BIOMEDEA

Abstract

There is widespread recognition of the need for high quality Biomedical Engineering education, training, accreditation and certification throughout Europe. Many schemes are being developed or are awaiting implementation, but there has been little harmonization. The continuing national differences in the educational systems are a serious problem that can hinder and limit trans-national education, training, employment and cooperation. The BIOMEDEA project aims at changing this situation by establishing Europewide consensus on guidelines for the harmonization, not standardization, of high quality MBES programs, their accreditation and for the training, continuing education and certification or even registration of professionals working in the health care systems. Adherence to these guidelines, which ultimately should be recognized in all 45 Bologna signatory countries, will insure mobility in education and employment as well as proper management of health care technologies, an important aspect with regard to the necessary safety for patients. Targets for the dissemination of results will be the European universities, political decision makers at European and national levels, the European Accreditation Council as well as the accreditation councils of all European countries, European quality assurance and accreditation agencies, health care providers and students.