As was communicated in the September 2020 CoA Update, programs are advised to follow the guidance offered by their institutional administration, as well as that from the World Health Organizationopens in new window, the U.S. Center for Disease Controlopens in new window, and the state and local health departments in the program’s location in regard to maintaining operations in a manner that reduces risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus. In addition, the office of postsecondary education of the U.S. Department of Education has provided guidance for programsopens in new window that allows flexibility in the methods by which students may continue their education.
The commission continues to support programs in their efforts to determine the best ways for students and trainees to successfully develop knowledge and competencies in accord with program requirements. The CoA’s guidance on our website is effective as long as there are restrictions concomitant with the pandemic’s impact. This information will be updated as decisions are made by the CoA. Please note that current guidance has been updated with recommendations regarding the use of simulations as part of clinical training.
We recognize that this is a stressful time for all stakeholders in education. The CoA continues discussions to formulate guidance regarding accreditation, and the Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation (OPCA) staff are working to communicate this guidance as it is formulated. There may be some questions for which answers are still not immediately known given the evolution of the current situation. Even so, we ask that you contact the OPCA with your questions and know that we will respond as soon as we are able.
