Use of Credential Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this "Use of Credential" policy is to establish guidelines for the proper and authorized use of the certifications and corresponding credentials granted by NCCAA. This policy aims to ensure the integrity of the certification process for those certified, to maintain the value of earning certification, and to maintain the reputation of the NCCAA and the certification offered by the NCCAA.

Scope

This policy applies to all that use the credential.

Authorized Use of Credential

1. Professional Use:
   • Certified individuals are authorized to use the credential, “Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant” and/or “CAA”, in a professional capacity related to the field of anesthesia.
2. Marketing and Promotion:
   • Certified individuals may use their credentials for marketing and promotional purposes related to their professional services, subject to the guidelines outlined in this policy.
3. Endorsement Limitations:
   • Certified individuals must not use their credentials in a manner that implies endorsement by the NCCAA for any specific product, service, or entity without explicit permission of the NCCAA.

Guidelines for Use

1. Accurate Representation:
   • Certified individuals must accurately represent their certification status.
2. Avoiding Misrepresentation:
   • Certified individuals must refrain from any use of their credentials that could mislead the public, misrepresent their qualifications, or create confusion with patients or the public.
3. Scope of Practice:
   • The use of the credential must align with the certified individual's current professional scope of practice.

Prohibited Uses

1. Unauthorized Representations:
   • Certified individuals must not make unauthorized representations or claims about their certification or use their credentials in any way that is inconsistent with NCCAA policies.
2. False or Misleading Claims:
   • Certified individuals must not make false or misleading claims regarding their certification status, or the benefits of their services based on their certification status.
3. Endorsement by the Organization:
   • Certified individuals must not imply that their actions or statements are endorsed by the NCCAA without explicit permission.
4. Unauthorized Use:
   • Unauthorized use of any NCCAA credential or false claim of certification may result in denial, suspension, or revocation of certification. Further, unauthorized use of the CAA designation may result in NCCAA bringing applicable legal action under applicable state and/or federal law.

Disciplinary Actions for Misuse

1. Investigation Process:
   • The NCCAA reserves the right to investigate any reported or suspected misuse of credentials.
2. Corrective Actions:
   • If misuse is confirmed, the NCCAA may take corrective actions, including, but not limited to, warnings, probation, suspension, revocation, or denial of certification.

Reporting Violations

1. Reporting Responsibilities:
   • Certified individuals are encouraged to report any violations of this policy promptly.
2. Whistleblower Protection:
   • CAA communications regarding behavior of others not in compliance with this policy will be confidential and reporting CAAs may report directly to NCCAA without fear of retaliation or reprisal from NCCAA.

Policy Review

1. Regular Review:
   • NCCAA will review this policy annually to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
   • NCCAA will update the policy as needed to reflect changes in certification process and reporting, legal requirements, and organizational needs.

Amendments to Policy

Any proposed amendments to this policy must be reviewed and approved by the governing board pursuant to the NCCAA policy establishment policy.

Effective Date

This policy is effective as of August 20, 2024.