Clinical Lipid Specialist Certification Candidate Handbook Updated Dec. 2015
www.lipidspecialist.org
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 1 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
History
The concept of a certification program was spearheaded by the National Lipid Association to provide opportunities for professional development and formal recognition of the specialized expertise of health care professionals with a focus in Clinical Lipidology. The Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology was incorporated as an independent organization in 2006 to develop and administer the Clinical Lipid Specialist Exam. In 2009 the Basic Competency in Clinical Lipidology exam was created to offer a professional development opportunity to any healthcare professional or paraprofessional with an interest or involvement in the area of dyslipidemia.
Although the Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology is now a self-governing and separate entity from the NLA, the two organizations work collaboratively to ensure that there are adequate educational and professional development opportunities for Health Care professionals involved in lipid management to help them meet the prerequisites of the certifying examinations. Mission
The Mission of the Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology is to establish, certify, and maintain the clinical competencies of qualified health care professionals who have a focus in Clinical Lipidology.
About the ACCL
The Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology (ACCL) is an independent certifying organization that has developed standards and an examination in the field of Clinical Lipidology for the growing number of health care professionals who are involved in lipid management.
ACCL provides recognition and distinction in the field of Clinical Lipidology for health care professionals who successfully credential and complete a written examination. Certification by the ACCL provides benefits to both the practitioner and the profession by:
Improving the quality of patient care Setting benchmarks of clinical competency for lipid specialists Encouraging ongoing learning and improvement required for professional excellence over a lifetime of practice Helping health care professionals achieve recognition of their specialized training and qualifications Enhancing the credibility of the health care professionals and the specialty of Clinical Lipidology in the medical community
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 2 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Who should take the Exam? The CLS advanced certification program is open to licensed physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, registered dietitians, clinical exercise physiologists/specialists and other health care professionals who meet qualifying criteria.
The CLS is ideal for health care professionals in clinical or academic practice who are actively involved in patient management and seeking to demonstrate their expertise in Clinical Lipidology and commitment to continued professional development in lipid management. Eligibility Criteria
To become credentialed, candidates must meet the following requirements:
1. Basic Eligibility Criteria 2. Patient Care / Education Requirements 3. Training Requirements
Although rigorous, the requirements are designed to provide an avenue for advanced healthcare providers with demonstrated knowledge and experience in Lipidology to become certified as Clinical Lipid Specialists.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
United States or Canadian Resident Licensed to practice* * Please provide a copy of professional license with current expiration date.
Patient Care/ Education Requirements
Copy of diploma of highest degree earned and One letter of recommendation from an individual qualified to comment on your work and/or experience in the management of patients with dyslipidemias.
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 3 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Training Requirements Minimum of 200 points is required to successfully credential for certification. Points are earned through primary and subspecialty board certifications, relevant academic practice, involvement in relevant clinical research, and participation in lipid-focused continuing medical education activities.
Physician Criteria Points
1. Certification in a primary board. 50 points** Documentation: Copy of certificates form Board(s).
2. Subspecialty certification in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism 50 points** (EDM), Cardiology, Nephrology. OR Other relevant advanced training and/or certification, including Certified OR Diabetes Educator, Clinical Nutrition, Gastroenterology, Pediatric Cardiology/Endocrinology, Specialist in Clinical Hypertension Documentation: Copy of certificates. 10 to 50 points**
3. Academic practice and/or relevant faculty appointment at an ACGME 50 points recognized institution. Documentation: Letter from Department Chair or Division Chief at the ACGME recognized academic institution(s) confirming appointment(s) and explaining relevance to lipid management.
4. Clinical research and/or scholarly publications in the management of 10 points per lipid disorders publication Documentation: Please list and highlight all relevant scholarly, peer- (up to 50 reviewed publications in a WORD document or on your CV. points)
5. Balance of points not obtained in 1-4, must be earned through lipid 2 points per focused continuing medical education credit obtained within the credit hour previous five years. earned Documentation: Complete the ACCL CE/CME Credit Tracking Form and attach copies of certificates of attendance for the CE activities that you submit for points. The titles of the activities must be clearly identified. **The combined points earned from these categories is may not exceed 100 points.
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 4 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Nurse and Physician Assistant Criteria Points
1. Certification in a primary board (e.g. NCCPA, ANCC, AANP), or other 50 points** appropriate certificate programs. Documentation: Copy of certificates.
2. Higher education level: Doctoral Degree OR other relevant advanced 50 points** training. Documentation: Copy of certificates.
3. Relevant academic practice and faculty appointment at a recognized 50 points institution (i.e., relevant to lipid practice) Documentation: Letter from Department Chair or Division Chief at the recognized academic institution(s) confirming appointment(s) and explaining relevance to lipid management.
