Dear RDH eVillage:
I received the certificate from UOR verifying that I earned 21 CEUs. Can you provide some guidance as to the best way to keep them? I would hate to be audited and not be prepared?
See you all next year!!!
Dear RDH:
The thought of having your CE records audited strikes terror in the hearts of many clinicians. While it's not a pleasant thought you can sail through the process if you have all your records in order and can send the documentation in to the reporting authority in a timely manner.
Consider keeping all of your certificates and other documentation in a single file. Make it a habit to put these important papers into the file as soon as you get home.
The recent RDH Under One Roof Conference documentation is a perfect example of why and how to keep detailed. Conference attendees were given a triplicate reporting sheet when they checked in to the event. The form contained ample space to record the course title, date, credit hours and official course code for every CE event. At the end of the conference, attendees kept one copy and turned the rest into the course organizers. One month later Pennwell sent out an official letter verifying the total number of credits.
The process is efficient but it is up to each attendee to keep good records to back up their attendance. Most licensing authorities want more detailed records so attach your attendance sheet to the letter and keep a copy of the course descriptions or the session handout just in case you need it for an audit.
Also, remember that not all UOR courses can be used to satisfy CE requirements in all states. For example, Texas only allows courses that are scientific or technical and relate to direct clinical care. So while I really enjoyed Gary Zelesky's marvelous keynote, I doubt it would qualify for either of my state license renewal requirements. It's always a good idea to get a few more credits than you would ever need just to be on the safe side. UOR certainly has enough choices to fill the bill. See you next year in Chicago!
Anne Nugent Guignon, RDH, MPH
Senior Consultig Editor/Columnist RDH Magazine
2004 Mentor of the Year
Philips Oral Heath Care - RDH Magazine
www.anneguignon.com
