Move expected late next year
Beginning in late 2020, AOTA will move to exam-based advanced certifications to replace the current peer-reviewed reflective portfolio application process. The new certification program will begin with major areas currently part of the Board Certification program, to be followed by a new Specialty Certification process. The current portfolio process will accept submissions through December 2019.
Shortly, AOTA will establish a Certification Commission that will guide certification program policies and processes, including certification requirements, recertification requirements, and the plan to transition (“grandfather”) current certification holders into the new program.
In a statement on the organization’s website, the AOTA Board stated that they considered the importance of advanced certifications in current employment environments along with member feedback, program performance, current trends in certification, and market interest in exam-based board certification. Exam-based certifications are the most widely used approach for recognizing advanced knowledge and skills and are well accepted among most employers and other stakeholders for a range of professions.
More information will be available on APTA’s website in the coming months.
SOURCE: AOTA
