1. Is not teaching or associated with any aspect of the educational training program leading to the certification examination.
2. A teacher who has not taught any nutrition program associated with the certification coursework for over two (2) years is eligible.
3. No certificant may run for a position on the Examining Committee if they hold any administrative or policy making position with any college, university, institution, foundation or agency where a postgraduate nutrition program is approved by the ACBN for any part of the certification program.
4. Teachers, who are not involved with the educational training of the certification program are eligible to run.
5. Shall not be an officer of any other nutrition organization without the expressed approval of the Board.
6. Shall have been a certificant in good standing for two (2) consecutive years prior to running for a position on the Examining Committee.
7. Examining Committee candidates may have been involved in research or have published articles or papers in recognized journals.
   1. All qualified certificants, by way of letter from the Election Committee, shall have their names submitted to the Secretary of the ACBN who will place their names on a ballot to be mailed to all certificants who are in good standing for a vote.
   2. After a time determined by the Board, all votes will be counted by the Election Committee.
   3. The certificant(s) with the highest recorded number of votes shall be placed on the Examining Committee.
   4. The Board shall reflect the core standards as presented or amended by the accreditation agency.

1. The Board will be autonomous and have the authority to supervise the collection and disbursement of its funds and enter into contacts, to collect examination fees, annual certification fees, recertification fees (performed every three years) and other fees that may be required by the Board (see Finances:  fees and expense)
2. To provide sufficient support personnel, consultants and other non-staff resources to sufficiently supplement the needs of the ACBN, and the knowledge and skills needed of its staff.
   1. The Board will hire (and fire) support personnel such as an administrator, secretaries or others as needed for the necessary operation of  the ACBN.
   2. The Board shall use volunteers and consider stipends when indicated.
   3. Resources shall also extend to the purchase of equipment such as computers and other office needs.
3. The Board shall provide two or more Examining Committee members  for the purpose of conducting an examination.
1. The chairperson of the Examining Committee will be a member from the Executive Committee.
2. Examining Committee members must have undergone a minimum of one (1) year of training in all aspects of examination procedures by prior Examining Committee members and participate in the actual examination process.
3. Examining Committee members shall sign a confidentiality form attesting to the security of the examination and of maintaining confidentiality to all documents in the candidate’s files.
4. Examining Committee members appoint the Executive Board.
5. The Examining Committee shall hire or ask for volunteers to proctor the examination.  No proctor may be an instructor of, or be involved in, the educational certification training, or hold an administrative or policy making position with any college, university, institution, foundation or agency where a postgraduate nutrition program is approved by the ACBN for any part of the certification program. 
4. To keep legible and dated records of all examinations in a secure location for seven (7) years.
   1. Records may not be reviewed or examined by anyone who has not signed a statement of confidentiality.
   2. A request to review a candidate’s file by anyone other than the candidate  must obtain written approval from the Examining Committee first.
   3. Records of a candidate may be reviewed by the candidate upon receiving a written, signed request to the Board.
   4. After seven (7) years, the examination and grade scores shall be destroyed.
   5. If any material is to be stored electronically, it shall be retained indefinitely.
5. The Board shall issue certificates to candidates who successfully pass the ACBN Examination designating them as Board Certified and/or as a Diplomate of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition.
   1. Results of the examination shall be sent by certified mail to the candidate six (6) to eight (8) weeks after having taken the exam.  Instructions will be included with the results outlining the obligations of the certificants if they are successful, and a process  to remedy deficiencies if they are not successful.  (See Test Administration, also Grievances and Appeals).
   2. All certificates shall be mailed to successful candidates within three months after scoring is completed.
6. To initiate a job survey (field study) and a delineation study every five (5) years in order to design and construct examinations to update education and training requirements and make recommendations to organizations sponsoring training for the candidates.
   1. Board shall develop or hire consultants to develop a field study that will be sent to all certificants in good standing to determine current job description trends every other year.
   2. Every five (5) years, in preparation for reaccredidation and to assure quality assurance of testing mechanisms, a delineation study shall be performed.  The Board shall develop or hire a consultant group to execute this task
7. To design and construct all phases of the examination in clinical nutrition. (See Test Development)
8. To assure validity and reliability of certification examination through rigorous and statistical analysis. (See Test Development)
9. To consider for approval, nutrition programs for certification, recertification and continuing education for certificants. The Board will have the authority to approve or disapprove seminars towards recertification and/or recredentialization.
   1. Certification Programs
      1. Approval means that all educational training for the 300 credit hour certification program shall be through a college, university, institution, foundation, or agency that holds status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or holds a reciprocal agreement with that recognized agency.
      2. The certification program must demonstrate that the candidate has achieved a minimum of 300 credit hours of nutrition.
      3. All organizations providing the educational training for the certification program shall be provided a list of recommended module topics, and a list of topics that shall be covered on the examination. Instructors shall be provided a list of suggested modules of instruction and topics covered on the examination.
      4. Instructors will be provided a list of policies regarding the ACBN.  (See Instructor Policies)
   2. Recertification – All certificants will comply with the annual certification renewal protocols.
   3. Continuing Education
1. A lecture or seminar must cover some aspect of nutrition.
2. The lecture or seminar must be sponsored through a college, university, institution, foundation, or agency that holds status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency.
3. All speakers must demonstrate to the Board sufficient expertise in the subject matter they are lecturing on. This shall be accomplished by submitting a curriculum vitae, and course outline to the Board.
4. No more than 25% of the seminar shall be presented by speakers who interject any sponsoring vendor products or materials within the lecture.
5. A certificate of completion must be sent to the Board within three months, for each candidate that requests such documentation.
6. Speakers shall be requested to submit a minimum of twenty (20) questions / answers to the Board with references, to be considered for future test construction by the Board.
10. To publish for all stakeholders, a directory of certificants and their status.
    1. A published directory shall be provided to all new certificants and any stakeholders requesting a directory of certificants.  The directory shall list all certificants and their status.
    2. All certificants will be listed on an unrestricted web site that shows their status.
11. To accept graduates of approved nutrition programs having a minimum of 300 Credit hours and holding a professional doctoral degree to sit for the ACBN examination providing the college, university, Institution, foundation, or agency holds status with the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized Agency.  (See candidates  for certification requirements)
12. The ACBN shall maintain direct protection of essential certification decisions from undo influence. Complaints of undo influence are directed to the Grievance and Appeals Committee.
13. The ACBN shall not be responsible for the accreditation of educational or training programs or courses of study leading to the certification of Diplomate of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition.
    1. The ACBN shall only provide suggestions as to what topics of instruction shall be covered on the examination.
    2. The ACBN shall keep a list of instructors who have voluntarily submitted an application to the Board expressing interest in teaching. The Board shall provide this list of instructors to any school considering teaching the certification program.
14. To appoint and establish committees for the proper functioning of ACBN activities.   
15. To establish procedures for grievances, adjudication and removal of certificants and/or Board Members.

