Course Access
Credentialling Review
Part of the College’s Strategy and Implementation Plan for 2023-28 was to undertake a review of the our credentialling framework. For our members, credentialling provides recognition for their expertise in IPC. For organisations, credentialling provides the confidence infection control professionals have a commitment to maintaining the necessary knowledge, experience, and attributes to meet the challenges of contemporary healthcare.
The Board appointed the Nous Group to undertake the external and independent review of credentialling. The Nous Group have significant experience in health-related projects for the government and similar not-for-profit organisations. They held a series of consultations with stakeholders over the end of May and the beginning of June and have provided a set of findings and recommendations for the Board to consider.
The members’ report is linked below. A virtual town hall was held for members on Wednesday, 15 October at 12:00 PM AEDT. Sally Havers, President-Elect, and Stéphane Bouchoucha, President, presented the high-level findings and held a Q&A session.
The ACIPC board will be meeting during the annual conference to develop an implementation plan for the recommendations in the report.
In the meantime, please continue to submit applications for credentialling and re-credentialling under the current guidelines. Give the importance of credentialling, the board anticipates the implementation of any changes will take place in 2026.
Please send any questions to the office, office@acipc.org.au.
Will current credentialling processes be put on hold during the review?
No. Current processes continue as normal. Any transitioning to a revised framework will be carefully managed and communicated.
Should someone considering an application wait until the new process is implemented?
No, unless they do not currently meet the criteria. It’s recommended to start the process as soon as possible.
Is this the first review ever done?
It’s the first external review of credentialling. There have been internal reviews and some changes over time, but this is the first external review as identified in the 2023 strategic plan.
Are the costs going to be reviewed?
Yes. The full review process will include costs, membership benefits, and all related elements.
Is the timeframe for re-credentialling being reviewed?
This will be part of the review process. The 3-year timeframe will be evaluated to determine if improvements are needed.
Will there be an opportunity for people to opt in to help test the new system?
This is under consideration. Once the implementation plan is finalised, members will be contacted about opportunities to participate.
Will the updated process accept international qualifications?
This will be part of the review. The College is keen to recognise expertise gained internationally due to the mobile workforce.
Are there any plans to suspend credentialled members expiry so they can participate in the review?
This will be considered, and updates will be communicated to members.
Does your credentialling lapse if you do not renew your membership?
Yes. Credentialling is linked to membership; you must be a member to be credentialled.
How many credentialled members are there?
Approximately 100. The goal of the review is not necessarily to have the majority of members credentialled. The focus is on providing a clear, valuable pathway for members.
Will reflective writing still be required?
All components, including reflective writing, will be reviewed.
Has credentialling criteria changed over the years?
Yes, there have been changes. Some current members may not meet current requirements due to past internal reviews. The external review will assess these requirements and make recommendations.