Continuing Education and Competency Program - FAQs
Why do you have a Continuing Education and Competency Program?
The Regulated Health Professions Act and Allied Health Professionals Regulations authorize the College to approve the continuing education of its members. In keeping with the purpose of the College to protect the public, the CEC demonstrates lifelong learning and maintenance of competence.
Why is CEC important?
CEC is a quality assurance mechanism implemented to ensure allied health professionals are engaged in learning activities and remain competent in their practice throughout their careers. The program contributes to the College's mandate to protect the public.
Why has the CEC changed from the credit unit system?
The new CEC focuses more closely on self-assessment and the subsequent identification of knowledge/practice gaps for individuals. The CAHPPEI felt it was time to move towards a more supportive learning approach that is less focused on the number of credits a registrant obtains and more on the impact targeted learning can have on your practice and improving patient care. You are still required to accumulate 20 credit hours as part of the learning activities. 1 credit hour = 1 hour of activity/learning
When am I required to develop a learning plan?
Each year, during the renewal period, registrants are required to complete a learning plan for the upcoming renewal year. This learning plan includes the identification of learning goals and a timeline for completion. Identifying learning goals in advance will help registrants reflect on their current practice and assess their knowledge needs. Learning plans, including anticipated timelines for completion, are considered a best practice to develop meaningful strategies to address gaps or increase your knowledge base.
How long will it take me to complete the requirements?
This will vary with the goals and the methods chosen. The deadline for completion of the requirements is within the registration year. If at any time you encounter difficulties it is important that you contact the CAHPPEI for assistance.
What happens if I am experiencing difficulties completing the requirements during the program year, or I am unable to submit my portfolio by the requested date?
Any time throughout the year, if you have any questions regarding your CEC learning it is important to contact the CAHPPEI for assistance. If you have been audited and are unable to submit your portfolio on time it is important to communicate with the Registrar as to the reasons why, in advance of the deadline. The Registrar will forward your file to the college Council to determine whether to grant an extension.
What happens if I submit an incomplete professional portfolio?
If your portfolio is incomplete, the Registrar and Audit Committee will contact you to discuss it for clarification. Following this communication, if your portfolio is still incomplete it is deemed to be non-compliant. Non-compliant professional portfolios are referred to the Audit Committee to determine the next steps necessary for successful completion. The Registrar will work collaboratively with you to develop a remediation plan for the successful completion of the submitted portfolio.
What happens if I am audited and found to be non-compliant with the requirements of the CEC Program?
Non-compliant professional portfolios are referred to the Audit Committee to determine the next steps necessary for successful completion. The Registrar will work collaboratively with you to develop a remediation plan for the successful completion of the submitted portfolio. Registrants that are found to be non-compliant with the mandatory CEC, despite attempts at remediation can be subject to progressive disciplinary action, including loss of registration. For more detailed information please refer to the CAHPPEI Audit Policy.
Can my self-assessment tool responses be used in the professional conduct process if a complaint is filed against me?
No, the CAHPPEI will not have access to your self-assessment tool responses.
What happens if I say NO to participating?
If you are a College member and refuse to comply with the CEC requirements you cannot proceed with registration renewal. The College will impose terms and conditions on your registration which may limit your ability to practice in your profession in PEI. Failing attempts at remediation, you may be subject to progressive disciplinary action, including investigation for professional misconduct. For more detailed information please refer to the Regulated Health Professions Act and the CAHPPEI Audit Policy.
Where can I get more information on the CEC requirements?
Besides the CEC section on this website, the College has developed a CEC Program Instruction Guide. This guide provides all information regarding the requirements of the program. At any time, if you require more information, clarification regarding the requirements, or assistance in developing or following through with a learning plan, you may contact the CAHPPEI Registrar.