1. The ACBN is registered with the IRS as a not for profit 501(c)6 organization. This allows the ACBN the flexibility to enter into various educational areas such as research and scholarships, as well as soliciting funding and grant acquisitions.
2. Fiscal Management
   1. The Board shall select, appoint, or hire a Treasurer to manage the day to day fiscal activities of the Board.  The Board shall appoint a treasurer from the pool of certificants of the examining Committee, from the Board of Directors, or hire an outside source.
   2. The Board shall provide bonding of all officers having responsibility for Board Funds.
   3. The Board hall maintain a checking account in the same state of legal registration, or in a bank in any other state that has representation in the state of registration. The ACBN is legally registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia. 
   4. Two (2) executive board members may be required to approve all checks. This may be through written approval via fax.
   5. All executive board members shall be eligible to sign checks. However, the Treasurer shall be the responsible member for the physical maintenance of the checks themselves. At the direction of the Board, certain Board members shall have access to an ACBN credit card. Use of the ACBN credit card shall require approval by another Board member.  In addition, a copy of the original Invoice purchase(s) must be sent to the Treasurer for his records.
   6. All tax forms for a 501(c)6 organization shall be filed annually by the treasurer or CPA.
   7. The fiscal year shall run from January 1 through December 31 of each year.
   8. The Board shall meet within the first two (2) quarters of the fiscal year to approve a budget for that year.
   9. All contracts for services requested by the Board shall be subject to Board approval prior to enactment of the contract.
3. Fees and Expenses
   1. Fees
1. Examination fee - $995.00 non-refundable and required at the time of submitting application to sit for the ACBN examination.
3. Re-examination fee–
1. Should a candidate wish to retake any part of the ACBN examination for any reason, there is a $300 non-refundable application fee.
2. In addition to the application fee, a fee of $150 is assessed for each of the two (2) parts of the examination to be retaken.
3. All fees must have been paid prior to being declared eligible to sit for a retake examination.
4. Re-scoring fee - $50.00 upon a candidate’s request of an appeal to rescore their examination.  The Examination Committee then hand scores their examination.
5. Annual Certification Fee - $250.00.  This fee provides for the working capital of the ACBN.
1. The annual fee must be received by January 1 st of each year.
2. A fee statement will be sent out early October.
3. Two (2) reminder statements will be mailed; one early November and a final reminder in December.
4. If the appropriate fee(s) is not received by January 1 st of the new fiscal year, a letter advising the certificant that a late fee charge (reinstatement fee) of $500 will be assessed. in addition to the annual certification fees, if the fees are not received by the 31 st day of January of the new year.
5. Failure to pay the annual fee and reinstatement fee after an additional thirty (30) days (the end of February of the New Year) will automatically cause the certificant to be de-credentialized. A certified letter will advise the certificant that they have lost certification. The certificants may appeal to  the Grievances and Appeals Committee.     
6. Disabled or Retired Fee – (INACTIVE) A certificant who is disabled or retired and not in active practice, and providing evidence of such, is considered decertified and will  be listed as “inactive” on the website. Certificants who are decertified (inactive) have no fee obligations.
7. Reinstatement of disabled or retired certificant – The Board will
8. consider, upon the written request of the Diplomate, reinstating their certification on a case by case basis. The Board may require the Diplomate take a number of continuing education courses and/or retake one or both parts of the ACBN examination.
9. Administrative Re-credentialing Fee – Should a certificant fail to comply with the annual educational requirement s in any given year, and by written request from the certificant, the Board will consider, on a case by case basis, the certificant’s explanation as to the reasoning for the failure to comply with the annual educational requirements. The Board may decertify the certificant as not having complied with the policies and procedures of the ACBN. The certificant may appeal this decision. The Board may also consider levying an administrative cost of $500 and require the certificant attend ACBN approved seminars for the next two consecutive years.            
10. All fees may be changed at the discretion of the Bard.
2. The Board shall be entitled to reimbursement of all reasonable,  necessary and customary expenses incurred in the conduct of business.
3. The Board shall determine expense provisions for its committee members, designated associate examiners and support staff during each examination period.                     
4. The Board shall provide expense provisions for its members and designated reviewers for the curriculum reviews of educational and training courses.
5. The Board shall provide for public information expenses including web site and web mastering fees, printing costs and dissemination of information to the public costs.
6. The Board, at its discretion, shall provide any stipends it deems necessary and or appropriate.
4. Grants, Research and Funding
1. A committee shall review written request and advise the Board as appropriateness, need and availability of funds.
2. All contracts shall be subject to Board approval prior to enactment of any grant, research or other program.
3. The Board may enter into any research program that is grant funded so long as it does not present conflict of interest in the certification or accreditation responsibilities of the Board.    
4. All revenue and expenses for grants, or research shall be maintained separately from the general operating expenses of the Board.
5. The bookkeeping system shall be in good accord with Uniform Grants Management Standards and IRS non-profit regulations.
5. Other
1. All contracts for services requested by the Board shall be subject to Board approval prior to enactment of the contract.  This shall include contracts by the Board for services from others or contracts with the Board for the provision of services.  The Board shall make every effort to obtain services from the companies that do not discriminate on any basis.        
2. The Board may enter into a research program that is grant funded so long as it does not present a conflict of interest in the certification or accreditation responsibilities off the Board.  All revenue and expenses for such a project shall be maintained separately from the general operating expenses of the Board.
3. The Board may enter into grants for funds to maintain or expand the capacity of the Board to fulfill its obligations to the public and the profession. These funds shall be maintained separately from  the general operating expenses of the Board
4. The bookkeeping system shall be in accord with Uniform Grants Management Standards and Internal Revenue Service non-profit regulations.
5. The Board shall maintain liability insurance; D’s and O’s, E’s and O’s and an indemnity clause for the purpose of safeguarding the assets of the Board against any legal action.

