Developing a process for credentialing advanced level practice in the pharmacy profession using a multi-source evaluation tool

By Cathrine McKenzie, Mark Borthwick and others on behalf of the expert practice development group of the United Kingdom Clinical Pharmacy Association critical care group

Abstract

Aim

To establish a robust and credible evidence-led system to evaluate and
recognise advanced practice in critical care settings as an example of a
process of practitioner credentialing.

Method

The project group considered a number of evaluation tools to assess
and validate pharmacists aspiring to practise at advanced levels. These
tools needed to be robust, reliable, efficient, evidence-led and
comprehensive. A credentialing panel was proposed to consider
candidates’ evidence of practice and provide a credible end result of
the credentialing process.

Results

A multi-source evaluation was proposed, using portfolio (combined
with viva voce), specialty-based assessment and multiple source peer
review. Each candidate was considered individually by the credentialing
panel using this evidence and mapped against the advanced and
consultant level framework (ACLF) and the critical care curriculum
framework (CCCF). An individual result based on the ACLF was
proposed (using the three levels). The multisource evaluation took
place on a single day (with prior preparation) and was tested on 10
practitioner candidates.

Conclusion

The UKCPA critical care group has devised and tested a process for
recognising advanced-level practice in a clinical pharmacy environment
that fulfilled its pre-defined criteria. Although tested in a critical care
setting, the process has application in all specialties of pharmacy
practice.