Frequently Asked Questions
When does this impact me?
The Continuing Competence Initiative formally begins on June 1, 2023. Participation in the initiative has a rolling start date, to coordinate with your recertification cycle:
| Three-Year Recertification Cycle | Start Date |
| June 1, 2023 - May 31, 2026 | June 1, 2023 |
| June 1, 2024 - May 31, 2027 | June 1, 2024 |
| June 1, 2025 - May 31, 2028 | June 1, 2025 |
What do I have to do to meet requirements?
- Complete the Self-Assessment Tool prior to submitting continuing education activities in your record
- Meet requirements for maintaining CDM, CFPP certification (45 CE, nine pertaining to Sanitation/Safety, one pertaining to Professional Ethics)
- Pay annual certification fee
What happens if I don't complete the Self-Assessment Tool?
The first time you go to your My Certification page in your record after your new three-year recertification period begins, you will see a message reminding you to complete your self-assessment. You need to complete your self-assessment before you can submit any CE activities or documentation.
What do I do with the Learning Plan from the Self-Assessment Tool?
After you complete your self-assessment, you will receive a suggested learning plan that indicates general areas in which continuing education is needed, based on the responses you provided in your self-assessment. The learning plan is information that should be used as a guide in prioritizing continuing education opportunities to meet your learning goals.
What if my goals change?
Having goals is important to career growth, and periodically reviewing and revising those goals is essential to ensure that your roadmap to reach your goals is still pointed in the right direction. If you change jobs or your interests within your field changes, your goals may need to be tweaked. It’s a good idea to complete the self-assessment again and receive a new learning plan based on your current goals.
Why did the CBDM decide to do this?
Moving from a Continuing Education model for recertification to a Continuing Competence model is intended to not only increase awareness but encourage credential holders to examine their own individual needs and plan/select their continuing education activities to meet those needs. This is the primary goal.
Continuing competence embraces demonstrating specific levels of knowledge, skills or abilities not only at the time you become certified, but as you progress throughout your career, and encompasses your changing needs. Continuing to be competent within the industry and your job means you deliver best practice results and have greater credibility with employers, surveyors and colleagues. A continuing competence model is a best-practice method of recertification, especially in the healthcare arena, and demonstrates currency in your field.