What does the Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice application consist of?

The entire application is comprised of five (5) sections: 1) Advanced Practice Leadership, 2) Advanced Practice Infrastructure, 3) Survey (online), 4) Documents & Policies, and 5) Exemplars. Additional details and instructions can be found in the GUIDELINES section HERE.

Why should an organization pursue becoming a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice?

Designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice is a recognition of leading healthcare organizations related to their advanced practice operations and infrastructure, the growth and development of their advanced practice providers (APRNs & PAs), and the resources and environment that supports the fullest, most appropriate utilization and scope of practice. This designation fosters a positive work environment and a sense of pride among the APPs.

Additional benefits include a work environment that attracts and retains top APPs, boosts APP engagement, promotes a strong sense of APP acknowledgement, worth and value, improved staff and patient experience, fosters a collaborative culture, and grows business and financial success.

How much time is allotted for an organization to submit the application?

90 days, beginning from the date payment is received.

Can an organization request an extension to complete the application beyond the 90-day timeline?

Yes, an organization may request one (1) 30-day extension.

Once the application is submitted, how long will the review and decision processes take?

The review process may take up to 90 days. Organizations will be notified of the decision in writing.

How is each section weighted?

Each section of the application is weighted as follows:

I. Advanced Practice Leadership= 20%

II. Advanced Practice Infrastructure= 30%

III. Survey (online)= 15%

IV. Documents & Policies= 15%

V. Exemplars 20%

What does the application review process entail and how are applications scored?

Upon receipt of an application, APPex’s Board of Advisors will thoroughly evaluate all responses, findings, data, documentation, processes, and exemplars. Formulaic, evidence-based criteria have been developed, along with expert opinion and experience of Board members—who are advanced practice executives—to benchmark and determine ratings & standards.

The exacted scoring methodology is proprietary and not disclosed.

Each section is ultimately rated in one of three classifications: “needs improvement”, “acceptable”, or “exemplary”. In order to be designated a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice, the organization must not have any sections denoted as “needs improvement” and must have a majority (3/5) sections scored as “exemplary”.

Is a site visit part of the application process?

Yes, a site visit of 2-3 days is required for an in-person assessment and validation by expert reviewers(s) from APPex’s Board of Advisors.

The cost of the expert reviewer(s) services is included in the application fee. However, the organization is responsible for the reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses including flights, hotels, ground transportation, and meals.

Can an organization appeal a decision if it is not awarded designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice?

No, all decisions are final.

What is the process if an organization is not awarded designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice and wishes to re-apply?

The organization must wait a minimum of one (1) year, beginning from the time the formal decision is issued, before it submits a subsequent application.

How much does is cost to apply to become a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice?

The initial application cost is $8,995. Payment is accepted online (via credit card) and by mail (via check).

How long does an organization maintain its designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice?

Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice designation is awarded for a period of three (3) years. Organizations renewing designation should anticipate and plan to submit a complete renewal application prior to the end date of their designation period.

How does an organization reflect its designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice?

Once designated, organizations will receive a formal award that they may display within their institutions. Additionally, organizations may begin using the official Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice certification mark in print, posters, presentations, and other publications.

Organizations awarded designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice will also be announced and showcased at APPex’s annual conference and be included in the CENTERS section HERE.

Lapel pins—a gold APPex shield, denoting a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice—are available as way to recognize and honor achievement as well. Email info@APPexecutives.org to order.

Are refunds offered to organizations that pay the application fee but fail to submit the application prior to the deadline, or, that are not awarded designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice?

No, application fees are final and non-refundable.

Is preparation (e.g., a mock survey) for designation as a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice available?

Yes, APPex can help assess your organization for its readiness in becoming a Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice. Email info@APPexecutives.org to inquire about further information and details.

Why are APRNs and PAs grouped together as APPs?

The roles of NPs and PAs are incredibly similar, despite some training and regulatory/legal differences. Both are considered types of advanced practice providers.

Why are physician (MDs/DOs) leaders, nursing (RNs) leaders, and other administrators surveyed as part of the designation process?

Insights and understanding of how knowledgeable, aware, participatory, and supportive these other professional roles are of advanced practice within the institution is an important assessment tool of engagement and culture.

What is an exemplar?

An exemplar is descriptive clinical narrative which serves as an example of a model of excellence. Three (3) exemplars are required as part of the Center of Excellence in Advanced Practice application (Section V). The first exemplar is mandatory; organizations may then select two (2) from the remaining seven (7) topics to complete.