Prove Your Expertise: The Value of AL-CIP Certification in Infection Prevention

Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc.

(Logo credit to CBIC)

The clock is ticking for infection prevention professionals who want to showcase their expertise and leadership in the field. The Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP), offered by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC), is a prestigious certification that recognizes exceptional skills in infection prevention, change management, advocacy, and professional development.

With the February 28^th application deadline fast approaching, this is a unique opportunity for Certified Infection Control (CIC) and/or Long-Term Care Certified Infection Preventionist (LTC-CIP) holders to take the next step in their careers. Unlike traditional exams, AL-CIP is a portfolio-based assessment that highlights real-world leadership and measurable impact on infection prevention and control.

By obtaining AL-CIP certification, infection prevention professionals can enhance their credibility, open doors for career advancement, and align with the highest infection prevention and control standards. Whether leading initiatives in health care settings, improving safety protocols, or mentoring future infection preventionists, this certification validates your expertise and influence in the field.

Infection Control Today^® (ICT^®) contacted several infection prevention professionals with this certification. Read on about one person who has already received the AL-CIP and why it is important to her.

(Check out this article to hear from more infection preventionists who have this certification.

ICT: What are your credentials and your title/facility?

Anees S. Alhenn, MPH, RN, CIC, AL-CIP: My credentials include my bachelor’s degree in nursing and my master’s degree in public health, both from the University of Jordan. Also I have a board certification as an infection control practitioner and hold the board for advanced leadership certification in infection prevention both from the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc, as well as my experience working as a senior infection control specialist at the Center For Infection Prevention and Control (CIPC) in the Ministry of Defense Health Care Services (MODHS) in Saudi Arabia for the last 10 years, and a total of 18 years’ experience in infection prevention and control as a supervisor, then program manager and department director in more than 4 hospitals in Jordan and Saudi Arabia.

ICT: Why did you apply for the AL-CIP?

ASA: I am honored to have been nominated by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology Inc, to join the Beta Test Group as a member of their Test Committee.

ICT: How does obtaining the AL-CIP certification impact your career growth and leadership opportunities as an infection prevention and control professional?

ASA: Obtaining the AL-CIP (Advanced Leadership in Infection Prevention) certification has significantly impacted my career growth and leadership opportunities. It has not only enhanced my technical expertise in infection prevention and control but also strengthened my leadership capabilities, enabling me to make more strategic decisions within my role. This certification has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the advanced practices in infection prevention, which I can apply to improve patient safety and outcomes across health care settings.

Furthermore, it has opened doors for me to take on higher-level leadership roles, where I can influence policy development, drive innovative infection control initiatives, and mentor upcoming professionals in the field. The recognition and credibility that come with the AL-CIP certification have greatly expanded my network and elevated my visibility within the infection control community. Overall, it has been a key factor in advancing my career and positioning me for future leadership opportunities in the field of infection prevention and control.

ICT: What advice do you have for others who want to apply for the AL-CIP?

ASA: First and foremost, make sure to take action and prepare by attending the orientation seminars. Rather than attempting to convince the board by listing all your achievements and contributions accumulated over the years, focus on demonstrating your understanding of the required competencies. The key to proving your competence is not just presenting evidence, but by writing a clear and well-reasoned rational statement that explains the evidence you provide. This approach will undoubtedly highlight your true level of understanding and expertise.