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VI  CANDIDATES FOR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

1. The applicant shall be a health care professional, holding a professional doctoral degree, who has successfully completed  300 clock hours of specialized postgraduate training in nutrition from a college, university, institution, foundation, or agency holding status with an  accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency, or
2. An applicant shall be a health care professional who has completed a 300clock hour residency in nutrition program from a college, university, foundation, or agency holding status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency.
   1. All residency programs must be approved by the Board.
   2. Residency programs must file with the Board the number of hours of teaching experience, research and training that is performed by the candidate.
   3. A syllabus of the residency program must be submitted to the Board.
3. Candidates eligible to sit for the ACBN examination, other than those in residency programs, must have a minimum of two (2) years practice experience and shall have taken all the courses prescribed by the Board.  In lieu of the two years practice requirement, the candidate must show evidence of having been actively engaged in instructional or research programs In nutrition for a period of two years in a college, university, foundation, institution, or agency holding status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency.
4. The Board will accept candidates for examination only upon the specific recommendation of the sponsoring organization where the specialized nutrition training has taken place.
5. Candidates must have a nutrition oriented article acceptable by the Board for publication in one of the following Board approved journals such as, but not limited to:
1. Nutritional Perspectives
2. Journal of Nutrition
3. JMPT
4. Am. J. Clinical Nutrition
5. J. Chiropractic Medicine
6. Nutrition Reviews or any other peer reviewed, referenced journal acceptable by the Board.

6. A candidate’s and or applicant’s eligibility to sit for the ACBN examination shall be determined by a full review of all information supplied to the Board. If a candidate / applicant is found not eligible to sit for the examination or any part thereof, they shall be notified by certified letter within three (3) weeks of receiving the application and all information.
7. Applicants Right of Appeal. An applicant deemed ineligible to sit for the ACBN examination has the right to appeal the Board’s determination. (See XIV Grievances, Discipline and Appeals.)
8. Eligible applicants wishing to sit for the certification examination shall be required to submit a non-refundable fee to the Board through the  treasurer. 
9. The passing grade for the writing of 3 case histories is 30 out of a maximum of 40 points. The passing grade for the written multiple choice  exam is 99 out of a maximum of 150 questions. An applicant may elect to be re -examined In any of the two (2) parts of the examination by submitting, in writing, a request to do so, accompanied with a non-refundable fee in the amount of $300.  In addition, there is a $150 fee for each part to be taken.
10. If an applicant fails upon three (3) attempts to successfully complete the entire Diplomate certification examination with a passing grade within three (3) years upon submission of the formal application, or three (3) years upon completion of the coursework, at the discretion of the Board, he may, upon application and  submission of the appropriate fees, be granted the opportunity to retake the failed subject area(s) a fourth and final time after a period preceptorship by Diplomate acceptable to the Board for a period of not less than one year, and upon being recommended to the Board as ready by his preceptor.
11. If an applicant should fail a fourth attempt to successfully pass the entire Diplomate examination, it would be necessary for him to submit to taking the entire examination, as well as providing satisfactory evidence of completing an additional one hundred (100) hours of further education in the area of nutrition as prescribed by the Board.
12. The Diplomate examination will be consistent with approved syllabi topics and will consist of:
    1. Submission of three (3) case histories in the approved format.
    2. A two part written examination.
13. Examinations shall not exceed more than four (4) days in duration.  At least sixty (60) days prior to the examination, the Board shall request candidates to provide any special requirements they may need in performing the examination. This shall be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
14. The secretary of the ACBN shall have in the permanent records, the registration numbers assigned to all successful candidates.  These numbers shall be assigned using the candidate’s social security number. Examination papers shall be retained in a safe secure location for three (3) years. This is to include compilation of grade scores.  All documentation in the candidates file shall be appropriately filed and legible.
15. Unsuccessful candidate’s files will be maintained by the secretary for three (3) years. Within that time the candidate may reapply to sit for all or any deficient portions of the examination.  After three (3) years, a candidate must  reapply with a new application.
16. Confidentiality of the examination, candidates’ files and grades is to be maintained. All members of the examining committee, proctors, and aides shall sign an a confidentiality form attesting to maintaining security and confidentiality.
17. Test reporting procedures.  Within six (6) to eight (8) weeks after completion of all required components of the ACBN examination, the candidate shall be sent a certified letter providing the results of his/her testing.  The letter shall:
    1. Advise the candidate whether they have passed or failed.
    2. Provide the candidate a breakdown as to the grades of each part of the entire examination.
    3. Provide the candidate with a course of action to follow to remedy any deficiencies.
    4. Advise the candidate when the next examination will take place.
    5. Advise successful candidates of their duties and obligations as being Board Certified in Nutrition by the ACBN.
18. Results of pass/fail statistics without identifying any candidate shall be published in trade and public journals.
19. Subjects and Topics of Examination
    1. Subjects:
       1. The Biochemistry and Physiology of Nutrition
       2. The Nutrients and their characteristics, functions and metabolism
       3. The diagnostic evaluation in clinical nutrition
       4. Nutritional considerations in clinical Geriatrics
       5. Nutrition in infancy adolescence, pregnancy and lactation
       6. Dietary and nutritional aspects and the general management of general disease:
          1. Oral Cavity
          2. G.I. Tract
          3. Cardiovascular – Pulmonary Disease
          4. Urogenital System
          5. Diabetes Mellitus and Hypoglycemia
          6. Musculo-Skeletal disorders
          7. Fever and Infections
          8. Blood Disorders
          9. Disorders of the endocrine System and Metabolism
          10. Trauma
       7. Nutrition and the Physiology of Stress
       8. Dietary and Nutritional Aspects and Management of                                                       Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Disorders
       9. Nutrient-Nutrient and Drug-Nutrient Interactions and Reactions
       10. Radiographic and Advanced Imaging Diagnosis of Common Metabolic Disorders
       11. Herbs, Botanicals and Homeopathy
       12. Longevity and Nutrition
       13. How to Perform and Write Research Papers
       2. Topics Covered on the ACBN Examination:
       1. Nutritional consultation, case history and physical examination including anthropomorphic measurements.
       2. Nutritionally related biochemistry, physiology and pathology to also  include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, energy metabolism, vitamins, minerals, trace elements and water.
       3. Diagnostic evaluation in clinical nutrition, including functional laboratory analysis by blood, stool, saliva, hair, urine, special studies and radiography.
       4. Geriatrics – anti-aging, longevity and degenerative diseases.
       5. Pediatric nutrition, pregnancy and lactation.
       6. Female nutrition including menarche through menopause. This is also to include male nutrition including prostrate and urological problems.
       7. G.I. nutrition including parenteral nutrition.
       8. Renal nutrition and male specific problems.
       9. Endocrine and metabolic disorders, including stress.
       10. Sports nutrition including trauma.
       11. Musculo-skeletal disorders and syndromes.
       12. Neurological and psychiatric disorders including  neurotransmitters and neuromodulators.
       13. Herbs, botanicals, and homeopathy, nutrient-nutrient, drug-nutrient and herb-drug interactions.
       14. How to write a scientific paper/case history for publication and perform literature searches.
       15. Allergies and immunological disorders including HIV/AIDS and infections. 
       16. Cardiovascular and pulmonary nutrition.
       17. Bariatrics including obesity, weight loss and eating disorders.
       18. Psychology of nutrition, food preparation and public issues.
       19. Cultural, religious and ethnic dietary concerns.

