Leesburg, VA - The Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) is partnering with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in the development and administration of the SIIM Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) program. SIIM launched development of the certification program in 2005 and the first exam is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2007.

Both SIIM and ARRT recognize the advantages to the Imaging Informatics Administration (IIA) profession of a collaboration between the two organizations, with each contributing its unique expertise and resources. SIIM brings a wealth of content-specific expertise, while ARRT has extensive experience in the policies and procedures of certification.

"SIIM is pleased that ARRT is joining the process of imaging informatics professional certification as a true partner in this SIIM endeavor," said Richard L. Morin, PhD, former SIIM/SCAR Chair, Certification Committee member, and Brooks-Hollern Professor in Diagnostic Radiology at the Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville. "ARRT brings to the partnership an established and well-respected reputation in the area of certification and in addition has had decades of experience in the blueprint formulation and logistical execution of a certification program."

"ARRT is excited to work with SIIM to advance the profession with a credential for imaging informatics administrators," noted Michael DelVecchio, BS, RT(R), an ARRT Trustee and Technical Director of Radiology at Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston. "Combining ARRT's certification expertise with SIIM's integral knowledge of imaging informatics will provide a valuable service to the entire healthcare community."

SIIM recognizes the need for an independent governance structure and plans to establish a governance structure that is consistent with the requirements of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). ARRT will have representation on the governance board for IIA certification.

The SIIM CIIP certification program represents a true merging of the medical (clinical) and corporate (IT) models into one comprehensive exam, and will provide a certification appropriate for both R.T. and IT professionals. SIIM anticipates an expedited process in exam development now that the partnership is in place.

About SIIM/SCAR

The Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (formerly the Society for Computer Applications in Radiology) is devoted to the advancement of computer applications and information technology in medical imaging through education and research. SIIM provides an open environment for imaging information professionals to access expert and cutting-edge resources on the electronic practice in a collegial, practical atmosphere. For more information: www.scarnet.org.

About ARRT

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists promotes high standards of patient care by recognizing individuals qualified in medical imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, ARRT evaluates, certifies, and annually registers more than a quarter-of-a-million radiologic technologists across the United States.

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