Credentialing of the Cardiac Sonographer: The Need for Unification

Abstract

Credentialing is a process in which a candidate submits to an examination established by a recognized board of examiners. If the candidate fulfills the standards established by the board, the candidate is then permitted to use a given title. For example, radiologic technologists complete a given course of study. After graduation these individuals are permitted to use the title radiologic technologist (RT) after their name. Once these individuals successfully complete the examination offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists they are permitted the title ofRT(R), where the final R indicates registered. . In many cases a candidate's involvement in the examination and credentialing process is not mandated by law and is therefore voluntary. Gaining the credential-generally enhances the individual's professional status and provides a higher salary premium. In the case of radiologic technology there is a unified credentialing board. It acts independently but with the support of many technologist and physician groups interested in the credentialing process. The credentialing process must be differentiated from the accreditation process. Accreditation refers to the certification of training programs, not individuals. For most allied health professionals, accreditation of training programs is provided by the American Medical Association (AMA) Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation. This is a complex process in which interested professional societies define an allied health profession and petition the AMA for recognition. Once recognized, an independent body referred to as a Joint Review Committee (JRC) is established. Interested societies adopt documents of essentials and guidelines by which the JRC approves educational programs. Professional societies are generally meant to define