MDS Coordinator Certification Program

[Back in The SaddleRN]

Hello everyone! This is my first post on this site. Here's my story, and I would appreciate any guidance or information.

I have been a RN for 23 years and for the last 4 years have taken some time off to pursue other interests outside of nursing. ( a red flag on a resume for sure - but it's true ). I have held many positions in health care, both administrative and clinical. My all time favorite position was that of the MDS coordinator for a 93 bed LTC facility. I fell into the position because of a change up in administration and went from travel nurse to hired on as the MDS person. It was the greatest thing that happened to me. 5 years later I relocated to another state hence I no longer held that position. I found another job in my new state unrelated to MDS which I regret. Now my experience is antiquated.

Here is the question: Is there an MDS Coordinator Cert Program or course from an institution or from any agency for MDS?

Again, I'd appreciate any info.

Thanks! :)

[Bella'sMyBaby]

The AANAC Certification is recognized Nationally.

Some LTC Corporations will pay for their MDS Coordinators to get AANAC Certified.

Good Luck! :)

[ladibug787878]

Hello everyone! This is my first post on this site. Here's my story, and I would appreciate any guidance or information.

I have been a RN for 23 years and for the last 4 years have taken some time off to pursue other interests outside of nursing. ( a red flag on a resume for sure - but it's true ). I have held many positions in health care, both administrative and clinical. My all time favorite position was that of the MDS coordinator for a 93 bed LTC facility. I fell into the position because of a change up in administration and went from travel nurse to hired on as the MDS person. It was the greatest thing that happened to me. 5 years later I relocated to another state hence I no longer held that position. I found another job in my new state unrelated to MDS which I regret. Now my experience is antiquated.

Here is the question: Is there an MDS Coordinator Cert Program or course from an institution or from any agency for MDS?

Again, I'd appreciate any info.

Thanks! :)

I recently became certified thru AANAC. There are usually 2 a year in your state. The certificate is good for 2 yrs. Good Luck!

[silverbat]

there is another program NRAI.com, I think it is that offers certification. Not as expensive as the AANAC one, though, but sounds very good.

[sls73]

I also received my certification through AANAC. I took mine on-line by reading the material and taking the quizes and final at the end. The on-line learning is a self-taught course as you just read/study the materials and take the quizes/tests, but it worked for me. I too had been the RNAC for a few years before doing this course, so it helped for filling in the gaps.

[Back in The SaddleRN]

Thank you everyone for your replies. I researched more and also found that the AANAC is the most comprehensive and widely respected. I appreciate your help.

Thank you much!