Certification Examinations for Clinical Nephrology Technology & Biomedical Nephrology Technology

New Mandate for Certification

During April 2008, the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a final rule that will modernize the Medicare conditions for coverage for the nation’s dialysis centers and promote higher quality of care for patients receiving dialysis. Among the various qualifying factors that are critical for the patient care technician (PCT) is the mandate that they be certified either by a validated state certification examination or a nationally recognized certification examination. These requirements went into effect on October 15, 2008 and all PCTs must complete these requirements within 18 months of the final rule.

The National Nephrology Certification Organization (NNCO) is uniquely qualified to provide certifications that meet the requirements of the new CMS ruling. The examinations are developed by respected experts in the field and are updated periodically to reflect changes in the industry and current medical requirements. In addition, NNCO has partnered with Professional Testing Corporation (PTC) to ensure its credentialing process is psychometrically sound and meets appropriate standards for professional designation. For more information, visit the PTC website at www.ptcny.com.

About Certification

The National Nephrology Certification Organization (NNCO) endorses the concept of voluntary, periodic certification by examination for all individuals in the field of nephrology technology. Certification is one part of a process called credentialing. It focuses specifically on the individual and is an indication of current competence in a specialized area of practice. Certification in nephrology technology is highly valued and provides formal recognition in the profession of nephrology technology.

Nephrology Certification Examinations

NNCO offers two examinations: the Certification Examination in Clinical Nephrology Technology (CCNT) and the Certification Examination in Biomedical Nephrology Technology (CBNT). Both examinations are administered for NNCO by the Professional Testing Corporation (PTC), New York. Since the beginning of 2009, both examinations are offered at proctored computerized facilities throughout the year in the United States and Canada.