Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care Launches Certification for Observation Specialists
DUBLIN, Ohio, July 28, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (SCPC) has announced that it will begin offering Observation Specialist Certification for hospital clinicians, physicians or administrators who would like to acquire the leadership skills required to oversee a virtual or dedicated observation unit within a hospital setting.
Dr. Michael Ross, the medical director of Emory University Hospital's Clinical Decision Unit and an SCPC Board Member, recently described the challenge inherent in staffing an observation unit. "There's a real experience, clinical skill, and knowledge gap among hospitals and providers in the area of observation services. Fortunately, there's now research that shows what the best practices are and what outcomes can be expected. But to really make those outcomes a reality, we need to train the workforce."
SCPC CEO Wil Mick says that the organization decided to launch the certification program for three important reasons. First, to establish important criteria by which the industry can measure the leadership potential of educated professionals in the observation setting. Second, to cultivate more efficient and cost-effective practices in the observation environment. And finally, to demonstrate greater advocacy for the millions of patients who are admitted to observation units every year. Observation Services workshop instructor Kay Melching, who is a registered nurse and a certified professional in healthcare quality, added, "As Observation Medicine and nursing become more specialized we believe certification will distinguish the individual who demonstrates competency regarding the skill set required to contribute to the success of an Observation Service line at their facility."
Individuals interested in obtaining certification are required to attend SCPC's Observation Services Workshop and then take the Certified Observation Specialist (COS) exam. Topics covered in the exam are taught and discussed in the Observation Services Workshop. Workshop attendees also receive professional development CMEs or CEUs.
Those who meet eligibility requirements and pass the certification exam retain COS credentials for a period of three years. The next scheduled Observation Services Workshop will be conducted October 15, 2015 at SCPC offices in Dublin, Ohio.
For complete details about the certification program, visit http://www.scpc.org/education/OScertification.aspx
About Observation Services and SCPC
The July 2015 issue of the SCPC News Bulletin contains additional information specific to recent presentations, workshops and conferences related to the topic of Observation Services. For more information, visit http://www.scpc.org/community/newsletter/scpc-july-2015-newsletter.html
About SCPC
The Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (SCPC) is an international not-for-profit organization committed to leading the fight to eliminate heart disease as the number one cause of death worldwide. SCPC focuses on transforming cardiovascular care by helping healthcare facilities identify existing gaps in treatment while also implementing strategies that reduce variance of care. Through its accreditation and certification programs, SCPC provides the tools, education, and support necessary to achieve measured success in the treatment and management of cardiovascular patients.
For more information on SCPC, accreditation opportunities, visit www.scpc.org, or call toll free 1-877-271-4176.
Media contact: Casey Strader, 614-408-1291, [email protected]
SOURCE Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (SCPC)
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