Pursue a Career in Perfusion

Certification of clinical perfusion

“Medicine is my lawful wife, and literature is my mistress. When I get fed up with one, I spend the night with the other”-Anton Chekhov

Do you think that Perfusion may be the career path for you? This section will highlight the steps needed to accomplish becoming a CCP. We will also cover areas of interest that Perfusion programs seek when reviewing applications. Some individuals want to pursue Perfusion right out of high school or college, while others are making career changes or embarking on their own unique journey. Try not to get discouraged or overwhelmed; we are here to help guide you. Here is a list of recommended and required information:

Finding a program

In the United States, Perfusion programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in collaboration with the Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education (AC-PE). You can search for accredited perfusion programs in the US on the CAAHEP website (https://www.caahep.org/Students/Find-a-Program.aspx).

In Canada, Perfusion programs are accredited by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). You can find a list of accredited perfusion programs in Canada on the CMA website (https://www.cma.ca/accreditation-standards-programs).

For other countries, you may need to check with the relevant accreditation bodies or professional associations to determine the accreditation status of perfusion programs. 

Shadow a Perfusionist

This is one of the most important steps to take. Shadowing a Perfusionist is a perfect way to verify with yourself that you are truly interested in the career. Furthermore, shadowing will provide opportunities to build rapport and gain helpful insight. Shadowing will also leave a strong impression on a Perfusion program application; convincing the committee with first-hand experience will prove that you are seeking more than just a six-figure salary. Contacting a Perfusionist to shadow can prove to be very challenging because their schedules often vary and conflict with everyday life. Nonetheless, do not get discouraged! Our advice is to contact local hospitals in your area. You want to be sure that the hospital you contact performs cardiac surgery. Contact the hospital's main office and ask if you can get in touch with the operating room (O.R.) nursing supervisor. Explain your desire to become a Perfusionist and ask if they will pass along your contact information to one of the staff Perfusionists. Another way to go about shadowing is networking on social media. Sites like 'LinkedIn' offer ways to locate Perfusionists within your area. We encourage you not to be a nuisance when finding a Perfusionist but rather be persistent. This section will be continually updated to provide more opportunities to shadow a Perfusionist. OnBypass.com hopes to have a dedicated contact list of Perfusionists willing to help with your shadowing endeavors. Please check back regularly. 

Visit Perfusion Programs

There are currently 17 accredited programs located in the United States. Each program is unique to class size, prerequisites, dynamic, and offered degree (B.S. or Master's). Generally, the degree obtained is overlooked when applying for a postgraduate position. However, as the field shifts and competition increases, obtaining a higher degree may be in one's best interest. Researching the schools that adhere to your liking is a very good idea. As we stated before, each program is structured differently, and you may find that one program may offer opportunities that others do not. It is also a good idea to contact the program administrative dean, explaining what you're looking for in a program and inquiring about the type of candidate they are looking for.

Complete Prerequisites/Obtain Bachelor's Degree

As we previously mentioned, each Perfusion program may have different requirements for admission. You must inform yourself of the requirements at each institution you plan to apply. All programs require a bachelor’s degree. That being said, a few programs offer a Perfusion Science degree in conjunction with a bachelor's. This option may be viable for individuals wishing to pursue Perfusion after high school. Others may find that they already have a degree or are in the middle of obtaining it and want to pursue Perfusion. Programs that offer a Master's degree or even a bridge to a Master's may be more suited for these individuals.  There are also accelerated 1-year programs offered for individuals who enjoy 'getting thrown into the shark-populated waters'’ These programs are very rigorous and offer a completion certificate that qualifies you to move on just like any other program type.

Complete the Program Application Packet

Most programs require that you have a minimum overall GPA of 2.75. To be a strong applicant, you want to have a GPA above 3.0. You will also want to ensure that most of your prerequisite courses hold a relatively high GPA, ideally above your overall. Many Master's programs require you to take the GRE, so completing an effective study plan is important before the applications are accepted. Another important portion of most applications is the 'Personal Statement'’ Your personal statement is a great opportunity for you to describe your background and captivate the review panel. Programs admire passionate individuals and understand what makes you unique. Your personal statement can also give you an opportunity to describe situations that have made portions of your application appear weak, in turn strengthening those areas. Perfusion schools often also require letters of recommendation. This is why shadowing a perfusionist could benefit this recommendation. Programs generally don't require a letter of recommendation from a perfusionist, but having one will strengthen this portion further. Applicants are reviewed as an 'entire package,' meaning the review panel will look at every aspect of your application and outweigh weak portions of your application with stronger portions. If your application stands out, you will be extended an invitation for a face-to-face interview. Advice on this is simple: dress to impress, be yourself, act professional, and put a smile on.

Get Accepted

Once you have been accepted, you will begin the real journey. It is important to take some time for yourself during the period between acceptance and the first day of school. Celebrate your first major accomplishment in becoming a professional. Clear your mind of any worries and stress, and invest in old hobbies. If you feel really ambitious and can't sit still, contact your program director and ask for the first semester’s syllabus guide. You can get a feel for what subjects you'll be focused on, and some recommended reading will usually be listed. Sit by the pool and skim over some material, don't study for anything; there will be enough of that in the near future.

Graduate From Perfusion School

To graduate from a perfusion school, you need to complete a rigorous program that teaches you the necessary skills and knowledge to become a perfusionist. Perfusion schools typically offer classroom and clinical training, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and extracorporeal circulation courses. You will also learn about the use of perfusion machines and other equipment used during open-heart surgeries and other procedures. To graduate, you will need to complete all required coursework and clinical hours and pass any necessary exams.

Apply For Jobs

Once you have graduated from perfusion school, you can start applying for jobs. Perfusionists work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, and cardiac catheterization labs. Some perfusionists also work as traveling perfusionists, providing services on a temporary basis at different facilities. To apply for jobs, you will need to prepare a resume and cover letter and submit your application to potential employers. You may also need to participate in job interviews and provide references.

Complete 40 Independent Cases/Eligibility to Sit for Board Exam

To be eligible to sit for the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) board exam, you will need to complete a minimum of 40 independent perfusion cases. These cases must be performed under the supervision of a certified perfusionist and must meet certain criteria established by the ABCP. Once you have completed your cases, you can submit your application to sit for the board exam.

Obtain Certification

The ABCP board exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills as a perfusionist. Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded certification as a certified clinical perfusionist (CCP). This certification demonstrates to employers and patients that you have met rigorous standards in your field and is qualified to provide perfusion services.

Maintain Renewal Status of Certification 

To maintain your certification, you will need to meet ongoing requirements established by the ABCP. These requirements may include continuing education courses, professional development activities, and regular renewal of your certification. By staying up-to-date with the latest developments in your field and continuing to hone your skills, you can maintain your status as a certified perfusionist and continue to provide high-quality care to your patients.