Examination of Special Competence in Critical Care Echocardiography (CCEeXAM)

The National Board of Echocardiography (NBE) offers a national level certification in advanced critical care echocardiography (ACCE) called the Examination of Special Competence in Critical Care Echocardiography (CCEeXAM). The CCEeXAM promotes continued excellence in performance and interpretation of cardiac ultrasound. This is a computer-based exam, administered one day in a year at Pearson VUE Professional Centers. The exam registration process is usally in October of every year. The applicants must provide proof that they can practice medicine by submitting MD, DO, MBBS or equivalent qualification.

The CCEeXAM is a specialized examination that evaluates a physician’s expertise in advanced critical care echocardiography. It ensures that practitioners can use bedside echocardiography accurately to diagnose and manage critically ill patients.

To be eligible for the CCEeXAM, candidates must have:

• A valid MD, DO, MBBS, or equivalent medical degree
• Proof of license to practice medicine
• Experience in critical care or echocardiography
• Strong understanding of cardiac physiology and bedside ultrasound

The certification exam is conducted once annually, usually in July–August, with registration typically beginning in October

The exam fee is approximately USD 1200–1500, depending on the NBE guidelines for that year. Additional charges may apply for international testing locations.

The CCEeXAM is ideal for:

• Intensivists and ICU physicians
• Anesthesiologists working in critical care
• Emergency medicine specialists
• Cardiologists wanting formal critical care echo recognition
• Physicians managing hemodynamically unstable patients
• Doctors who want to strengthen their bedside ultrasound skills

Candidates choose the CCEeXAM to:

• Gain recognized expertise in critical care echocardiography
• Improve accuracy in diagnosing shock, cardiac dysfunction, and emergencies
• Strengthen decision-making in ICU patient management
• Boost their professional credibility and career prospects
• Qualify for advanced roles in critical and emergency care units

The CCEeXAM is itself the entrance examination. There is no additional test to qualify before applying.

1. Visit the National Board of Echocardiography website
2. Open the CCEeXAM registration portal when available
3. Create your candidate account
4. Upload degree and license verification documents
5. Pay the required exam fees
6. Book your Pearson VUE exam slot
7. Appear for the exam on the scheduled date

• AIIMS – New Delhi
• Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
• Narayana Health Academy – Bengaluru
• Fortis Critical Care Ultrasound Program
• Apollo Hospitals Critical Care Training Institute

The demand for physicians trained in critical care echocardiography is rapidly increasing. With ICUs becoming more ultrasound-driven, CCEeXAM-certified professionals are valued for their ability to make rapid, accurate clinical decisions using bedside cardiac ultrasound.

Professionals can work in:

• Intensive Care Units
• Emergency Departments
• Cardiology units
• Trauma centers
• Private and corporate hospitals
• International healthcare systems

After completing the CCEeXAM, candidates may pursue:

1. Advanced Critical Care Echocardiography (ACCE) Certification
2. Fellowship in Critical Care Medicine
3. Fellowship in Cardiac Ultrasound
4. Diploma in Emergency & Critical Care Ultrasound
5. ECMO Specialist Certification

• Critical Care Echocardiography Specialist
• ICU Consultant / Intensivist
• Emergency Response Physician
• Trauma Care Specialist
• Clinical Educator in Ultrasound
• Cardiac Ultrasound Consultant