Assisted living leaders are encouraged to consider expanding their quality journeys by implementing robust data-driven Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) programs that address the full range of care and services offered by their communities. Effective QAPI program implementation requires specific knowledge and leadership skills.
The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living offers NCAL members the opportunity to become a QAPI Certified Professional (QCP) through a partnership with the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN). Developed by AAPACN, this five-course program trains clinical and non-clinical leaders how to provide high-value care and services while positioning your business for continuous growth and sustained performance improvement.
The QCP designation and QAPI for Long-Term Care prep courses are setting the national standard in QAPI certification and education. The goal of QCP certification is to establish that professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate competence in QAPI for long-term care.
The prep courses support achievement of the optional QCP credential. Upon completion of individual’s personal course of study and after passing the certification exam with a score of 80% or better, individuals are allowed to use the initials “QCP” to designate their status and expertise.
There are several benefits for assisted living directors and nurse leaders to attain the QCP designation, including:
- Verification by an independent organization of your mastery of the knowledge required to be an effective QAPI leader
- Professional growth and development
- Improving measurable operational and resident outcomes that set your community apart from the competition
- Implementation of proven problem solving techniques such as root cause analysis that can lead to quantifiable risk reduction
- Increased opportunities for staff engagement and participation in quality improvement efforts
- Higher customer and family satisfaction
The QCP prep training program consists of five preparatory courses, offered as an online and PDF package. Candidates who complete all five self-study courses earn 16.21 hours of ANCC continuing education hours (CEs) or 18.5 NAB continuing education credits. Individuals have one year to complete the course from their registration dates. The NCAL member rate for the prep course is $461.00 when individuals register through the
AHCA/NCAL QCP product store page.
The price of the associated QCP certification exam is $118 when purchased from AAPACN through AHCA/NCAL by going
here. AAPACN does require that certain prerequisites be met to be eligible for QCP certification which is valid for four years. AAPACN also has prerequisites for recertification and the fee is $118 when purchased
here.
For questions about this certification program, review the
QAPI Candidate Handbook. For general questions about AAPACN education, visit the
FAQs page or contact the AAPACN Education Team at (800) 768-1880 or by going to this
link.