| Abstract: | This article identifies and clarifies some of the major issues concerning recertification and relicensure of allied health practitioners. Various methods of recredentialing are discussed; while mandatory continuing education may not provide evidence of competency, it may be more acceptable to health care practitioners than any other type of requirement. However, statewide peer review/audit, on-the-job performance evaluation, and a national written examination may be more suitable as recredentialing methods if certain conditions are met. Criteria are suggested for the evaluation of any proposed recredentialing program; for example, the program should be criterion-referenced based, valid, reliable, accessible, cost-effective, and acceptable. If such a recredentialing program is developed, the credentialing board and the practitioners--and ultimately employers, third-party payers, and consumers--must bear the additional costs. The major questions are "Is it necessary?" and "Is it worth it?" |
