Interested In Certification FAQs

What is a Certified Diabetes Educator?

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Why doesn't NCBDE provide review courses or publish study materials?

As outlined in its Articles of Incorporation and mission statement, NCBDE's responsibilities do not include the creation or development of educational courses or materials. NCBDE believes that offering preparation courses or study materials would constitute a conflict of interest and could imply a guarantee of passing. Individuals will want to review the information NCBDE provides about Preparing for the Examination, including the Examination Content Outline. This information is available on the web site and in the Examination Handbook published annually. NCBDE does have a Practice Examination available that some applicants may find helpful. Click here for more information on the Practice Examination.

Are there professional practice experiences that are not considered diabetes education?

There are activities that are not considered diabetes education employment for purposes of certification eligibility and should not be included as part of Professional Practice Experience. While not an exhaustive list, a list of examples of such activities for those applying can be found in the current year's Handbook.

Who is eligible for certification as a diabetes educator?

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What is diabetes self-management education?

To view the current definition of diabetes self-management education, click here.

Is there a maximum number of hours per week that may be claimed as diabetes self-management education?

Yes, NCBDE has determined that 40 is the maximum number of hours per week in diabetes self-management education (DSME) that may be reported when applying for certification. However, regardless of the number of hours per week worked, it is important that the diabetes educator claim only time spent performing DSME. As in any job, there is a certain amount of time not dedicated to primary responsibilities. Teaching other health care professionals, completing administrative duties, conducting a community health fair screening, are a few examples of other responsibilities that may be not be counted toward meeting professional practice requirements. Other examples are identified under the following FAQ: Are there professional practice experiences that are not considered diabetes education?

How long is certification valid?

NCBDE requires all CDE®s to renew certification every five (5) years. It is the responsibility of the individual certificant to keep abreast of any changes in certification and/or renewal requirements. Valid dates of the credential should be monitored and applications for renewal submitted by published deadlines. Extensions of certification are NOT granted.

When will I hear about the status of my application for the Examination?

Click here to access the Exam Application Status page.

Where can I find information on the Board Certified-Advanced Diabetes Management ("BC-ADM") certification?

NCBDE does not administer or manage the BC-ADM certification program. It is sponsored by the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE). For further information, visit AADE's web site (www.diabeteseducator.org).