Nursing facilities must have robust data-driven Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) programs that address the full range of care and services offered based on the facility assessment. QAPI programs are inherently complex and require knowledgeable leadership to operate successfully. Three F-Tags (F865, F867, & F868) detail the mandates for nursing facility QAPI program compliance.
Developed by AAPACN, this five-course program trains leaders and teams to provide high-value care and services while positioning your business for continuous growth and sustained performance improvement. The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living offers members the opportunity to become a QAPI Certified Professional (QCP) through a partnership with the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN).
The QCP designation and QAPI for Long-Term Care prep courses are setting the national standard in certification and education for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ QAPI program. While the fundamental concept of the CMS QAPI program is to promote quality of care and quality of life for residents in skilled nursing facilities, 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 QCP credential. Upon completion of an 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 to individuals who attain the QCP designation, including:
- Verification by an independent organization of your mastery of the knowledge required to perform your job
- Professional growth and development
- Enhanced job opportunities
Nursing facilities also benefit through improved quality of care and quality of life for residents as the QAPI process is properly implemented and less training time needed to educate employees on the complex QAPI regulations and procedures.
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 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.