Point-of-care testing (POCT) is among the fastest growing disciplines within laboratory medicine and clinical diagnostics. With certification through the AACC Board of Certification, you can showcase your proven expertise. As a Certified Point-of-Care Testing Professional (CPP), you will stand out as someone who has gone above and beyond to demonstrate proficiency in POCT.
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Who Are Certified POCT Professionals?
CPP certification is designed for all personnel who perform diagnostic tests outside the central laboratory, including near-patient testing, point-of-care device selection and validation, quality management, operator training, regulatory compliance, and serving as a liaison with the central laboratory. To be eligible for the CPP credential, you must have either:
- A four-year degree in a biological, chemical, physical, or medical laboratory science or in nursing and at least two years of direct POCT work experience, OR
- A two-year degree in medical laboratory science or medical laboratory technology and four years of direct POCT work experience.
About the Exam
The POCT Professional Certification exam is a two-hour exam consisting of 160 multiple choice questions. The exam is only available online and is monitored by an online proctor via webcam. This allows candidates to take the timed exam in the convenience of their own home or via personal laptop at a time scheduled by the candidate. The exam is offered twice annually, in the Spring (late May) and Fall (early November).
Key Dates and Deadlines for Fall 2022
The following deadlines are for the Fall 2022 exam cycle. All applications must be completed online and require an AACC account. AACC membership is not required.
- Applications Open: June 6, 2022
- Applications Close: August 31, 2022
- Applicants Notified: October 7, 2022
- Exam Payment Deadline: October 17, 2022
- Exam Week: November 14 – 18, 2022
- Exam Results Announced: December 9, 2022
How Do I Apply?
A completed application consists of:
- An education transcript (degrees earned outside the United States also require a credential evaluation report).
- Resume or curriculum vitae (CV) submitted as a single PDF.
- Letter from a supervisor documenting your POCT work experience submitted by the applicant.
- Two (2) letters of recommendation from individuals other than your supervisor submitted by references directly to the application portal.
- Application fee.
View detailed application requirements here.
For complete details on the certification and application process, please review the AACC Point-of-Care Professional Certification Candidate Handbook.