T.  Grandfathering – The ACBN does not Grandfather.

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VII  CANDIDATE PROCESSING

1. Once the applicant has submitted all application information to the Board,  the Board shall review and advise the applicant if they are Board eligible  documents to include are:
1. Formal application
2. Non-refundable certified check in the amount of $995
3. A signed attestation form
4. An article that is nutritionally oriented having a minimum of ten (10) references and approved by the Board
5. Two (2) passport size pictures
6. Statement of need (any disabilities the Board may need to address)
2. Upon review, the Board shall advise the candidate if they are complete in the application.
   1. Within three (3) weeks of receiving the application, the  candidate shall be advised by certified letter if there are any deficiencies that need to be addressed.
   2. The candidate shall be advised as to the location and time the next examination shall take place.  The Board shall determine the time and location of examinations.
   3. Examination shall take place when there is a minimum of six (6) qualified  candidates.
   4. The candidate shall be advised as to elements of the examination and of the topics it will cover.
   5. The candidate shall e advised that submission of three (3) case histories must be submitted to the Board three (3) months prior to sitting for the examination.
3. Candidate Handbook – Once a candidate is declared “Board Eligible” which means they are qualified to sit for the ACBN examination, they shall be sent a Candidates Handbook which will contain:
   1. An explanation of the ACBN examination, detailing the two (2) parts of the exam, how the exam is made, what to expect, etc.
   2. A check list of points to consider when writing case histories.
   3. A review of obligations a candidate must adhere to if they re successful in becoming certified by the ACBN.
   4. A copy of the ACBN Policies and Procedures.
   5. A copy of the Bylaws

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VIII  JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. A Certificant must be a health care provider holding a professional degree such as an MD, DO, DC, Ph.D. who has been trained and examined in their respective discipline and is legally licensed in the state, province or country in which they practice the duties they were trained in.
2. A Certificant must have completed specialized training in clinical nutrition from any college, university, institution, foundation, or agency that holds status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency.
3. Certificant must be able to demonstrate clinical competency by examination.
4. Certificant must be able to communicate appropriately with all stakeholders.

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IX   CANDIDATE INFORMATION AND CREDENTIALING

1. Directory of Certificants
   1. A written directory that will show the certificants name, business address, state, business phone number, fax number and email address, if available.
   2. Website directory. The website directory shall provide the same information as the written copy. In addition, it will show any disciplinary measures and current status.
2. Candidate Handbook – All candidates will be provided a handbook that explains the examination process. This will include the application forms writing of case histories, topic areas that will be examined. It will also include obligations, bylaws, policies and procedures. Candidates will be required to read and sign several forms.
   1. Attestation form
   2. Non-disclosure form
   3. Non-compete agreement/conflict of interest
   4. Participating agreement: This form advises the candidate that as a certificant with the ACBN, they will agree and abide by the ACBN Bylaws, shall maintain appropriate malpractice insurance, will Agree not to indulge in any unfair restraint of trade issues.
   5. Understanding of Certification Termination clause. Policies and Procedures and other forms will be updated and expanded as needed with notations placed at the bottom of each page showing the date of the upgrade.
3. Recertification – Recertification is annually meeting the requirements set forth in (I)Obligations of Certificants (below).
4. Publication of Outcomes
   1. The Board shall provide all agencies that sponsor the 300 clock hour training program, a list of their candidates that were successful and unsuccessful once the examination has been executed.
   2. Outcomes will be published in the President’s Annual Report.
   3. Outcomes will be published in both the ACBN Newsletter and on the ACBN website.
   4. Confidentiality shall be maintained as to the identity of all candidates.
5. Annual Report – The President of the ACBN shall provide an Annual Report to the certificants, the previous year’s activities, including income and expenses, accreditation and any other activities of the ACBN. This shall be placed on the ACBN website. A published copy will be mailed to all active certificants.
6. Website
   1. The ACBN website is www.acbn.org
   2. The ACBN shall maintain a website by using or hiring a webmaster.
   3. Information on the ACBN website pertaining to the list and addresses of certificants, status (active or inactive) shall be available to the public.
   4. The website will be kept current and accurate.
   5. Aggregate data reports will be available on the website, using only a certificate’s pin number for identification, and for confidentiality.
7. Newsletter
   1. The ACBN shall publish a Newsletter once every three (3) months, or as often as necessary to keep all stakeholders abreast of ACBN activities.
   2. The Newsletter shall be mailed or emailed to all active certificants as part of their annual certification fee.
8. Email Address – The ACBN shall maintain an email address. This is currently conacbn@shentel.net
9. Duties and Obligations of Certificants
   1. Must have paid the yearly (annual) certification fee.
   2. Must satisfy yearly educational requirements:
      1. Must attend, at least every other year, an ACBN approved educational seminar consisting of a minimum of 12 CCE credits.
      2. On the “off” year that the certificant is not attending an ACBN approved educational seminar consisting of a minimum of 12 CCE credits, he/she must submit to the Board evidence of any of the following:
         1. Actively engaged in teaching nutrition or research in nutrition at an accredited college, university institution, foundation, or agency that holds status with the U.S. Department of Education. Actively engaged means that a minimum of 12 credit hours are being taught.
         2. Submit a paper on nutrition for publication with a minimum of ten (10) references.
         3. Submit at least two (2) case histories suitable for publication the appropriate format.
         4. Submit evidence of attending a twelve (12) CCE credit hour seminar on nutrition sponsored by any college, university, institution, foundation, or agency that holds status with the U.S. Department of Education. The twelve (12) hours of CCE credit required by the ACBN may be acquired by attending multiple approved seminars adding up to twelve (12) hours.
10. All certificants will keep the ACBN informed of any and all changes in address, telephone, etc.

