Note from the CCDS Coordinator: Is it time to recertify your CCDS credential?

by Penny Richards

In the next couple months, hundreds of CCDS holders will need to recertify their credential. Even those who’ve gone through the process may need a quick refresher. So, without further ado, here are some tips and hints to help you have a smooth recertification process.

You may recertify up to 60 days before your due date. Not sure when it is due? Look at the date on your certificate (the one you have framed and hanging on the wall, of course). Your recert is due every two years from the date you passed the exam. You can also email me (prichards@acdis.org) and I’ll check your due date in the CCDS database.

Also, take a moment to visit our web site and download the recert application to your desktop. Save the file (you might use your name and the year, PRichards2017Recert). Fill the application out, then SAVE IT AGAIN. The file does not auto save your work and you’d be surprised how many blank applications I receive. Send me that SAVED file.

After you send the application, you can pay the fee online. Make sure to sign into your ACDIS membership to get your member discount. If you have trouble getting the discount, you can call me with your credit card information after you’ve sent me the application.

Whether you are completing the form on your desktop or by hand, please provide all of the information requested. For example, I cannot process your application without an email address.

The CEU list indicates you need to provide the program title (subject/topic) and sponsor (who issued the CEUs), location where training took place, the date you completed the training, and the numbers of CEUs that were awarded.

If you’re filling out the application and CEU list on your computer, the font size will shrink smaller as you try to put more information into any single copy block. It’s perfectly fine to use more than one block to list a training event or to attach a second sheet if necessary.

If you’re filling it out by hand, please use black ink.

And one more hint: if you need a few more CEUs, you can log into your ACDIS membership, go back one calendar year, and listen to Quarterly Conference Calls or take the CDI Journal quizzes.

Happy Recertifying! Email me if you need your due date or guidance.

Editor’s note: Richards is the CCDS Coordinator for ACDIS. Contact her at prichards@acdis.com.