Congenital accreditation is available to all BSE members regardless of occupation. The process tests knowledge of echocardiographers evaluating patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) and is endorsed by the British Congenital Cardiology Association (BCCA). Candidates are required to have Level 2 TTE accreditation prior to undertaking congenital accreditation. A good working knowledge of both unrepaired and repaired CHD across all age ranges is required but with a focus on adult congenital heart disease (ACHD).
The 2 part examination compromises a written paper and a practical assessment. The written paper has 100 True/False questions and 10 video case questions. The practical examination includes the review of a 200 case logbook; a viva session to include 5 video cases; and a practical demonstration of competence in sequential segmental analysis. Candidates working in a DGH are encouraged to liaise with their local surgical congenital centre to allow sufficient exposure to a wide range of CHD.
Further details of the requirements to successfully complete accreditation can be found in the accreditation pack. Accreditation is valid for 5 years.