P247 Evaluation of ABHI approved in-house continuing education program

Aim To evaluate the efficacy of continuing education credits (CEC) offered to histocompatibility technical staff. Methods In order to increase continuing education opportunities for a large laboratory staff, we applied for ABHI approval for a lecture series in 2015/2016. A variety of transplant professionals were invited to present to our staff members comprised of 15% CHT and 42% CHS. Applying for ABHI certification allowed staff members to earn.15 CEC for each of the 10 lectures in the series. Speakers included: a member of the local organ procurement organization, a nurse coordinator, laboratory staff members, transplant surgeons, oncologists and university researchers. A survey was distributed to evaluate the staff’s views on the importance and satisfaction of the lecture series. Results Staff members were able to accumulate an average of 6.9 contact hours (range 3–10 h) and earn 1.03 CEC (range.45–1.5 CEC) for the 2015/2016 ABHI approved lecture series. 76% of staff members participated in the survey. 100% of the participants responded that they gained knowledge from the presentations. The technical staff recognized the importance of continuing education by rating it 4.19 out of 5. There are many lectures given on the university campus, but 13 out of 29 respondents said that they did not attend any lectures other than those sponsored by the laboratory. The ABHI approved in-house lecture series was ranked second after ABHI approved meetings for preferred method to obtain CEC. Conclusions Applying for an ABHI approved lecture series is an efficient way to provide staff members with continuing education credits needed to maintain certification. Technical staff have an opportunity to earn over 50% of their required CEC over a three year period. Additionally, staff value continuing education as an important part of their job. The laboratory needs to make an effort to provide staff with continuing education opportunities.