to the extent possible, to try to ensure the sustainability of the Canadian Board. Thanks to support from US colleagues, the new Canadian Board is in place, with a process that is closely aligned with that of the US. The main differences are the need to examine Canadian candidates on codes, standards and regulations that are Canada-specific, and the requirement in each Canadian province or territory for licensure as a professional engineer if the title engineer is to be used. The Canadian and US Boards are both accountable to the Healthcare Technology Certification Commission.