4. Clinical research and/or scholarly publications in the management of 10 points per lipid disorders publication Documentation: Please list and highlight all relevant scholarly, peer- (up to 50 reviewed publications in a WORD document or on your CV. points)
5. Balance of points not obtained in 1-4, must be earned through lipid 2 points per focused continuing education credit obtained within the previous five credit hour calendar years. earned Documentation: Complete the ACCL CE/CME Credit Tracking Form and attach copies of certificates of attendance for the CE activities that you submit for points. The titles of the activities must be clearly identified. **The combined points earned from these categories is may not exceed 100 points.
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 5 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Pharmacist Criteria Points
1. Certification in a recognized board (e.g., Board of Pharmaceutical 50 points** Specialties [worth 50 points]) or advanced licensure recognized by the state OR other appropriate certificate programs (worth 10-50 points) Documentation: Copy of certificates.
2. Relevant accredited postgraduate training of at least 1 year (if not 50 points** accounted for in basic requirements) OR higher education level (Post Baccalaureate, PharmD) Documentation: Copy of certificates.
3. Relevant academic practice and faculty appointment at a recognized 50 points institution (i.e., relevant to lipid practice) Documentation: Letter from Department Chair or Division Chief at the recognized academic institution(s) confirming appointment(s) and explaining relevance to lipid management.
4. Clinical research and/or scholarly publications in the management of 10 points per lipid disorders publication Documentation: Please list and highlight all relevant scholarly, peer- (up to 50 reviewed publications in a WORD document or on your CV. points)
5. Balance of points not obtained in 1-4, must be earned through lipid 2 points per focused continuing education credit obtained within the previous five credit hour calendar years. earned Documentation: Complete the ACCL CE/CME Credit Tracking Form and attach copies of certificates of attendance for the CE activities that you submit for points. The titles of the activities must be clearly identified. **The combined points earned from these categories is may not exceed 100 points.
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 6 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Dietitian and Exercise Physiologist/Specialist Criteria Points
1. Certification in Adult Weight Management from the ADA, certification 50 points** from other relevant advanced training, including Certified Diabetes Educator or FADA, or other appropriate certificate programs. Documentation: Copy of certificates.
2. Higher education level: Doctoral Degree OR other relevant advanced 50 points** training. Documentation: Copy of certificates.
3. Relevant academic practice and faculty appointment at a recognized 50 points institution (i.e., relevant to lipid practice) Documentation: Letter from Department Chair or Division Chief at the recognized academic institution(s) confirming appointment(s) and explaining relevance to lipid management.
4. Clinical research and/or scholarly publications in the management of 10 points per lipid disorders publication Documentation: Please list and highlight all relevant scholarly, peer- (up to 50 reviewed publications in a WORD document or on your CV. points)
5. Balance of points not obtained in 1-4, must be earned through lipid 2 points per focused continuing education credit obtained within the previous five credit hour calendar years. earned Documentation: Complete the ACCL CE/CME Credit Tracking Form and attach copies of certificates of attendance for the CE activities that you submit for points. The titles of the activities must be clearly identified. **The combined points earned from these categories is may not exceed 100 points.
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 7 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Other Applicants:
Candidates that do not fit into the above state professions and criteria may apply based on the following criteria. Application acceptance will be at the discretion of the ACCL Exam Committee.
This pathway is for Allied Health Professionals who do not fit into any of the professions listed above or do not have licensure available for profession. These applicants must be currently active in clinical activities and demonstrate at least 4,000 contact hours of clinical experience in the management of patients with lipid disorders or other related disorders. These applicants must submit a thorough CV detailing experience and credentials. Copies of all relevant certificates and diplomas claimed must accompany this application. Documentation: Two letters of recommendation from individuals qualified to comment on your work and/or experience in the management of patients with dyslipidemias and copies of certificates and diplomas claimed (as applicable)
Patient Care/Education Requirements Degree Patient Care Requirement
Bachelor's or higher in 4,000 hours of demonstrated clinical experience in the management of related health science* patients with lipid or other related disorders. (~2 year)* *Documentation: Copy of diploma of highest degree earned and Two letters of recommendation from individuals qualified to comment on your work and/or experience in the management of patients with dyslipidemias Criteria Points
1. Certification in a related and appropriate program. 50 points** Documentation: Copy of certificates from Board(s).
2. Higher education level: Doctoral Degree OR other relevant 50 points** advanced training. Documentation: Copy of certificates.
3. Academic practice and/or relevant faculty appointment. 50 points Documentation: Letter from Department Chair or Division Chief at the recognized academic institution(s) confirming appointment(s) and explaining relevance to lipid management.
4. Clinical research and/or scholarly publications in the management of 10 points per lipid disorders publication Documentation: Please list and highlight all relevant scholarly, peer- (up to 50 points) reviewed publications in a WORD document or on your CV.
