The number of health professionals holding the Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) credential reached 1,000 this month.
This is according to the Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety, which oversees the certification program.
"It is gratifying to know so many health professionals have made the commitment to put their skill and knowledge of patient safety science to the test," said Dr Tejal Gandhi, president of the Certification Board and president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the National Patient Safety Foundation, the board's parent organization.
"We envision a health system where many more physicians, nurses, pharmacists, safety and risk management professionals, leaders, and others will also demonstrate their competence in this important discipline."
Introduced during Patient Safety Awareness Week 2012, the CPPS credential was developed to establish patient safety competency standards and elevate the professional stature of those who meet knowledge requirements in safety science, human factors engineering, and the practice of safe care.
The CPPS examination is the only evidence-based, multidisciplinary examination developed to assess competency in patient safety.
Individuals from across the health care spectrum may sit for the examination providing they possess a baseline combination of education, experience, and a commitment to improving the safety of patient care.
"Whether the patient safety expert is at the bedside, teaching, performing research, or serving in administration, the underlying patient safety concepts are the same," said Kathryn Rapala, who chairs the Certification Board's Expert Oversight Committee. "The CPPS credential sets the standards by which these diverse patient safety professionals can apply patient safety practices and theories."
Certified Professional in Patient Safety, CPPS, US, Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety, Tejal Gandhi