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How do I download and view PDF files?
Try right-clicking on the link, then choose “save as...” Save the document to your desktop (or put it in a folder where you can later find it). Then double click on the item to launch it. It is important that you not try to open the document with Microsoft Word or any application other than Adobe Acrobat.

If problem persists, download the latest version of Adobe Reader.

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How are certification, registration, and membership different?
Certification by the ASCP Board of Registry requires completion of the eligibility requirements and successful completion of the appropriate certification examination. Individuals who become certified in 2004 and beyond will be required to maintain their certification through the Certification Maintenance Program (CMP) every 3 years.

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How much does the Certification Maintenance Program cost?
The fee for the CMP is $50, and is subject to change without notice.

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Does the ASCP provide a list of agencies that offer continuing education?
The Board of Registry currently has a partial list of agencies, which it continually updates. Individuals are responsible for locating the agencies that meet their activity requirements.

*Due to the large volume of continuing-education programs, we cannot accommodate requests for individual program approval.

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Can I start the program before my assigned date?
Points accumulated toward certification maintenance must be obtained during the 3-year period of certification validation.

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Should I submit my CMP exams and certificates all at once or as I receive them?
Please do not submit any documentation unless it is requested. Documentation will be requested only if you are chosen to be audited.

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Who is required to participate in the CMP?
The CMP is only required for individuals in the following categories who were certified in 2004 and beyond: Phlebotomy Technician Cytotechnologist Apheresis Technician, Technologist in Blood Banking, Donor Phlebotomy Technician, Technologist in Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Technician, Technologist in Hematology, Histotechnician, Technologist in Microbiology, Medical Technologist, Technologist in Molecular Pathology, and Histotechnologist

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If I received my ASCP certification prior to January 2004, what years of my activities will be accepted if I choose to apply for the CMP?
Points would be awarded for activities completed within the 3 years prior to submitting your declaration form.

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What happens if I don’t participate in the CMP?
Beginning in 2004, certifications are valid for a 3-year period. Unless they participate in the CMP, individuals’ certification will become invalid after the certification-validation date indicated on their certificate.

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Is the CMP used to ensure ASCP membership?
ASCP membership is voluntary. ASCP offers two categories of membership (Registrant and Associate) for non-physician, Board–of–Registry-certified individuals. Certification and maintenance of certification are not contingent upon membership in ASCP.

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How will certification be verified for those who were certified after 2004 but have not complied with the CMP?
ASCP staff will verify certification category and the certification-validation period.

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Why doesn’t the CMP include those taking exams for specialties?
Specialist examination committees are in the process of considering this requirement for their constituencies.

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What is expected of California cytotechnologists in order to maintain their ASCP CT certification?
Cytotechnologists certified in January 2004 or later will be required to complete 36 points of continued competency activities every 3 years. Activities accepted by the California State Licensure Board will be accepted for the CMP.

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Are international courses accepted for the CMP?
Coursework taken outside of the U.S. or Canada are not accepted. We will, however, accept courses approved by the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS).

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