The following message comes from the NBCRNA regarding the proposed recertification exam for CRNAs:
At the AANA Annual Meeting in Boston, the NBCRNA unveiled a draft of the Continued Professional Certification (CPC) program developed over the past three years. The intent of the recertification process is to ensure that the CRNA credential represents an acknowledged commitment to excellence, and continues to distinguish us from others in the field.
The proposal is in draft form. To accommodate major changes to our website, the official comment period for the proposed changes is scheduled to start September 6, 2011 and runs through November 14, 2011. However, many of you already have written us with questions and comments, some supportive, others challenging the need for change, and most simply asking for more information. We have posted answers to the most frequently asked questions at www.nbcrna.com. We welcome your thoughts prior to the official comment date via email at recertification@nbcrna.com.
The NBCRNA understands your concerns about changes to the recertification process and wants to reassure you that the proposed recertification exam will NOT be similar to the rigorous entry level certification exam. The recertification exam will evaluate clinically relevant knowledge in which all certified registered nurse anesthetists must be proficient regardless of their practice setting. These areas include 4 core competencies: airway management, pharmacology, pathophysiology and anesthesia technology. The recertification exam will contribute to ensuring that those who hold a CRNA credential are seen as committed to being the best educated, best prepared workforce possible.
The proposed changes would go into effect in 2015, and the first recertification exam will be available in 2019. Those individuals who are planning to retire by the end of 2023 will not be required to take the recertification examination. To assure constituents fully understand both the goals and specifics of the program as drafted, we will shortly announce a series of web based town hall meetings to give people an additional opportunity to discuss the proposed changes in the Continued Professional Certification program. We look forward to your participation and receiving your input.