CDRMS - Cardiac Device Remote Monitoring Specialist

The Cardiac Device Remote Monitoring Specialist (CDRMS) certification validates the knowledge and skills of professionals using Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) to care for patients with cardiac disorders, including cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). The International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners (IBHRE) offers the CDRMS exam, accredited by ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB).

Completion Time: Candidates have 3.5 hours to complete the CCDS exam

Cost:

• First-time Candidates, Early, Member: $730

• First-time Candidates, Early, Non-member: $750

• First-time Candidates, Member: $799

• First-time Candidates, Non-member: $825

• Retake, Early, Member: $700

• Retake, Early, Non-member: $720

• Retake, Member: $780

• Retake, Non-member: $790

Exam Format

The CDRMS exam includes 150 multiple-choice questions and candidates have 3.5 hours to complete it. Exam topics include:

• Rhythm Recognition (38%)

• Device & Lead Function (28%)

• Remote Service Management (14%)

• Device Technology (6%)

Test Dates

The IBHRE offers the CDRMS exam several times a year. IBHRE changes the dates from year to year and lists them on the CDRMS page.

Eligibility

To be eligible to take the CDRMS exam, applicants must have completed at least one of the following requirements:

• An Associate’s degree or higher in the medical field with at least 1 year of experience with CIED remote monitoring in-person evaluation

• At least 2 years of experience with CIED remote monitoring in-person evaluation

• Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES) exam, the  Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) exam, or an equivalent exam, and at least 1 year of experience with CIED remote monitoring in-person evaluation

Applicants must also provide:

• A letter of recommendation from an immediate supervisor, physician supervisor, or colleague on official letterhead confirming the applicant’s:

  • Current position and field of cardiac rhythm management

  • Current or past involvement in Cardiac Pacing, Electrophysiology, or Cardioversion Defibrillation

  • Years of experience

  • Exposure to cardiac rhythm management

• Certificate of completion for training programs, copy of diploma, or certifications

CDRMS credentials are valid for 10 years. After 10 years, CDRMSs must retake the examination to continue certification. To be eligible for renewal, applicants must:

• Complete the exam by the end of the 10th year

• Confirm active involvement in the field of cardiac rhythm management

• Pay renewal fee

Renewal Fees: Based on September 2024 fee schedule. Check the IBHRE website for current fees.

• Renewal, Early, Member: $700

• Renewal, Early, Non-member: $720

• Renewal, Member: $780

• Renewal, Non-member: $790

After 5 years, CDRMSs must complete 45 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in at least 3 different exam content outline areas. The processing fee is $79.

CEUs must be completed and submitted by December 1st of the 5th year of certification. Applicable CEU activities can be in any combination of the following categories:

• Continuing Medical Education (CME) or Continuing Education (CE)

• IBHRE Committee Service

• Lecture/Presentation

• Publications

• College or University Credit

• Industry Training

• Industry Sponsored Education Presentation

For full information, refer to the Verification of CEU policy.

• Computer-Based Testing Tutorials

• Certification Handbook

• Exam Content Outline

• CDRMS Reading List

Other certifications related to electrophysiology include:

• Allied Professionals Certified Cardiac Device Specialist (CCDS)

• Allied Professionals Certified Electrophysiology Specialist (CEPS)

• Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES)

• Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT)

• Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCI)