Opportunities for Promoting ASCPi Credentials in Current & Emerging International Markets

Abstract

Abstract Introduction/Objective The objective of this study is to identify the positive viewpoints while clarifying and mitigating misconceptions applicants have about the BOC’s credentials for internationally educated laboratory professionals (ASCPi) and the Credential Maintenance Program (CMP). With over 21,000 ASCPi credential holders worldwide since 2006, and an average yearly growth rate in the number of individuals seeking ASCPi credentials of 29 percent, it is clear ASCPi credentials are growing in recognition and popularity. However, despite the positive growth in the number of individuals seeking ASCPi credentials, the BOC credentials a fraction of ASCPi eligible laboratory professional graduates each year. Therefore, to encourage additional interest in achieving BOC credentials and advance understanding for CMP, the BOC International Credentialing Committee (ICC) created and deployed a survey. This survey was intended to reach ASCPi credential holders worldwide. The resulting report (based on analysis of the survey results) identified several opportunities and issues affecting participation in the BOC’s ASCPi and CMP offerings. Methods/Case Report 1,460 individuals from 74 countries of education participated in the ICC-developed survey. The survey was deployed on December 8, 2022, and closed on January 20, 2023. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) This study confirmed a number of assertions the BOC had about the international credential market. The most important of these assertions is ASCPi credentials are appealing to internationally educated laboratory professionals due to ASCPi’s portability (i.e., work eligibility, emigration, etc.). Other confirmed assertions include a moderate CMP participation rate, and that Facebook remains a popular social media channel in most countries. Conclusion The BOC should continue leaning into the portability of ASCPi credentials, but needs to better promote its advanced credential offerings internationally. This is because ASCPi advanced exams have low application rates when compared to the application rates for ASCP advanced credential exams. The BOC should also place greater emphasis on educating ASCPi credential holders on the importance of CMP and on what can be used for CE towards CMP. For example, our research provided insights that the BOC needs to create a social media campaign that helps international credential holders understand how CE may be earned for their country’s national CE requirements. Additional CMP insights include the utilization of employer-based professional or skill-development courses.