5. Balance of points not obtained in 1-4, must be earned through lipid 2 points per focused continuing education credit obtained within the previous five credit hour calendar years. earned Documentation: Complete the ACCL CE/CME Credit Tracking Form and attach copies of certificates of attendance for the CE activities that you submit for points. The titles of the activities must be clearly identified. **The combined points earned from these categories is may not exceed 100 points. Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 8 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Exam Information
The subject content of the CLS examination reflects the knowledge, skills, and attitudes deemed essential for the competent practice of Lipidology. The examination has been constructed at the upper level of difficulty and consists of approximately 150 multiple choice questions. You will have 4 hours to complete the exam.
Exam Blueprint Percentage Topic
24% Pharmacology
18% Nutrition, Exercise, Lifestyle
10% Clinical Trials
10% Metabolic Syndrome
9% Risk Assessment
7% Genetics
6% Adherence and Compliance
5% Special Populations
3% Vascular Biology
A passing score on the exam is a 62% or higher.
The content focuses on the approved Core Curriculum in Clinical Lipidology:
The content focuses on the approved Core Curriculum in Clinical Lipidology: Metabolism of lipids and lipoproteins and the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis Genetics, diagnosis, and management of dyslipidemias and the metabolic syndrome CV risk assessment Pharmacology, safety and efficacy of lipid-altering drugs Fundamentals of non-pharmacologic therapy: nutrition, exercise, and behavior and compliance
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 9 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Application Procedures
Applications are available for download on the ACCL website (www.lipidspecialist.org). Candidates must submit their applications with payment to ACCL by the appropriate application deadline listed below to be considered for the exam. Payment of the examination fee must accompany your application. Before mailing your application, please review carefully the information and make sure that your application is complete and legible. All communications in regard to the exam, with the exception of exam scores, will be sent by email. Candidates are reminded to provide a current email address at the time of application and to inform ABCL of any changes.
Exam applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are received. If accepted by the Credentialing Committee, candidates will receive a confirmation notice via email confirming their approval to take the exam within four weeks of submitting their application. This letter will only confirm approval and receipt of payment and does not allow the candidate to schedule their test appointment. Scheduling permits to take the computer-based examination will be distributed via email within two weeks following the close of the application period.
Please note: Once a candidate’s application has been approved, they must sit for the exam within the next year, three Testing Windows, or they will forfeit all paid fees and be required to apply to submit a new application and full fee to sit for a future exam.
For upcoming Testing Windows, please visit: www.lipidspecialist.org
CLS Fees
Credentialing Fee $120 (non-refundable)*
Examination Fee $379
Total Certification Fee $499
Refunds/Cancellation Policy *Regardless of its action on any application, the ACCL will retain a $120 non-refundable application fee and will require candidates to pay all fees and meet eligibility criteria applicable at the time of any future application.
Telephone cancellations cannot be accepted. A written notice of cancellation must be received no later than two weeks prior to the examination for a refund less a $120 credentialing fee.
Mail Complete Application Packages to: Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology ATTN: Certification Coordinator 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000 Jacksonville, FL 32216
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 10 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Nondiscrimination Policy
The ACCL does not discriminate against any person on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin, medical condition, physical disability, or marital status.
Computerized Testing Center Information
The CLS exam is administered by computer, during three Testing Windows per year, through Webassessor Testing Centers. Exam candidates approved to take the exam are given a scheduling permit via an email which enables them to schedule their testing appointment at the date and time of their choice at a Webassessor testing center. Exam dates and times during the testing windows are dependent on each testing center’s hours of operation. Once you have selected your testing center, the date and the time of the exam is dependent upon the availability of that specific location.
You must select your testing center within 48 hours prior to taking the exam.
Rules for the Examination
Strict security measures are maintained throughout all phases of examination development and administration. Candidates are required to present a form of photo identification in order to enter the testing center. Trained proctors supervise the administration of the examination, maintaining the strictest security throughout the testing period. Irregularities observed during the testing period, such as creating a disturbance, giving or receiving unauthorized information or aid to or from other persons, or attempting to remove test materials or notes from the testing room, may be sufficient cause to terminate candidate participation in the examination administration or to invalidate a score. Irregularities may also be evidenced by subsequent statistical analysis of testing materials. The ACCL reserves the right to investigate each incident of suspected misconduct or irregularity. The examination is a copyrighted work of the Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology. Any unauthorized copying of the exam or of any questions may constitute copyright infringement. o All candidates must provide current, valid photo identification bearing your signature. Examples are a valid driver's license, government (including state) issued identification card or passport. o All candidates should arrive at the test site approximately 30 minutes prior to testing time. Late arrivals may be admitted but will not be given extra time. o No books or other reference materials may be taken into the examination room. o Simple calculators are permitted, but no pdas, cell phones, books or other reference materials may be taken into the examination room. o No signaling devices, including pagers, cell phones, laptops, and alarms may be operative during the examination. o Food (including candy and gum), beverages, and tobacco products are not permitted in the testing room. o No test materials, documents, or memoranda of any sort are to be taken from the examination room. o The examination will be held only on the day and at the time scheduled. o No questions concerning content of the examination may be asked during the testing period. The candidate should listen carefully to the instructions given by the proctor and should read carefully all directions in the test booklet. o Exam candidates may leave the testing room to use the restroom but will not receive any additional time to complete the examination.
