CPD Program
The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program is open to all Paramedic professionals who wish to formally maintain their knowledge and competencies to undertake their professional activities. Paramedic clinical practice guidelines, Certifications and regular Re-certifications are quality assurance measures which can assist paramedic service providers to maintain a high level of confidence in the duty of care provided to the community and clients.
The primary aims of the CPD program are:
- To provide a quality assurance contribution to Paramedic patient care and paramedic employers in Australia by encouraging Paramedic Professionals to manage, and take responsibility for their own individual knowledge and competency.
- To facilitate national professional recognition for paramedic professionals and enhance recognition of qualifications between State and Territory paramedic service providers.
How to enter the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program
All members of PARAMEDICS AUSTRALASIA are automatically enrolled in the CPD program.
Process for CERTIFICATION:-
To become certified simply download the ‘Appendix 2 Annual Declaration‘ form – this is obtained by logging into the members only section of the website by entering your ID name (imsmith and your password) as prompted.
All members are eligible to enter for Certification.
Complete the form ‘Appendix 2 – Declaration‘ and the ‘Appendix 3 – Points Collection‘ listing all relevant activities, then submit to the Secretariat of Continuing Professional Development.
A total of 50 points per annum is required to achieve certification
Alternatively, you can submit a claim for CPD currently based on an authority recognised system of professional development. Simply download and complete the form (Appendix 2 – section A) and submit to Secretariat for Continuing Professional Development with evidence of your development activities.
RECERTIFICATION is required annually – submit Appendix Two to cpd@paramedics.org.au by 30th June each year.
RECERTIFICATION certificates are issued from the secretariat of Continuing Professional Development.
Further information about the CPD program requirements is available from the CPD Secretariat: cpd@paramedics.org.au
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I join?
As prehospital professionals we are keen to have our role recognised as a true profession. An integral component of professional recognition is a system of professional regulation. Such a system is critical if as a profession we wish to achieve registration.
The PA Continuing Professional Development program is a voluntary regulation program that will form the basis of our ongoing move towards professional registration. By joining you are demonstrating a professional approach to developing and maintaining your currency as a prehospital professional.
How do I collect my points?
Every year you are required to demonstrate your currency. You do this by collecting Professionals Development points. You collect these points on the Appendix 3 – Points Collection form. Once you have collected your points you submit the form and copies of evidence to support your points claims.
What sorts of activities can I complete?
Activities that will contribute towards your point collection include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Participating in workshops, seminars and conferences;
- Participating in discussion groups relevant to professional development activities, including clinical practice reviews/audits;
- Review of literature and articles relevant to the area of practice, including PA scientific publications;
- Participating in development activities offered by professional bodies and presented by reputable experts in the relevant areas;
- Serving as a “mentor/coach” for student paramedic professionals or other learners
I already have a Certificate of Practice from my organisation. Can I use this?
Yes you can just submit a copy of this certificate attached to the form and submit these. PA may contact your employing agency to ascertain that their requirements meet PA standards.
Can I join if I work for a private provider?
Yes you can just collect your 50 points and evidence of meeting your employer’s currency requirements using the form and submit these. PA may contact your employer to ascertain that their requirements meet PA standards.
Can I join if I am self employed?
Yes you can just collect your 50 points and evidence of meeting currency requirements using the form and submit these. PA will contact you to ascertain that your currency activities meet PA standards.
How do I retain currency?
You can remain current by collecting a further 50 points over the ensuing year. PA will keep a record of your status. Certification expires 30th June each year.
Does it matter what level of practice I hold?
No, you can participate no matter what level of practice you hold as long as you hold a formal qualification and have maintained currency as established by your employer.
