< About the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification

CPC Receives NCCA Accreditation

National Commission for Certifying Agencies

The CPO, CPOA, and CPOT credentials of the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The NCCA accreditation serves as a benchmark on how organizations should conduct certification and clearly distinguishes the excellence and value of CPC certification.

The CPO, CPOA, and CPOT credentials of the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The NCCA is the accrediting body of the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA). The NCCA accreditation serves as a benchmark on how organizations should conduct certification and clearly distinguishes the excellence and value of CPC certification.

To receive the accreditation, CPC submitted an extensive application demonstrating compliance with the strict standards set by NCCA for verifying professional competency. This evaluation included every facet of the CPC certification program that includes administration, test development and security, job analysis, standard setting, eligibility criteria, commissioner responsibilities, ongoing review of all policies and procedures, and verification of reliability and validity of the credential.

There is a new movement sweeping our country; certification. Optometrists and paraoptometrics are getting caught up in the excitement this movement is generating. Doctors are realizing the value of certified paraoptometric personnel in their practices. Certified paraoptometrics demonstrate competence and knowledge to patients instilling confidence in the service and care that is provided. There is an increasing need for paraoptometric certification in optometric practices. Newly emerging technology in eye care puts more demands on the skills of today’s optometrists. In order to effectively meet these demands, doctors are turning to their staff to assist in the routine areas of examinations, contact lenses and special testing procedures. It is imperative that these staff members be fully trained and prepared to accept the duties they are assigned. The CPC has always believed that paraoptometric personnel should be the ones to define their job and to set the standards for demonstration of competency. From the beginning, CPC has sought input in establishing the criteria for certification. Certification requires assessment, testing, and evaluation of one’s education and/or experience.

For information on certification, contact CPC@aoa.org.