What Is the AE-C (Asthma Educator Specialist) Credential?
The Asthma Educator Specialist (AE-C) credential is a professional certification that demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in asthma education. It is designed for healthcare professionals who provide asthma education, counseling, and care coordination.
Important to note:
The AE-C credential is not required to be an asthma educator and is not required to become a member of Association of Asthma Educators (AAE). Many asthma educators and AAE members practice successfully without holding this credential.
Who Administers the AE-C Exam?
The AE-C examination is administered by the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC).
NBRC awards the AE-C credential based on established competency standards and partners with PSI Services, Inc. to provide secure testing at assessment centers throughout the United States.
What is an AE-C
Who Is Eligible to Sit for the AE-C Exam?
To qualify for the AE-C examination, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:
Option 1: Hold a Current Professional License or Credential (U.S.)
Eligible licensed or credentialed professionals include:
- Physician (MD, DO)
- Physician Assistant (PA-C)
- Nurse (RN, LPN, NP)
- Respiratory Therapist (RRT, CRT)
- Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT, CPFT)
- Pharmacist (RPh)
- Social Worker (CSW)
- Health Educator (CHES)
- Physical Therapist (PT)
- Occupational Therapist (OT)
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT, AEMT)
- Paramedic
- Speech-Language Pathologist (CCC-SLP)
Option 2: Professional Experience Pathway
- A minimum of 1,000 hours of direct patient asthma education, counseling, or care coordination prior to applying for the examination.
What is an AE-C
The Role of AAE
AAE does not administer or oversee the AE-C examination.
AAE supports asthma educators at all stages of practice, whether or not they pursue professional certification, through education, resources, advocacy, and community.