Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) international accreditation pathway Applicant Guide

Transcription

1 Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) international accreditation pathway Applicant Guide An information document to guide applicants through the stages of the international accreditation pathway

2 Table of Contents List of Tables... 4 Section 1 - General information Purpose of this guide Eligibility... 6 Section 2 Completing Sections A to E of the AEP International Applicant Form Before you begin Application checklist AEP International Applicant Form Preparing your application Personal details Applicant Form, Section A Tertiary qualifications Applicant Form, Section B Other information Resume/CV, First Aid and CPR Applicant Form, Section C Privacy Statement and Professional Declarations Applicant Form, Section D i and ii Statutory declaration Applicant Form, Section D iii Payment details Applicant Form, Section E Section 3 Completing Section F of the International Applicant form - Stage 1: Desktop Review Overview Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F Stage 1: Desktop Review Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F word submission Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F2.0 - Exercise Science Standards Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F3.0 - Exercise Physiology Standards Professional Practice Professional practice evidence - Apparently healthy hours Professional practice evidence Cardiopulmonary/metabolic hours and musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular hours Professional practice evidence Other Clinical Health Delivery hours Recency of practice Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F hours of professional practice and recency of practice Recognition of your qualifications and or experience in your country of origin or residence P a g e

3 Section F5.0 Recognition of Professional Practice...21 Section 4 Finalising your application package for Stage 1: Desktop Review Finalising your application Assessment of Stage 1 Desktop Review Assessment outcome for Stage 1 Desktop Review Section 5 Stage 2: International AEP Theoretical Examination Applying to sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination Sitting the International AEP Theoretical Examination Invigilator requirements for the International AEP Theoretical Examination What is an invigilator? What are the responsibilities of an invigilator? Who can be an invigilator? Terms and Conditions of the role of invigilator Section 6 Stage 3: International AEP Practical Examination Applying to sit the International AEP Practical Examination Sitting for the International AEP Practical Examination Section 7 Stage 4: Australian Practice Requirements...31 APPENDICES...32 Appendix 1 Definitions...34 Appendix 2 - People authorised to witness a Statutory Declaration...36 Appendix 3 - Example of a completed Statutory Declaration...38 Appendix 4 Exercise Science Standards - Applicant Form Section F Appendix 5 Exercise Physiology Standards - Applicant Form Section F Section A General criteria Section B - Cardiopulmonary criteria Section C - Metabolic criteria Section D - Musculoskeletal criteria Section E - Neurological/neuromuscular criteria Section F - Other conditions Appendix 6 - More Information for Suitable Professional Practice...60 A6.1- Suitable supervisors for professional practice hours A6.2 Suitable sites for professional practice hours Appendix 7 Further information for Suitable Supporting Evidence of your Professional Practice...63 A7.1 Detailed Letter P a g e

4 A7.2 Detailed case studies A7.3 Professional practice logbook A7.4 Signed letter from manager or employer A7.5 Resources developed for the workplace P a g e

5 List of Tables Table 1 Suitable supporting evidence Table 2 Example of a completed Exercise Science Standards Table 3 Example of a completed Exercise Physiology Standards Table 4 Requirements for 500 hours of Professional Practice Table 5 Example of a completed Professional Practice 500 hours and recency of practice Table 6 Completed Example of Professional Recognition Table 7 AEP target clinical conditions P a g e

6 Section 1 - General information 5 P a g e

7 Section 1 - General information Please read this guide in full before completing the Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) International Applicant Form. The 2017 international accreditation pathway includes four stages: Stage 1: Desktop Review - a review of the information and documents submitted with the application form to demonstrate equivalency of the ESSA Exercise Science and Exercise Physiology Standards Stage 2: Theoretical Examination - completed online with invigilator supervision Stage 3: Practical Examination - offered at selected times and locations in Australia each year Stage 4: Australian Practice Requirements - includes successful completion of a complimentary online course on Australian compensable schemes, and submission of a statement of attainment for current Australian First Aid (course code HLTAID003) and current Australian CPR (course code HLTAID001). Note: i. Each stage must be successfully completed before applying for the following stage ii. Each stage will involve payment of the relevant fees 1.1 Purpose of this guide This guide has been prepared to help you (the applicant) to: i. Complete the applicant form ii. Understand the necessary evidence required for Stage 1 - Desktop Review including information on how to demonstrate equivalency of the ESSA standards and the professional practice requirements for accreditation iii. Understand the process for Stage 2 - Theoretical Examination including appointing your invigilator and preparation iv. Understand the process for Stage 3 - Practical Examination including preparation v. Understand the process for Stage 4 - Australian Practice Requirements including completion of an online course about Australian compensations schemes related to AEP practice vi. Comply with the timeframes in the accreditation process. 1.2 Eligibility Applicants eligible for the international exercise physiology accreditation pathway must: i. Have a minimum 4 years full time equivalent (FTE) tertiary qualification with a focus on clinical exercise physiology gained overseas AND ii. Can demonstrate equivalency of the ESSA Exercise Science and Exercise Physiology Standards AND iii. Have undertaken at least 500 hours of professional practice in the categories defined by ESSA Note: Where a potential applicant has completed some study in Australia and some overseas, the international component of the study must contribute substantially to the evidence for meeting the exercise science standards (Section F2.0 of the International Applicant Form) and the Exercise Physiology Standards (Section F3.0 of the International Applicant Form). 6 P a g e

