By Robert M. Traynor
This article is a part of the May/June 2017, Volume 29, Number 3, Audiology Today issue.
In an economy that necessitates careful consideration of expenses, it is understandable that health care professionals need to question the value of obtaining credentials. What is the value-added benefit for spending extra money to obtain a certification credential beyond a professional degree? If someone is in private practice and does not have to prove anything to employers, why should he or she worry about being board certified? Why does it really matter to have the privilege of listing Board Certified in Audiology after my name?
Board Certification Makes Good Sense
The dismissive nature of these very questions suggests a lack of understanding of the business of health care in society today. Health care is business, and to thrive in it the clinician must possess a synergy of strong business and clinical skills. The needed business acumen includes attention to the practicalities of operations and strategic management. Moreover, it necessitates demonstration of strategic leadership (BE Smith Team, 2017) and emotional intelligence (Warren, 2013). As well, it is an appreciation of a core element of business: public relations.
At a time when they face huge competition, professionals across the health disciplines must further define and distinguish themselves. Unskilled workers across the health-care disciplines have assumed increasing numbers of tasks once limited only to professionals. (Nancarrow and Borthwick, 2005). As the lines blur within the health-care workforce, it becomes all the more essential for the qualified providers of hearing health care to take steps to define his or her professional role…and to actively promote it.
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