Addressing Opportunities & Misunderstandings of ASCP International Certification in the Philippines

Introduction/Objective The objective of this study is to identify the positive viewpoints and misunderstandings Filipino applicants have about the BOC’s international credential and credential maintenance programs. With a total of 10,836 MLS(ASCPi) certificants, the Philippines is the BOC’s largest and most successful international certification market. However, despite the Philippines being the BOC’s largest international certification market, the BOC only certifies about a third of eligible Filipino graduates each year. Therefore, to encourage additional interest in achieving BOC credentials and to eliminate misunderstanding surrounding the BOC’s Credential Maintenance Program (CMP), the ASCP BOC International Credentialing Committee created and deployed a survey. The purpose of the survey was to learn as much as possible about the medical laboratory scientist certification market in the Philippines, as well as determine what opportunities Filipino‘s were afforded after they earned their credential. The resulting report based on analysis of the survey results showed there are a number of issues affecting Filipino participation in the BOC’s credential and CMP offerings. Methods/Case Report 422 individuals from 44 countries of education participated in the survey. This study is a summary of results from the 265 Filipino respondents. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) This study confirmed a number of assertions the BOC had about the Filipino credential market. The most important of these assertions is MLS(ASCPi) certification is appealing to Philippine- educated individuals due to its portability (i.e., work eligibility, emigration, etc.). Conclusion The BOC should continue leaning into the portability of MLS(ASCPi) certification, but also needs to do a better job of promoting our other international certifications for which Filipinos may be eligible. The BOC needs to place greater emphasis on educating Filipinos on the importance of CMP and on what can be used for CE towards CMP. For example, the BOC needs to create an outreach campaign that helps Filipino credential holders understand CE earned for their PRC (i.e., Philippines-licensure requirements) can also be used for their CMP. Finally, considering the popularity of BOC certification in the Philippines, the BOC should work on creating more content that focuses on promoting the usefulness of pursing an advanced credential, the portability of certification, and the overall demystification of CMP.

A-13 Stepping into Action: The Role of Neuropsychologists in Social Justice Advocacy

Objective The current pandemic shed a necessary light on chronic systemic inequities. Despite awareness of the importance of diversity, equity, social justice, and advocacy, actionable change has been slow. The field of neuropsychology and psychology were founded on principles of universal rights for all humans, yet it has largely neglected social justice activities. Social justice and advocacy efforts are not universally embedded in education/training curriculums, nor in licensure requirements. If the field is pledging to move towards equity, systemic change is required. We offer practical considerations on how advocacy can lead neuropsychologists toward equity and social justice. Data Selection A review of the literature on racism, social justice, and health/mental health disparities, was conducted in the fields of neuropsychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, medicine, and public health, to form a systems-based approach to advocacy with actionable steps that can be taken by all. Tenents of critical consciousness, transformative learning, transformative justice and socially responsible neuropsychology emerged. Data Synthesis We utilize an ecological systems framework (microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, and macrosystem levels) to provide a graded, developmental approach for transitioning to a social change agent. Recommendations are offered to provide guidance on addressing inequities at multiple levels in an effort to uphold human rights and protection of all. Conclusion Neuropsychology has the opportunity to blaze a new trail that can effectively protect, include, and nurture all of its constituents equitably rather than equally. Transforming our field is possible through stepping into action by equipping our trainees and professionals with the tools to become agents of social change.

A New Era: The Growth of Video-Based Visits for Remote Management of Persons with Parkinson’s Disease

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the abrupt and rapid expansion of an alternative care model that embraces the use of video-based visits in the care of persons with Parkinson’s disease. Video-based visits not only eliminate the risk of infection but also reduce geography- and disability-related barriers to accessing specialist care. Research has established that they are feasible, acceptable to persons with Parkinson’s disease and patient-centered. In the Unites States, the relaxation of licensure requirements, adoption of reimbursement parity and investment in telemedicine infrastructure has enabled the rapid growth of video-based visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, we must turn our attention to ensuring that progress made in expanding access to video-based care is not lost and expanded worldwide. More work is needed to identify the optimal video-based care model, establish best practices, and ensure equitable access to care.