8 Section 2 Completing Sections A to E of the AEP International Applicant Form 7 P a g e

9 Section 2 Completing Sections A to E of the AEP International Applicant Form 2.1 Before you begin Do: i. Read this application guide before completing the Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) International Applicant Form. ii. Read the Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) International Applicant Form in its entirety before completing. 2.2 Application checklist AEP International Applicant Form Do: i. Use the checklist on page 2 of the AEP International Applicant Form to ensure you have included all the relevant details and attachments in your application. 2.3 Preparing your application Do: i. Complete all Sections of the AEP International Applicant Form and attach all relevant documentation to avoid delays. ii. Keep a copy of your application in a safe place. iii. Secure your application with a fold back clip (if submitting evidence in hard copy). iv. Send the completed application (including USB where relevant) to: Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) Locked Bag 102 Albion DC QLD 4010 Australia v. Note: You will be advised by when your application is received by ESSA. Please allow 45 business days (from the date your completed application is received) for your application to be assessed. vi. Note: Applications are assessed in their order of arrival to the ESSA National Office. No applications will be fast-tracked or assessed ahead of other applications Don t: i. Submit original documents (e.g. academic transcript) as these will not be returned to you. ii. Bind applications or provide the application in a folder or plastic sleeve(s). iii. Fax applications to ESSA. Applications submitted by fax will not be accepted. 2.4 Personal details Applicant Form, Section A Do: i. Complete Section A Personal Details on page 3 of the AEP International Applicant Form. ii. Provide your business contact details if your current role is related to the field of exercise science or exercise physiology. iii. Submit proof of your name change e.g. copy of marriage certificate if you have changed your name since completing your degree. iv. Advise ESSA by phone: or info@essa.org.au if you change your address or after submitting your application. v. Note: Office opening hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time). See world time converter for your local time. 8 P a g e

10 2.5 Tertiary qualifications Applicant Form, Section B Do: i. List all of your relevant tertiary studies in the AEP International Applicant Form, Section B - Tertiary Qualifications. ii. Include: a. The full name of your qualification(s) b. The full title of the conferring institution(s) c. Country where the tertiary provider is located d. Year in which the studies were completed. iii. Note: the completion date is the year that you finished your studies, not the year your degree was conferred (graduation ceremony) Do: i. Attach a certified copy *1 NOT an original of the following: a. Your official testamur b. Your official academic transcript. ii. Note: A certified copy is one that has been signed by a person authorised to authenticate that the copy is a true version of the original transcript, see appendix 2 for suitable persons. iii. Attach an officially translated transcript i.e. translated by a recognised translation service if your original transcript is not in English. iv. Note: The academic transcript must state that the qualification has been awarded, conferred or equivalent. Should your transcript not state that the degree has been awarded or conferred to you, do: a. Attach a certified copy of your testamur, or b. A certified copy (in English) of an official letter of completion from your higher education provider that states you have completed the degree and are eligible for graduation. Don t submit an original copy of your academic transcript as this will not be returned to you. Refer to Appendix 2 for a full list of people who are able to certify documents. Refer to a NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translatory and Interpreters Ltd) for an accredited translator, see Attach your parchment and academic transcript and official translation(s) (if they are not in English) 9 P a g e

