RDMS - RMSKS - Registered Musculoskeletal Sonographer (ARDMS)

The RMSKS certification is a specialized credential for sonographers focusing on musculoskeletal sonography. It demonstrates expertise in using sonographic imaging to evaluate musculoskeletal disorders, such as injuries and diseases of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints.

Cost: The MSKS exam fee is $275, includes processing fee $100 (non-refundable). There is an additional $50 non-refundable fee if you schedule your exam outside of the United States, Canada or Mexico. The fee for the SPI exam is $250.

Examination Details

The RMSKS exam assesses knowledge and skills in musculoskeletal sonography, including anatomy, pathology, joint evaluations, and sonographic techniques.

The format is 170 multiple-choice computer-based test.

Detailed content outlines and sample questions are usually available on the ARDMS website to aid in preparation.

Eligibility Requirements

• Prerequisite Education: A minimum educational requirement must be met, such as an accredited program in sonography, radiology, or a related field. Specific requirements vary and can include degrees or relevant clinical experience.

• Clinical Experience: Candidates must have documented clinical experience in musculoskeletal sonography. The specific hours and types of experience required can vary.

• ARDMS General Prerequisites: Fulfillment of ARDMS’s general prerequisites, which may include professional references and clinical documentation.

To earn the RMSKS credential, you must meet the examination requirements​ and pass two comprehensive examinations within five years:

• Physics Examination: Sonography Principles & Instrumentation (SPI) and

• MSKS Examination: Musculoskeletal Sonographer (MSKS)

Application Process

• Verify eligibility based on ARDMS requirements.

• Submit an application for the RMSKS certification exam through the ARDMS website.

• Pay the associated application and examination fees.

RDMS renewal costs $105 annually. Renewal due on December 31 of each calendar year.

First reinstatement opportunity:

• $105 renewal fee + $150 administrative fee.

• Must be completed by February 28 of the calendar year

Final reinstatement opportunity:

• $105 renewal fee + $300 administrative fee.

Must be completed by August 1 of the calendar year

Sonographers are required to participate in the ARDMS’s Continuing Medical Education (CME) program to ensure ongoing competence. Specific CME requirements for RMSKS can be found on the ARDMS website.

RDMS-RMSKS requires 30 Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours every three years to maintain certification.

Opportunities for professional growth may include advanced clinical roles, education, research, or cross-specialization in other sonography fields.

For specific information regarding the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RMSKS) certification, including detailed application processes, examination content, and guidelines for maintaining certification, it is recommended to consult directly with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). ARDMS provides comprehensive resources, standards, and guidelines for professionals in the field of diagnostic medical sonography.

MSKS Content Outline

RMSKS certified professionals work in various clinical settings, including hospitals, clinics, sports medicine facilities, and private practices. They perform diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasounds and collaborate with healthcare providers to diagnose and manage musculoskeletal conditions.

The ARDMS also offers the following certifications:

• RDMS - Abdomen (AB)

• RDMS - Breast (BR)

• RDMS - Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB-GYN)

• RDMS: Pediatric Sonography (RDMS-PS)

• RVT Vascular Technology (RVT-VT)

• RDCS: Pediatric Echocardiography (RDCS-PE)

• Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI)