The Commission on Professional Credentialing recently announced the launch of a new credentialing for EMS leaders. Chief Robert Staples of the City of Deltona Fire Department in Deltona Florida has successfully completed the process that awards him the professional designation of “Chief EMS Officer” (CEMSO). The Commission on Professional Credentialing met on November 6, 2012 to officially confer the re-designation upon Chief Staples has become only one of 92 nationwide to receive the prestigious designation.
The Chief EMS Officer Designation program is a voluntary program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence and outstanding achievement throughout their career. CMO candidates are evaluated in seven measured components including “Experience, Education, Professional Development, Professional Contributions, Association Membership, Community Involvement and Technical Competencies.” Those candidates exhibiting extensive experience and/or educational backgrounds are eligible for exemption from certain components. The application process not only validates an individual’s prior experience, but it also requires submission of a future professional development plan.
CEMSO candidate portfolios are evaluated by a team of peer reviewers appointed by the Commission on Professional Credentialing, which is the conferring body for the designation.
The designation is valid for three years. Maintaining the designation requires currency in four areas: Professional Development, Professional Contributions, Active Association Membership and Community involvement.
