CDRMS - Cardiac Device Remote Monitoring Specialist

  • Cost: $730-$825
  • Renews every 10 years

COURSE FORMAT

In Person

About

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).

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

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

Course Format

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.

In Person

Applicants register for the exam after receiving a confirmation email from IBHRE.

  • Go to the Prometric website

  • Click on “Schedule my Test” then “Next”

  • Enter the Eligibility ID (or IBHRE Customer ID#) and the first 4 letters of last name, then click “Next”

  • Enter the location and hit “Search” to find a Prometric testing center

  • Click “Schedule an Appointment” next to the testing center location

  • Hit “Find Available Seats” on the day of choice then “Go”

  • Click the time wanted and “Next”

  • Enter registration information, email, and phone number, then hit “Next”

  • Click “Complete your Appointment” to confirm

Exam Day Instructions

  • Arrive at the testing center 30 minutes before exam time

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID and an electronic or hard copy of the scheduling permit

  • Store personal items in provided lockers

    • Food and drinks aren’t allowed in the testing room

  • Take the software tutorial before the exam

  • Examinees are allowed a total of 15 minutes of break time during the exam

Test results are available 12 weeks after the test. IBHRE sends an email with instructions for retrieving the score.

Certification

Application Process

Applicants can apply on the IBHRE website during the scheduled registration period. Paper applications are available upon request.

Applicants can pay by check, American Express, Visa, or MasterCard. They should make checks payable to the International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners or IBHRE.

Once IBHRE accepts a candidate’s application, they receive a confirmation notice within 4 weeks. Between 4 and 6 weeks after registration closes, candidates receive information about scheduling the CDRMS exam.

Renewal

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

  • Renewal, Early, Member: $700

  • Renewal, Early, Non-member: $720

  • Renewal, Member: $780

  • Renewal, Non-member: $790

Continuing Education

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.

Other Resources

Related Certifications

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 (CCT)

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Frequently asked questions

Can I cancel the CDRMS exam after I have already scheduled it?

Yes, CDRMS examinees must submit cancellation requests in writing, and IBHRE withholds an $85 processing fee for any cancellation requests. IBHRE withholds $325 if the request is received 6 weeks before the exam date and $525 if the request is received 4 weeks before the exam date. If the cancellation request is received 2 weeks before the exam date, IBHRE won’t give a refund.

Do I have to retake the test to certify the CDRMS?

Yes, retaking the CDRMS examination is the only option for recertification.

When is the last day I can schedule the CDRMS exam?

The last day you can schedule the CDRMS is 2 days before the exam date. You’re strongly encouraged to schedule the exam at least 30 days before the exam date.

What if I don’t pass the CDRMS?

If you don’t pass the CDRMS exam, IBHRE provides a score report to identify areas for further study. There’s no limit on the number of times candidates can retake the exam. Applicants must pay the retake fee of $745 for members or $769 for non-members.

Is the CDRMS exam hard?

Like any certification exam, the CDRMS exam is difficult without proper preparation. In 2021, the exam had a 77.8% pass rate; out of 72 examinees, 56 passed.

What other certifications does the IBHRE offer besides the CDRMS?

The International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners (IBHRE) also offers the following:

  • Certified Cardiac Device Specialist (CCDS)

  • Certified Electrophysiology Specialist (CEPS)

What organization offers the CDRMS?

The International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners (IBHRE) offers the CDRMS.