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X TEST DEVELOPMENT

1. All examination material is copyrighted material of the ACBN. No reproduction or duplication of the material is permitted unless authorized by the ACBN. All draft materials utilized by the examination committee are kept secured and inventoried regularly.
2. All examination committee members must sign confidentiality agreements when generating or reviewing examination materials. Any material considered unusable is shredded prior to disposal.
3. All duplication of examination material is to be done in a closed environment under secure arrangements. All test documents utilized by exam candidates have unique control numbers. Any examination materials delivered to an examination site by courier service have an inventory list that is signed off prior to delivery and upon opening. Once used and repackaged for courier shipment, the inventory list is completed and initialed again.
4. All candidates are examined utilizing the same form of the comprehensive written exam and case histories. No equivalent forms of the competency evaluation are needed.
5. All test material shall be in English. Written translation of the competency evaluation (examination) is not available. No adaptations of the evaluation material is utilized at this time.
6. Accommodations for candidates with disabilities are dealt with on an individual basis in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
7. Every five (5) years, the population of certificants will be randomly selected to participate in a field study to determine the appropriateness of test questions.
8. Results of the field study (survey) will then be statistically analyzed by the examination committee or from an outside agency, o be placed into a delineation study.
9. The delineation study, performed every five (5) years will determine the percentage of questions of topics as a portion of the whole. This shall be performed by the examination committee or from an outside agency.
10. Test items utilized in the examination have been keyed to an examination blueprint and validated by the collective judgment of the subject matter experts utilized as item writers, as well as source documents from the nutrition field. In addition, instructors of the training programs shall be requested to submit a minimum of twenty (20) questions per unit they teach, along with the reference text, page and paragraph of the test question. All these activities will be collected under the direction of a consultant psychometrician and a grammarian, subject standards acceptable to accrediting agency.
11. A panel may be utilized outside the examination committee to review the work
12. of the examining committee.
13. Item Writing–
    1. To become a qualified item writer, the interested professional must attend instructional seminars provided by accreditation service organizations such as NOCA on how to write, verify and document test questions.
    2. All item writers will maintain item writing skills by attending accrediting agency sponsored seminars on these subjects minimally every three years.
    3. Item writers shall obtain their material item development from, but not limited to:
       1. Course work instructors
       2. Research journals
       3. Scientifically evidenced textbooks
       4. Peer reviewed articles
    4. Once item writers have developed appropriate questions and answers, the items are then to be reviewed by unbiased, qualified, subject matter experts for any content error or bias.
    5. Subject matter experts shall consist of any person(s) with appropriate
    6. degrees and experience in the field of nutrition in an academic institution not actively sponsoring the 300 hour nutrition Diplomate Program.

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XI TEST ADMINISTRATION

1. All candidates are examined utilizing the same form of the examination. There are no equivalent forms.
2. A minimum of two examining committee members and as many proctors as needed will execute the examination.
3. All proctors will sign confidentiality statements to secure the privacy of the examination.
4. All candidates will test at the same location, date and time as determined by the Board.
5. All examining committee members will be familiar with the Examiner’s Training Manual.
6. All candidates will be assigned a four (4) digit pin number that will be the means of identification on all examination forms as well as reporting and for publication on the ACBN website. This is to ensure confidentiality.
7. Candidates will be seated in such a way as to reduce any question of impropriety
8. Tests will be placed down on the candidate’s desk and when all tests have been handed out, the examiners will start the test.
   1. Written Exam
      1. There are two parts to the written exam, each containing seventy-five (75) multiple choice questions for a total of one hundred fifty (150) questions. There is only one correct answer.
      2. Answers are placed on a separate score sheet, detached from the examination questions.
      3. Identification of each answer sheet shall be by using the candidate’s Social Security number only.
      4. A forty-five (45) minute break is provided between Part I and Part II of the written exam.
      5. Each part (Part I and Part II) is allotted two (2) hours.
      6. Once a candidate is finished with the written exam, they shall leave the examining area.
   2. Case Histories
      1. Case histories are taught by the schools teaching the 300 hour certification program.
      2. Points to be considered when performing a case history are provided in the candidate’s Handbook that is given to a candidate upon completion of their application.
      3. All candidates must perform three (3) case histories.
      4. Three (3) months prior to the written examination, the candidates must have submitted one (1) hard copy and 3 CDs of their case histories to the examining board for grading.
      5. A point system has been developed to assess the management of a case history. This point system is developed from the delineation study showing the 6 domains and required tasks involved with each.
9. Role Delineation and Field Studies (These studies are available upon request)
10. Cut Score, Statistics and Quartile
    1. The examining committee shall establish the passing point of the examination. This is performed by meetings with a professional testing service specializing in the development of licensure and certification examinations. The ACBN currently employs Castle Worldwide.
    2. All examining committee members must undergo a training program on cut score methodology when offered by accreditation services organizations such as NOCA minimally every five years.
    3. The use of a Scantron or other grading and scoring devise will be used to provide accurate mean, median, mode and averages data reports.
    4. Specifics of Cut Scoring
       1. Written Examination
          1. The 150 (one hundred fifty) questions are distributed into two sections of 75 questions each according to the delineation study as follows: Domain % of Test # of Questions History 22.97% 34 Examination 16.59% 25 Assessment 16.25% 24 Diagnosis 11.24% 17 Treatment 19.65% 30 Follow-up 13.39% 20 100.00% 150
          2. The combined minimum passing score on both sections of the written multiple choice exam is 99.
       2. Written Case Histories – These are actual, written, presentations of patients with a health problem, seeking help from a health care provider. The history follows the health care providers complete management of the presenting case from initial visit to follow-up and release.
          1. Three (3) case histories are submitted by the candidate to be examined two months prior to the written examination date.
          2. The case histories are graded by a minimum of three (3) examiners who have been trained on the methodology of case history writing. (The writing of case histories is one of the required courses in the 300 hour Diplomate course work.) Examiners will be required to attend training sessions on how to grade case histories, establishing cut scores and the rationale for such. This will be performed by the Board every two years.
          3. Management includes, but is not limited to:
             • Personal and family history.
             • Medicine and pills
             • Food allergies
             • Surgeries
             • Food likes and dislikes and why
             • Diet diaries such as a seven (7) day diet or twenty-four hour recall
             • Exercise habits
             • Liquid consumption
             • Presenting symptoms including those of possible nutritional contribution
             • Anthropometric assessment
             • Examination findings – nutritional physical, laboratory, x-ray, etc.
             • Diagnosis – initial, working and final
             • Treatment program and rationale
             • Progress
             • Follow-up or outcomes
          4. Grading Case Histories
             • Each examiner is randomly assigned case histories identified only by the candidate’s four (4) digit pin number.
             • Each case history is reviewed and grade by three (3) examiners.
             • Grading results are tabulated using a standard form (See Examiner’s Training Manual).
             • The minimum passing score for the combined case histories is
             • 30 out of a maximum of 40 points.

