Practices evolve in line with new evidence-based research, technologies, guidelines and treatments. So it’s important that professionals keep their theoretical and practical knowledge current.
The amount and type of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) you attain is signified in ‘CPD points’.
One of the ways to gain CPD points is through the Mable Learning Hub, where independent support workers can access more than 170 training courses.
What are CPD points and what is their role?
CPD connects an individual with the latest knowledge and skills to help address people’s needs effectively.
CPD points are a standardised measure of the completion of professional development activities a person undertakes. The points provide tangible evidence of the person’s commitment to their ongoing development.
Individuals are required to keep evidence of their CPD for a period of five years.
Access CPD points courses in Mable’s Learning Hub
Mable’s Learning Hub, where independent support workers can access more than 170 training courses, is a great starting point.
To find courses with CPD points in the Learning Hub, search ‘CPD’ or go into ‘Upskilling – advanced’ and click ‘Accredited Training’.
A few examples Mable Learning Hub courses that contain CPD points include:
- Provide behaviour support in the context of individualised plans – 30 mins (2 CPD points)
- Provide support to meet personal care needs – 30 mins (2 CPD points)
- Support older people to maintain their independence – 30 mins (2 CPD points)
- Support individual health & emotional well-being – 30 mins (2 CPD points)
- Follow safety procedures for direct care work – 30 mins (1.5 CPD points)
- Participate in the implementation of individualised plans – 30 mins (1.5 CPD points).
How do CPD points contribute to professional growth and career advancement?
By undertaking continuing professional development activities, an individual can prove their dedication to competence and high standards of practice.
This improves their credibility and shows they can provide quality care and services to individuals.
Many regulatory bodies and professional organisations such as the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and the Victorian Disability Worker Commission (VDWC) expect a particular number of CPD points to be attained within a specific time frame to maintain professional registration within an individual’s sector.
It ensures that the individual remains eligible to practice and maintains their professional standing.
CPD points can open the way for more employment opportunities, including promotions, more specialised roles, and positions of leadership.
Quality as well as quantity
While the number of CPD points a person attains is important, the quality of the professional development they receive also matters.
Individuals should participate in activities relevant to their career goals.
Other ways to gain CPD points
Aside from completing online courses and webinars, there are additional ways to gain CPD points.
- Attend industry-related conferences – Discover the latest research, advancements, and best practices in nursing and allied health. Conferences, workshops, and seminars are excellent networking opportunities, and provide an opportunity to meet with and talk to peers, experts, and thought leaders.
- Professional association membership – As a member of a professional association or organisation, an individual can access mentorship programs, advice, support and other resources.
- Clinical simulations – Participating in clinical simulations can connect an individual with hands-on training in a controlled environment. Working with other professionals who have deeper expertise is an excellent way of being exposed to wider knowledge and experience.
- Volunteering – Work experience and volunteering provide a pathway to practical learning in real-world environments.
Keeping track of CPD points
Individuals must maintain a CPD portfolio of the CPD activities they have completed. They may need to present this if they are audited or provide it to employers or regulatory bodies as evidence of the CPD points they have earned. AHPRA provides this detailed guide to CPD portfolios.
To track completed CPD point courses in the Mable Learning Hub, while you’re in the CPD points folder, click ‘Learning Records’ and then ‘Download Transcript’.
