The landscape of point-of-care testing (POCT) is constantly evolving, demanding specialized knowledge and skills from professionals in the field. The Aacc Point Of Care Specialist Certificate Program is meticulously designed to equip POCT coordinators and specialists with the expertise needed to excel in this critical role. This comprehensive online program, offered through ADLM’s advanced learning platform, provides a robust curriculum focused on standardized best practices and the latest industry updates.
This program, updated in 2014 to reflect contemporary practices, delivers invaluable insights applicable to POCT personnel both within the United States and internationally. It serves as an exceptional professional development opportunity, enriching the knowledge base of individuals overseeing POCT programs and validating their practical experience.
Who Should Enroll in the AACC Point of Care Specialist Certificate Program?
The aacc point of care specialist certificate program is specifically tailored for working professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in point-of-care testing. Ideal candidates include:
- Lab Supervisors
- Lab Directors and Assistant Directors
- Lab Managers (both supervisory and non-supervisory)
- Point-of-Care Coordinators
This program is your gateway to becoming a recognized expert in POCT, enhancing your career prospects and contributing significantly to the efficiency and accuracy of point-of-care services within your healthcare setting.
Comprehensive Learning Objectives of the Program
Upon completion of the aacc point of care specialist certificate program, participants will achieve a thorough understanding of critical aspects of POCT, including:
- Regulatory Compliance and Standards: Gain a clear understanding of regulations, accreditation processes, industry standards, and essential guidelines governing POCT.
- Quality Testing Processes: Master the three crucial phases of testing – preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical – alongside quality improvement methodologies and vital safety protocols.
- Policy and Procedure Development: Learn to differentiate between policies, processes, and procedures, and acquire skills in document development, approval workflows, document control, and the critical importance of standardized procedures in POCT.
- Instrumentation Selection and Validation: Explore various classes of point-of-care instruments, understand key principles for informed instrument selection, and learn the essential requirements for rigorous system validation.
- Connectivity and IT Integration: Delve into device and host communication, system setup, logistical considerations for connectivity in billing processes, different interface types, and cutting-edge wireless technologies like infrared and radiofrequency.
- Effective Education and Training Programs: Discover how to design impactful training programs catering to diverse learning styles, explore educational tools, understand regulations overseeing education, and master competency assessments and outcome measurement.
- Program Oversight and Administration: Understand the framework for effective oversight and control of POCT processes, define leadership roles, and integrate crucial safety knowledge into POCT program administration.
- Communication Strategies in POCT: Examine the vital role of communication in POCT programs, explore diverse communication and leadership styles, define effective speaking and listening attributes, and identify essential communication tools for POCT coordination.
Curriculum and Renowned Faculty
The aacc point of care specialist certificate program is structured into eight comprehensive courses, each designed to be completed online within approximately 1-2 hours. Each course features engaging lectures, informative slides and transcripts, and knowledge-testing quizzes. The program culminates in a comprehensive 50-question multiple-choice final exam and provides access to valuable downloadable resources.
The curriculum is led by a distinguished faculty of experts in the field of point-of-care testing:
- POC Regulations: Christine Cursio, MLT, BS, POCT Manager, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- POC Quality Management: Marcia Zucker, PhD, Independent Consultant, ZIVD LLC., New Jersey, USA
- POC Policies and Procedures: Bill Hankins, Point of Care Coordinator, Danville Regional Medical Center, Virginia, USA
- POC Instrument Selection and Validation: Marcia Zucker, PhD
- POC Connectivity and IT: Diane Davis, MT(ASCP)SH, Core Lab and POCT Manager, All Children’s Hospital, Florida, USA
- POC Education and Training: Victor French, CLS Supervisor/POC, KFH Modesto Medical Center, California, USA
- POC Administration: LouAnn Wyer, MS, MT(ASCP), Laboratory Director, Sentara Healthcare, Virginia, USA
- POC Communication: Sheila Coffman, MT(ASCP), Program Manager, Abbott Point-of-Care, New Jersey, USA
- POC Final Exam
This esteemed faculty ensures that the aacc point of care specialist certificate program delivers the highest quality education, reflecting real-world expertise and best practices in POCT.
Accreditation and Continuing Education Credits
The aacc point of care specialist certificate program is approved for 13.0 ACCENT® continuing education credits, Activity ID #4155. This accreditation underscores the program’s commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based education in line with ACCENT Standards and Policies.
Important Note for California Residents: This program is not eligible for continuing education credit for California-licensed clinical laboratory personnel reporting to the California Department of Public Health. Please contact [email protected] for any queries regarding California-specific accreditation.
Successful Program Completion
Upon successful completion of the aacc point of care specialist certificate program, including all course work and the activity evaluation, participants will receive a Verification of Participation certificate. The evaluation link will be emailed to participants after all online coursework is completed within ADLM’s learning platform. For any questions regarding continuing education, please contact [email protected].
The aacc point of care specialist certificate program, originally launched in 2008 and most recently updated in 2014, remains a vital resource for professionals seeking to advance their careers in the dynamic field of point-of-care testing. Enroll today and take the next step in your professional journey.