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XII TEST SECURITY

1. All examination materials, including draft materials, electronic forms, reports, answer sheets, and data analysis files are to be retained in a secure location and inventoried in great detail for legal defensibility purposes.
2. All validation materials, including the production of job analysis data, content specifications, examination blueprints, and source documents are retained, inventoried and controlled with limited access in a secure location.
3. Personnel of the Board, identified Board Members, and the consultant(s) will have access to the assessment instruments and associated data.
4. Documentation logs will be kept outlining who is assessing which materials on specific dates and times.
5. All assessment materials, test materials, answer sheets, blueprints and source documents will have control numbers for quality control and security purposes.
6. Electronic forms shall be backed up routinely and all efforts to safeguard electronic data, such as firewalls will be used.
7. Printed material will be maintained for seven (7) years, after which they will be shredded prior to disposal.
8. Personnel of the Board, identified Board members and consultant(s) must sign a confidentiality form prior to securing any test or candidate information.
9. All candidates are assigned a four (4) digit pin number to ensure confidentiality.
10. Examinations will be sealed by the examiners responsible for the examination, to be broken only by those same examiners that sealed the tests, and by affixing their signature, attest to the security of the exam.

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XIII TEST SCORES AND SCORE REPORTING

1. Grading
   1. The written examination is a two (2) part multiple choice question test. Grading of the two parts of the ACBN written examination is through a Scantron or other grading devise. This shall be performed either by examining committee members who are qualified and trained in using a Scanton, or similar devise, or shipped to a psychometrician for grading. Each examination sheet is machine scored. After scoring a roster of candidate scores for each examination or sections of the examination is generated. After the rosters have been generated, a determination of passing and failing scores is made based on the predetermined cut score.
   2. Case Histories are actual presentations of patients with a health problem, seeking help from a health care provider. The case history follows the health care professional’s complete management of the presenting case from initial visit to the follow-up and release.
      1. A point system for grading case histories has been established.
      2. Each case history is graded by a minimum of three (3) examiners of the examining committee. No examiner shall discuss any case history with another examiner. Examiners are required to attend classes on grading procedures and rationale for such, minimally, every five (5) years.
      3. An inter-rater reliability study will be performed every 5 years and all examiners will be versed on its application.
      4. In addition to the point system, the examiner may look for presentation, format, and thoroughness of history taking extent of depth and breath of the diagnosis. Treatment may be compared to acceptable mainstream protocols and treatment programs.
2. Scoring
   1. Case histories: The average score of all three case histories is the score for that portion of the ACBN examination. The cut score of the case histories is 30 out of a possible 40 points.
   2. Written multiple choice exam. The cut score for the written multiple choice exam is 99 out of a maximum of 150 points.
   3. The two parts of the ACBN, the case histories and the multiple choice examination must be passed independent of each other. Example for the Written Exam delineation breakdown Domain % of Test # of Questions History 22.97% 34 Examination 16.59% 25 Assessment 16.25% 24 Diagnosis 11.24% 17 Treatment 19.65% 30 Follow-up 13.39% 20 TOTAL QUESTIONS 150
   4. Score Reports – all reports and aggregate data reports are confidential and can only be published using the candidate’s four (4) digit pin number.
   5. Summaries of Data Reports – will be made available to stakeholders on the ACBN website and in the DACBN Report. All summaries will use the Candidate’s four (4) digit pin number for confidentiality.

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XIV GRIEVANCES, DISCIPLINE AND APPEALS

