An overview of certification by the American Certification Council for Medical Rehabilitation Therapists and Specialists.

Abstract

The American Certification Council (formerly Registry) for Medical Rehabilitation Therapists and Specialists has been concerned with the professional recognition and development of rehabilitation therapists and specialists since 1953. Since 1973, the Council has been working to upgrade its registration process to that of certification including the use of an examination. In 1980, the Council obtained Conditional Membership and national recognition in the National Commission of Health Certifying Agencies. During the past year, the Council has begun administering a certification examination and feels that all criteria for Regular Membership in the Commission has been met. The Council and the members still have much to do to improve and refine the certification and recertification programs in the years to come, but the author feels that a positive committment toward the professional growth and development of the various rehabilitation therapy and specialty occupations have already been accomplished.