2010 AACVPR certification and recertification applications are currently in review and the cycle has closed. If you have previously submitted an application, click the graphic above to log in and access your dashboard.
The AACVPR Certification Center is open! Fundamentally, the requirements to certify or recertify your Cardiovascular or Pulmonary Rehabilitation program have not changed – we’ve just made the application process easier.
Benefits of the new online Certification Center:
- You’ll save time! The new online application is more user-friendly. With intuitive prompts and application tips, it will help you correctly submit your applications the first time. For your convenience, you may now use a credit card and save processing time!
- You’ll save money! This new online application process no longer requires that hard copies of the application be provided via mail. You’ll now save on photocopying and shipping.
- Be prepared! Throughout the application is a listing of documents which may be requested by application reviewers during the review process. While these documents are not required to be submitted with the application, applicants should be prepared to do so, if requested, during the review process. It is suggested that as you assemble your certification documents, you store a hard copy or digital folder of back-up information to have readily available should the reviewers ask to see this data in the upcoming audit and review process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for program certification and recertification is May 15, 2010. Your program's completed application(s)payment are due on or before May 15.
Other important dates:
- July 1, 2010: Review of certification and recertification applications is complete
- August 2010: AACVPR Board of Directors reviews and approves recommendations of National Program Certification Committee
- September 2010: National Office notifies all programs of final review
Why Should I certify?
- The process helps programs improve standards of care and helps programs meet the essential standards.
- JACHO auditors are familiar with AACVPR certification process and have limited their questions of certified programs.
- Patient and family members want to participate in programs that are considered the best and the classification of Certified helps them decide between programs.
- The essential standards required in certification are being recognized by insurance companies, as part of performance measurements in patient care.
- AACVPR is currently the only organization with program certification process.
- Your certified program is listed on the AACVPR web site
How much does it cost?
- Certification: A non-refundable application fee of $600 per program is due with the completed application form. The fees cover the cost of program administration and should be forwarded to the AACVPR national office. There are no additional annual renewal fees as in other certifying organizations.
- Recertification: A non-refundable application fee of $500 per program is due with the completed application form. The fees cover the cost of program administration and should be forwarded to the AACVPR national office. There are no additional annual renewal fees as in other certifying organizations.
How long does it take?
The Certification Center will be open from early March to May 1 for you to complete your application. You do not need to submit your application in one setting; the Center allows you to come back as many times as you need to complete your application and will save your work each time.The actual time it takes to submit an application in the Center will vary by applicant.
*Please note: Your program must be open for at least one year prior to applying for certification in order to ensure all information/policies are in place and functioning.
Who decides if a program is certified or not?
The AACVPR Program Certification Committee or Recertification Committee will review each application packet for completeness and adherence to standards, and may request additional clarification and/or documentation. The AACVPR Program committee shall recommend approval, provisional or denial of program certification to the AACVPR Board of Directors. Programs recommended for denial may appeal in writing to the AACVPR Board of Directors. The AACVPR Program Certification and Recertification Committees reserves the right to perform a site inspection if indicated upon approval by the committees; the AACVPR Board of Directors will issue a certificate, which is valid for three years. The certificate is suitable for framing and can be displayed proudly as a symbol of meeting essential standards for quality patient care in cardiac rehabilitation.
I want to be certified in Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehabilitation, will AACVPR certify me?
No, at this time AACVPR certifies entire Cardiac and Pulmonary rehabilitation facilities. We do not certify individuals.
Where can I find more information on the application process, as well as the application itself?
More information on the applications can be found on the Certification Resources Page.
For the 2010 cycle what is the data collection period?
Certification
January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009
Recertification
January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009
Does there have to be a current AACVPR Member within my program to submit a program certification or recertification application?
Yes. In order to submit your program certification or recertification application you must have a current AACVPR member within your program.