11 2.6 Other information Resume/CV, First Aid and CPR Applicant Form, Section C Do: i. Attach a copy of your current resume or curriculum vitae. ii. Note: If you successfully reach stage 4 of the international accreditation pathway you will be required to submit current, Australian recognised First-Aid and Australian CPR qualifications to complete your accreditation with ESSA and to practise in Australia. The suitable qualification is Australian First-Aid qualification (including CPR) (course code HLTAID003) and current Australian CPR (course code HLTAID001). iii. Note: To maintain ongoing accreditation as an AEP, you will be required to renew your CPR qualification annually and your First Aid qualification every 3 years. 2.7 Privacy Statement and Professional Declarations Applicant Form, Section D i and ii Do: i. Read and sign the privacy declaration in AEP International Applicant Form, Section D i Privacy Statement ii. Read the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice available from the ESSA website iii. Read and sign all professional declarations in the AEP International Applicant Form, Section D ii, Professional Declarations. 2.8 Statutory declaration Applicant Form, Section D iii Do: i. Complete the details in the AEP International Applicant Form Section D iii - Statutory Declaration. ii. iii. Sign the Statutory Declaration before an authorised witness and have them counter-sign the form. Note: it is a criminal offence in Australia to deliberately provide false or misleading information under a Statutory Declaration. Refer to Appendix 2 for a full list of people who are able to witness a Statutory Declaration and certify documents. Refer to Appendix 3 for an example of a completed Statutory Declaration. 10 P a g e

12 2.9 Payment details Applicant Form, Section E Do: i. Complete the AEP International Applicant Form, Section E Payment details. ii. Include payment in Australian dollars (AUD) for processing of your application Stage 1: Desktop Review. iii. Note: This payment is non-refundable. iv. Note: Further fees apply for stages 2-4 of the international accreditation pathway. v. Note: the full breakdown of fees as listed in the AEP International Applicant Form, Section E Payment Details. vi. Note: Payments can be made by: Credit card a. Credit card payments will incur an additional merchant fee of 1.5% b. Credit card details must be current for at least 60 days from the date of application submission Cheques or money orders should be made payable to Exercise & Sports Science Australia. 11 P a g e

13 Section 3 Completing Section F of the International Applicant form Stage 1: Desktop Review 12 P a g e

14 Section 3 Completing Section F of the International Applicant form - Stage 1: Desktop Review 3.1 Overview The current accreditation pathway for domestic students (studying in Australia) involves the successful completion of at least 4 years full time equivalent tertiary study of an ESSA approved course in clinical exercise physiology. The approved course includes significant Standards in exercise science and clinical exercise physiology AND at least 500 hours of practical experience. Upon completion of an ESSA approved course graduates are eligible for both exercise science accreditation and exercise physiology accreditation with ESSA. International (overseas) tertiary qualifications in applied sport science or clinical exercise physiology are structured differently from ESSA approved courses in Australia. It is NOT expected that you have studied all of the same subjects as domestic applicants, but you are required to demonstrate that you have equivalent knowledge, skills and experience to that required for ESSA exercise science membership and exercise physiology accreditation. You are able to demonstrate equivalency using a broad range of supporting evidence. For example, tertiary study AND continuing education AND work experience. The suitable types of supporting evidence that are listed in Table 1 Suitable Supporting Evidence (of this guide). The supporting evidence you submit must include the following; i. 500 word submission, see Section 3.3 ii. Demonstrated equivalency of the exercise science standards iii. Demonstrated equivalency of the Exercise Physiology Standards iv. Evidence of professional practice hours AND recency of practice v. Evidence of recognition - of your qualifications and/or experience in your country of origin or residence Note: If you already have ESSA exercise science membership you do not need to complete Section F2.0 Exercise Science Standards 3.2 Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F Stage 1: Desktop Review To demonstrate equivalency of the ESSA requirements for becoming an AEP you are required to complete AEP International Applicant Form, Section F (F1.0 F6.0) AND submit suitable supporting evidence Do: i. Note: Table 1 Suitable Supporting Evidence Table (of this guide) lists the types of supporting evidence you can submit to demonstrate your equivalency. ii. Note: You are not limited to the types of evidence listed; you may supply other relevant information as well.note: Most of your supporting evidence for AEP International Applicant Form, Section F2.0 - Exercise Science Standards should be from the Table 1 primary category of evidence. iii. Note: Most of your supporting evidence for AEP International Applicant Form, Section F3.0 - Exercise Physiology Standards should be from the Table 1 primary and secondary categories of evidence. iv. Note: Most of your supporting evidence for AEP International Applicant Form, Section F4.0 - Professional Practice should be from the Table 1 secondary and tertiary categories of evidence. v. Print your suitable supporting evidence documents and attach them to the AEP International Applicant Form OR save them to a USB and post it with the application form. vi. Number and list each supporting evidence in the AEP International Applicant Form, Section F6.0 - Supporting Evidence Reference List. Attach all your supporting evidence documents to the AEP International Applicant Form 13 P a g e

