Training programs and courses in biomedical instrumentation (sometimes called bioinstrumentation) cover the repair, maintenance and operation of electronic medical equipment. Although autonomous programs in this field are not common, biomedical instrumentation can also be studied within other related programs. For example, at the certificate level, potential students can find biomedical electronic technology certificates and biomedical electronics certificates.
Training in biomedical instrumentation can also be found within the associate degree programs in biomedical equipment technology or electronic technology. Courses within these programs often include hands-on training, and credits can be transferred to a bachelor's degree program. There are also some biomedical engineering degree programs that include a concentration or track in biomedical instrumentation for students who wish to learn more about the design and development of electronic medical equipment. Online programs are usually available at the partner level and above.
Training in biomedical instrumentation is often found as part of electronic engineering technology or biomedical electronic technology programs. Due to the practical nature of the repair field, distance learning is generally not available at the certificate level. Typically, these 1 to 2 semester certificate programs require applicants to have graduated from high school. Some certificate programs are designed to train associate degree holders who have some experience in the electrical field in medical terminology and the application of electrical knowledge to the biomedical field.
Prospective biomedical instrumentation technicians learn how the application of electronic equipment - such as monitoring devices - to the medical field affects health professionals and patient care. Learning to repair medical malfunctions may require training in:
• AC and DC circuits
• Digital signal processing
• Fundamentals of Robotics
• Structure of the human body
• Test equipment