After careful review of input from a large number of embryology practitioners, the ACE Education Committee, and the ACE Advisory, and Administrative Boards, have responded to the request for grandfathering at the level of Embryologist (EMB Level IV) for Embryology professionals who do NOT hold Doctoral degree.
Since the ACE focuses on education and quality Standards of Practice, the organization has developed a method for qualified individuals to grandfather within our current grandfathering period, ending February 28, 2011 by demonstrating that their contribution to the development of the profession and their commitment to the continued education merits such certification.
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Embryology Practitioner without Doctoral degree may be grandfathered at the Embryologist Level IV through February 28, 2011 by meeting the following criteria:
- Hold a minimum of a B.S. or its equivalency in biological or clinical laboratory science.
AND
- Currently practicing embryology and having independently performed ≥ 100 hands-on ART cases during the past 3 years.
AND
- Successfully pass a proficiency examination in at least one of the following areas: ICSI, embryo biopsy, or cryopreservation. This requirement may be waived provided that the applicant has performed a minimum number of relevant procedures in a laboratory, which during at least one of the last 3 years, was rated in the top 25% based on patients under 35 years of age: (2006 ≥ 48%; 2007 ≥ 50%; 2008 ≥ 51% OR In a laboratory that is within the top 25% for implantation rates resulting from single embryo transfers (according to IVF RREORTSTM calculations extrapolated from the SART data).
AND
- Successfully complete a minimum of 8 CE units or 80 hours (including the 4 units required for all ACE certified professionals) no later than December 31, 2011 with a passing score required for Ph.D. and M.D. embryologists for all modules.
AND
- Demonstrate a strong record of scholarship and professional contributions to the field.
A detailed curriculum vita, appropriate documentation (e.g. journal reprints or honors), and 3 professional references are requested for review by the ACE Education Committee.
Applications will be reviewed on an individual basis with certification as an Embryologist based on achievements.
Please direct all your questions about this issue to:
Doris J. Baker, Ph.D., EMB (ACE), HCLD(ABB), MT(ASCP)
Chair, Education Committee
American College of Embryology
Telephone: 1 (800) 644 3218 ext 12
E-mail: doris.baker@embcol.org
Professor, Center of Excellence in Reproductive Sciences
Director of Graduate Studies, Reproductive Sciences University of Kentucky
126E CTW Building
900 South Limestone
Lexington, KY 40536-0200
Telephone: (859) 218-0854
Fax: (859) 323-8957
E-mail: dbaker@uky.edu