Illinois Department of Professional Regulation Approves Perfusion Licensure

Springfield, IL – The Illinois Department of Professional Regulation today announced the availability of licensing applications for perfusionists. Perfusionists are individuals who are trained in operating cardiopulmonary bypass equipment and, under the supervision of a physician, monitor the conditions of a patient undergoing bypass surgery.

Applications are available via the Internet at http://www.dpr.state.il.us/WHO/pfusion.asp, by calling 217-782-8556, or by writing to:

Department of Professional Regulation
ATTN: Forms Unit
320 W. Washington St.
Springfield, Illinois 62786
Fax: 217-557-8073

Perfusionists may be eligible for a license based on experience if they apply before Nov. 1, 2002, and submit:

Proof of experience as attested to by either three cardiovascular surgeons certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, or three perfusionists certified by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion who acted in a supervisory capacity;

Proof the applicant has completed a minimum of 200 cardiopulmonary bypass cases within a five year period between Jan. 1, 1991, and Jan. 1, 2000, at licensed healthcare facilities; and,

A complete work history since Jan. 1, 1991.

Individuals applying for a license after Nov. 1, and those who do not meet the experience requirements to grandfather, must submit evidence they graduated from a school accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (or a similar accrediting body approved by the Department), and must successfully complete an examination provided by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.