Benefits of Certification
Certification has both tangible and intangible benefits. It benefits the professional who earns certification, the certified individual's employer, clients, patients and the families of those for whom care and services are provided.
Certification reflects an individual's achievement beyond licensure requirements and a basic level of knowledge. It exhibits dedication to validating a specific set of skills to provide enhanced care and services for patients and clients through advanced competency.
Benefits of certification to the individual professional include: greater confidence in providing care/services; a heightened ability to discern complications; more effective education of patients; enhanced collaboration with peers, colleagues and team members; personal satisfaction; career advancement; increased earning potential; acknowledgement of achievement by peers and employers; recognition of efforts to improve knowledge and skills; and validation of qualifications, knowledge and skills.
Benefits of certification to the employer include: knowledge that the professional work environment includes advanced professional employees; greater retention of employees due to professional and personal satisfaction; reduced exposure to risk; enhanced care for patients and clients to distinguish them from competitors; and a way for employers to sort through resumes at a primary level.
Benefits of certification to patients and families include: assurance that the provider of care is qualified and competent at a more than basic level; improved quality, safety and accuracy of care by advanced skilled professionals; expanded knowledge to be shared about choices and treatment options; more empowerment in decision making; and knowledge that the professional has the shown the desire to improve their quality of patient care and service delivery.
The National Consortium of Breast Centers identifies the purpose of certification as a means to set standards of achievement and the professional's role; enhance patient safety, quality of care and delivery of services; and recognize professionals who advance beyond basic knowledge in a field of specialty.
The Breast Patient Navigation Certification examination is based upon the role of a breast patient navigator and the Breast Patient Navigation Matrix. A peer review team of breast patient navigators, selected by discipline, facility and program type and geographical area participated in the role and Matrix demarcation. The Breast Patient Navigation Certification examination reflects the knowledge and skills a breast patient navigator should understand in order to successfully navigate a breast patient through the breast health/cancer continuum of care. Due to advancements in care processes, treatments and technology, the examination is continually reviewed to reflect these advancements.
Certification continuation must be demonstrated annually through professional education and documented performance.