1. Grievances and Appeals – If a grievance or dispute arises from a Board Action, the following actions are to take place.
   1. Applicant’s Right of Appeal. An applicant deemed ineligible to sit for the ACBN examination has the right to appeal the Board’s determination. Once the secretary has received a written request for an appeal of the Board’s eligibility determination, the Board will appoint 3 Board members not associated with the initial determination. This ad hoc committee will meet within 4 weeks of the request, to consider the appeal. The applicant should supply new information for the committee to consider. The committee’s decision will be sent to the applicant by certified mail within 2 weeks of the meeting.
   2. Appeal of Examinees Score – Any candidate receiving a validated failing grade has the right to appeal: Rescoring by Hand:
      1. Rescoring requests must be submitted to the Board, in writing, and received by the Board no later than sixty (60) days following the release of the candidate’s original score.
      2. A non-refundable rescoring by hand fee of $50.00, made payable to the ACBN must accompany the request to rescore each part of the examination.
      3. Requests received after sixty (60) days of release of the original score will not be honored.
      4. Hand scoring of any previous examinations will not be honored.
      5. Candidate will receive the hand scored results within four (4) weeks.
   3. Administrative Adjudication
      1. Complainant shall specifically state the complaint in writing and submit this document to the Grievance Committee of the Board of Directors.
      2. The Grievance Committee shall respond within thirty (30) days to the complainant.
      3. The complainant shall then have thirty (30) days to respond to the Grievance Committee’s report and submit additional information supportive of his/her complaint.
      4. The committee will have thirty (30) days to respond to the complaint and additional information being submitted. The committee will provide its written final decision at that time.
      5. Grievances against the Board where accreditation issues are concerned must be addressed to the accrediting agency for review.
   4. Appeal to a Full Review Board
      1. Certificant shall request an appeal in writing within thirty (30) days of the Board’s final decision.
      2. An appeals Board will be formed in accordance with American Arbitration Association guidelines.
      3. The chair of the Appeals Board shall be a person designated by the Board. The Appeals Board shall remain neutral and act as a judicial tribunal to hear the appeal. The Appeals Board shall make its presentation concerning the cause(s) of said discipline, and the certificant or representative shall make a presentation concerning the certificant’s disciplinary action. No additional information may be presented to the Appeals Board. The Appeals Board shall make a finding within sixty (60) days of the Appeals hearing.
      4. In order to initiate the proceedings, the certificant shall post
      5. with the Board a bond in the amount of fifteen thousand dollars U.S. funds ($15,000) unless, showing of good cause, the Board determines a lesser amount appropriate.
      6. Any legal action, hearing, or arbitration pursued by a certificant holder must be paid for by the certificant holder.
2. Examinee request for a review of examination
   1. Any examinee wishing a review of any part of the ACBN examination, must request such a review, in writing, to the Board within sixty (60) days after the release of the original scoring results, or within thirty (30) days following the release of the hand scored results, which ever comes last.
   2. Reviews will be held at a Board recommended location.
   3. Requesting examinee will be required to pay any and all travel, lodging and any other expenses incurred by the Board for the review process.
   4. If the examinee requests their personal appearance at the review, they may do so at their own expense.
      1. Examinee may not be accompanied by any attorney or other person in the reviewing room. No reproduction devices such as tape recorders and cameras are allowed in the review room. The examinee is allowed to have found books in the room.
      2. Examinee will be asked to provide identification prior to entering the review room.
      3. Examinee will receive a copy of the test in question and a copy of their answer sheet.
      4. Examinee is given up to one hour to review their test and answers.
      5. Examining Committee members can not defend the examination, attempt to answer any question, or refute any questions during the review process.
      6. Examinee will be provided a Review Form for comments, questions, or claim of error(s) contained in the examination.
      7. The Review Form will be presented to the full Examining Committee for their review.
      8. Results of the examination review will be sent to the examinee within four (4) weeks following the date of the review.
3. Discipline
   1. Certificants are subject to disciplinary measures including, but not limited to complaints of conduct.
      1. Drug and alcohol abuse
      2. Unethical conduct
      3. Fraud and abuse
      4. Violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act
      5. Medicare, Medicaid, Worker’s Compensation sanctions
      6. Sexual misconduct
      7. Felonies
      8. HIPPA violations
      9. Undo influence
      10. Conflicts of interests issues
      11. Failure to maintain malpractice/liability insurance
   2. Procedure
      1. Any stakeholder may file a complaint with the Board by writing a formal letter of complaint, explaining the exact cause for possible disciplinary action from the Board.
      2. The grievance committee, upon completing an investigation of the certificant shall pursue several options.
      3. Complaint is dismissed; no reporting of complaint.
      4. Certificant is issued a reprimand with instructions as how to avoid future reprimands, or further action.
      5. Certificant is de-credentialed. Upon the recommendation of the Grievance Committee, a recommendation of decertification of a certificant must be presented to the full Board for a vote within thirty (30) days of the Grievance Committees’ recommendation. If the Board votes to de-credential the certificant, a certified letter will be sent to that certificant. The certificant has thirty (30) days in which to respond to the Board decision and may appeal the Board’s decision as outlined above, under “appeals”. A certificant who is de-credentialed will be reported by letter in the certificant’s file, announced in the ACBN Newsletter under “Board Actions”, and noted on the ACBN website.
      6. Reinstatement. A certificant may be reinstated either upon a successful appeal, or by introduction of new evidence filed within thirty (30) days of the Board’s decision to de-credential.

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XV Document Maintenance, Security and Confidentiality

1. Structure of the Candidate’s File
   1. All candidate files shall be in a standard format.
   2. No document within the file will be loose. All must be affixed securely in the file using clip fasteners.
   3. File contents will be uniform.
      1. The top sheet is the identifying sheet with the original application and picture. Subsequent pages will be
      2. Recommendation to sit for the ACBN exam from the agency
      3. that provided the specialized nutritional training.
      4. Grades from the agency that provided the specialized training
      5. in nutrition.
      6. Attestation form
      7. Check list of manuals and information sent to a candidate.
      8. Money received or reimbursed.
   4. All files will be placed in alphabetical order.
2. Self imposed Audits
   1. A routine audit of all new candidates will be performed twice:
      1. An audit will be performed once prior to the examination to confirm that all eligibility requirements have been met.
      2. An audit will be performed after completion of an examination, whether the candidate is successful or unsuccessful.
   2. A yearly audit of all candidates for that year will be performed.
3. Structure of Certificant’s File
   1. All certificant files shall be a continuation of their candidate’s files, with additional sections:
      1. Record of fees paid.
      2. Record of compliance in attending ACBN sponsored seminars one out of every two years, and what activity as required by the bylaws was performed on the “off year” along with the documentation to support that activity.
      3. Record of competency testing.
      4. Record of appointments.
      5. Record of any disciplinary action.
      6. Certificants identifying four (4) digit pin number.
4. Confidentiality and Security
   1. All files will be kept in a secure location.
   2. Access to files other than the Board must be in writing and with the certificant’s permission if not a Board member. Any file to be reviewed by a Board member must be signed out and signed back in, in a timely manner.
   3. No original documents shall leave a certificant’s file. A qualified request to review a file will require signing a confidentiality form. Once confidentiality form is returned and on file, copies of the requested documents will be sent certified, signed receipt.
   4. The candidate’s identifying four (4) digit pin number will identify the candidate or certificate exam grades or other sensitive information.
   5. All document files shall not be reviewed, reproduced, duplicated, or examined without first signing a statement of confidentiality.
   6. Reproduction, copying or duplication of any files must be performed in a closed, secure environment.
   7. All proctors assisting in the examination process shall sign a statement of confidentiality to assure the security and confidentiality of the examination and candidates.
   8. Information may be disclosed or made public through legal means such as a subpoena.
5. Retention of Files
   1. Physical records shall be retained for a minimum of 7 years. Thereafter, they shall be destroyed.
   2. Electronic records shall be retained indefinitely.

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XVI CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

1. No member(s) of the Examining Committee shall hold an administrative or policy making position with any college, university, institution, foundation, or agency where a postgraduate nutrition program is approved by the ACBN for any part of the certification program.
2. No member(s) of the Examining Committee shall have taught any part of the certification curriculum program for a minimum of two years after the course has ended.
3. Any member of the Board that may have a vested interest in a particular Board action, shall excuse themselves from involvement in the decision making process attributed that conflict of interest.
4. No member of the Board shall hold an administrative or policy making position with any other nutritional organization except upon the approval of the full Board.