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 11 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Reporting of Results
The passing score is based on an expected level of knowledge; it is not related to the distribution of scores obtained during a particular examination administration. In other words, each candidate is measured against a standard of knowledge, not against the performance of other individuals taking the examination. A passing score on the ABCL exam is a 70%.
Candidates will be notified by the ACCL within 4 weeks whether they have passed or failed the examination. All candidates will receive: (a) a letter indicating their exam results and (b) a diagnostic score report showing their performance in each content area.
Re-Examination
Candidates who do not achieve a passing score on the exam are eligible to submit a reapplication at a discounted rate of $250. Re-examinations must occur within one year, three testing windows, following the failed examination. The examination may be retaken 3 times, or a max of 4 times.
If it has been more than one year, three testing windows, since an applicant has completed the CLS Exam they will need to submit a complete new application and full fee.
Confidentiality
The ACCL will release the individual test scores by mail only and only to the individual examinees. Any questions concerning test results should be referred to the ACCL office at 904.309.6250.
Diplomate Status ACCL Designations/Use of Credentials
Candidates who successfully pass the Clinical Lipid Specialist exam will earn the designation "Clinical Lipid Specialist." This credential may be abbreviated and used in the signature of professionals as follows:
Approved Designation: John Smith, PharmD, CLS Or, this credential may be stated as "Diplomate, Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology"
There may also be limitations imposed by your state or professional licensure board.
Renewing Your Certification
Your certification is valid for 10 years. Visit the ACCL website for the latest information regarding renewal of certification requirements.
Questions: Phone: 904.309.6250 E-Mail: [email protected]
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 12 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org
Frequently Asked Questions
1.) Is the CLS examination difficult? What is the pass rate? Many Diplomates say it is one of the more rigorous exams they have taken. The pass rate ranges from 80–85%.
2.) Are there courses or reference materials to assist in preparation for the examination? Continuing Education: The National Lipid Association (NLA) offers a lifelong learning program that paves the way for professional development and recognition of the distinct and specialized knowledge required of Clinical Lipidologists. Lipidology is an evolving field that requires clinicians to stay abreast of the latest clinical research and treatment guidelines and to apply this knowledge in practice. The NLA strives has developed educational activities at all levels of competency and provides continuous clinical updates, opportunities for self-assessment and practice improvement. For the Clinical Lipid Specialist "CLS" Exam: The NLA Self-Assessment Program (NLA-SAP), Lipid Academy Course and Masters in Lipidology Course are utilized by the majority of our applicants to prepare and earn CME/CE credit toward sitting for the exam. For those with significant experience in lipid management, the Masters in Lipidology Course should be suitable preparation for the CLS exam. For those who are newer to the field, participation first in the Lipid Academy and then the Masters course would be suggested. The CME/CE credit hours earned from participating in these activities will help you to meet the CLS credentialing criteria.
3.) Where do I take the exam? The CLS exams are administered by computer through Webassessor Testing Centers. Exam candidates approved to take the exam are given a scheduling permit by way of an email which enables them to schedule their testing appointment with the date and time of their choice. Exam dates and times are dependent on each Webassessor Testing Center’s hours of operation. Once you have selected your testing center, the date and the time of the exam is dependent upon the availability of that specific location. You must schedule your exam 48 hours prior to taking the exam.
Unless special accommodations, requested under the Americans with Disabilities Act, have been arranged you will have an allotted time (4 hours for the CLS exam and 2 hours for the BCCL exam) to complete the exam.
4.) What if I must reschedule my exam date? If you need to cancel or change your testing times you must notify us more than 72 hours before your actual exam time. If you cancel after the 72 hours regardless of reasoning, there is an additional $95.00 seating fee that will be charged back to you. No exceptions. Please take this into consideration when choosing your test date/time.
5.) How quickly will I receive results? You can expect to receive your score report within 4 weeks of the close of the testing window. Exam results are confidential and will only be released in writing to the registered examinee.
6.) What if I fail? The CLS exam may be taken up to 3 times upon filing a new application and paying the re- examination fee each time. If a candidate fails three examinations, eligibility is withheld for a period of two years. The CLS retake fee is $250
Accreditation Council for Clinical Lipidology 13 6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.309.6250 Fax 904.998.0855 www.lipidspecialist.org