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XVII DECERTIFICATION

1. Decertification is the revocation of the Board certification in nutrition of a certificant from the ACBN.
2. Decertification may occur if:
   1. A certificant fails to pay the annual certification fee as prescribed in the Bylaws or fails to complete the annual educational requirements.
   2. A certificant fails a competency examination.
   3. A complaint from any stakeholder was made, had followed through the grievance and complaint protocols, and the final Board decision to decertify the certificant was made.
   4. If a certificant knowingly and purposely exerts undue influence upon the ACBN or undermines the standards of accreditation by the accreditation agency.
3. Upon the recommendation of the Grievance Committee, decertification of a certificant must be presented to the full Board for a vote within thirty (30) days of the Grievance Committee’s recommendation. If the Board votes to decredenetial a certificant, a certified letter will be sent to the certificant. The certificant has thirty (30) days in which to respond to the Board decision and may request an appeal.
4. A certificant who has been decredentialized will be announced under “Board Actions” in the next ACBN Newsletter.
5. Right of Appeal. A certificant may appeal the Board’s decision to be De-credentialed.
   1. Certificant shall request an appeal in writing within thirty (30) days of the Board’s final decision to decertify the certificant.
   2. A review Board shall be formed in accordance with American Arbitration Association guidelines.
   3. The chair of the Review Board shall be a person designated by the Board. The Review Board shall remain neutral and act as a judicial tribunal to hear the appeal. The Review Board shall set a date for a hearing and conduct a hearing at which time the Board will make its presentation concerning the cause(s) of the decertification, and the certificant or representative shall make a presentation concerning the cause(s) of the decertification, and the certificant or representative shall make a presentation concerning the certificant’s decertification. Witnesses, testimony and other evidence shall be presented to the Review Board for its consideration. The Review Board shall make a Finding of Facts and Conclusions binding all parties within sixty (60) days.
   4. In order to initiate the proceedings, the certificant shall post with the Board a bond in the amount of fifteen thousand dollars U.S. funds ($15,000), unless showing of good cause, the Board determines a lesser amount appropriate.
   5. Any legal action, hearing or arbitration pursued by a certificant holder must be paid for by the certificant holder.

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XVIII RESTRAINT OF TRADE

All certificants will sign a restraint of trade form (refer to IX B, #4)

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XIX QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT

A variety of methodologies may be used to ensure quality assurance and quality control. These include, but are not limited to:

1. For test questions answered incorrectly, appropriate information will be published for informational purposes to guide a certificant towards a correct answer.
2. A list of reading material with references will be made available to all certificants wanting further understanding or explanations of certain ACBN policies, test questions, nutritional protocols, etc.
3. An on-line website will be maintained to provide all stakeholders accessibility to ACBN activities and informational services.
4. The ACBN will certify numerous nutritional seminars that qualify for ACBN approval. These seminars will be reviewed on an individual basis, and on the request of the seminar promoters. Seminars that are approved will ensure that more than 25% of the required 12 CCE credit hours required by the ACBN are taught by instructors who interject a product or company into their lecture.
5. The ACBN Board may, from time to time, develop surveys and focus groups to provide all stakeholders and the ACBN Board certain assessments, opinions, concerns and emerging technologies in the field of nutrition.

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XX CONTINUING CLINICAL COMPETENCY

In order to protect and serve the public and profession, and to measure and/or enhance continued clinical competence, all certificants of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition must satisfy yearly educational requirements. The rationale for yearly requirements is due to rapidly changing information on nutritional therapeutics.

1. Attend one (1) out of every two (2) years, an ACBN approved nutritional educational seminar(s) of minimally twelve (12) credit hours of education.
   1. The seminar must have been approved by the Board and was sponsored through a college, university, institution, foundation, or agency having status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency.
   2. All speakers must demonstrate to the Board sufficient expertise in the subject matter they are lecturing on. This may be accomplished by submitting a curriculum vitae, and course outline to the Board.
   3. No more than 25% of the seminar may be presented by speakers who work for any vendor.
   4. Speakers may be requested to submit twenty (20) questions, with answers, the source of the question, and page and paragraph of the information to the Board for possible inclusion to the clinical competency or recertification examination.
2. On the alternate or “off” year that the certificant is not attending an ACBN sponsored educational seminar(s), they must demonstrate to the Board, evidence of any of the following:
   1. Be actively engaged in nutrition education at a college, university, foundation, institution, or an agency having status with an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an agency having a reciprocal agreement with the recognized agency.
   2. Submit a paper on nutrition for publication with a minimum of ten (10) references.
   3. Submit at least two (2) case histories suitable for publication.
   4. Submit evidence of having attended a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours seminar on nutrition.
3. Appeals – Certificants who have not complied with attendance to an ACBN sponsored seminar or failed to have demonstrated evidence of items listed above under number four (4), due to illness or extenuating circumstances, may appeal to the Board for consideration of their status.
4. Any organization seeking ACBN approval for their seminar shall request an application that must be completed and returned no later than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to that event. (See Application for ACBN Approved Seminar at the end of this section.)

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XXI AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES

1. Notification of Need – Any candidate who is board eligible to sit for the ACBN examination, or any certificant required to take a recertification examination having special needs, must inform the secretary of the ACBN minimally three (3) months prior to taking the examination of those needs.
   1. The ACBN does not discriminate among applicants for certification on the basis of age, sex, race, religion, national origin, disability, or material status. To facilitate the Board in providing for special needs and accommodations, there is a section on the application where the applicant shall indicate when and what special accommodations are necessary.
   2. The Board complies with all requirements of applicable federal and state laws (e.g. Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) with respect to all certification and recertification activities and requires compliance.
2. Necessity to bring own interpreter if language other than English - All ACBN examinations, materials, and supporting documentation are in English. A candidate who is Board eligible to sit for the ACBN examination, or a Certificant who is required to take a recertifying examination and does not know the English language, must provide their own interpreter approved by the Board. The candidate is responsible for any and all fees necessary for an Interpreter.
3. Review of Examination Location and Environment - The ACBN shall, with advanced notification, make every effort to provide a location and environment that may accommodate any special needs.

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