15 Table 1 Suitable supporting evidence Category of evidence Primary Type of suitable supporting evidence Detailed subject/course descriptions, handbook, lecture slides, copies of assignments Statement of attainment, certificate of completion and description of the course content Secondary (Verified by an appropriately qualified practitioner or substantiated by an appropriately qualified colleague) (see Appendix 7 for detailed information of supporting evidence requirements) Tertiary Detailed letter from your appropriately qualified supervisor /colleague/manager/employer describing work undertaken with clients and the duration of employment Detailed client case studies De-identified client case notes, client assessment results and or client exercise programs Detailed logbooks - suitable for applicants who are currently working and can provide evidence from their current work OR recent graduates who completed practicum logbooks as part of their degree Position description - describing roles and responsibilities Performance reviews Higher education student practicum unit outline - detailing duration of practicum Evidence of supervision of students on work experience/tertiary practicum Research (dependent on supervision status) Client testimonials Referral letters from GPs, etc. Pay slips/tax returns, etc. Awards for service to the industry Resources developed for the workplace (related to the field of exercise science or exercise physiology) 3.3 Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F word submission Do: i. Visit the ESSA website to download the AEP Scope of Practice. ii. Describe in a Word document, your understanding of the AEP Scope of Practice and how your knowledge, skills and experience will contribute to your ability to practice as an AEP in Australia. (Maximum 500 words). iii. Attach your word submission to your AEP International Applicant Form or your (USB). Attach your 500 word submission to the AEP International Applicant Form 14 P a g e

16 3.4 Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F2.0 - Exercise Science Standards Do: i. Read Appendix 4 - Exercise Science Standards, of this application guide. ii. Identify suitable evidence that will enable you to demonstrate how you meet each of the Exercise Science Standards study areas. iii. Note: Table 1 Suitable supporting evidence, (in this guide) lists the types of evidence you may submit. iv. Note: It is expected that most of your supporting evidence will be from the primary category of evidence. v. Refer to Table 2 - Example of a completed Exercise Science Standards table vi. Complete the AEP International Applicant Form, Section Exercise Science Standards table. vii. Attach your supporting evidence to the AEP International Applicant Form (or your USB) Attach all relevant supporting evidence documents to the AEP International Applicant Form Table 2 Example of a completed Exercise Science Standards Section F2.0 Exercise Science Standards (refer to appendix 4 in the International Applicant Guide) How to demonstrate the Exercise Science (ES) Standards: 1. Click the link ES Standards (Word Document). 2. Download, save and read the Tips on completing Section E, on page 2 of the Word document. 3. Complete in full by listing and/or describing evidence. Note: You can list your evidence IF your evidence clearly shows how the element of the study area has been satisfied AND/OR you can describe in your own words similar to answering a short answer question in an exam OR selection criteria. 4. Attach all supporting evidence documents as hard copies with your application OR save all evidence to a USB and send with your application. Listing evidence Study area example - Human Anatomy 1. Locate components of the body systems, with an emphasis on musculoskeletal structures, using a variety of tools such as cadaveric specimens, anatomical models, radiographic images, and diagrams and photographs (in print or electronic media). List your supporting evidence here: See unit outline EXSS101 Human Anatomy, learning outcomes 2 and 3 and lecture slides Please note: If ESSA cannot clearly see evidence of the standard when reviewing your referenced evidence, you will be asked for further information. Describing evidence Study area example 1- Health, Exercise and Sport Assessment 6. Identify the need for guidance or further information from an appropriate health professional, and recognise when medical supervision is required before or during an assessment and when to cease a test. List your supporting evidence here: Unit SPX303 in second year (identifying where knowledge was learnt) included lectures on referrals and the scope of an exercise scientist. We were also required to do a practical assessment (describing HOW knowledge was applied) where we undertook risk stratification for a mock client using the ESSA screening tool, and were required to make a decision on whether the client required medical clearance. We were required to identify any contraindications prior to testing and monitor clients throughout testing. Changes in clinical status such as a sudden drop in blood pressure or a bout of dizziness are examples of when to cease a test and seek further advice/medical clearance (identifying examples). 15 P a g e

17 3.5 Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F3.0 - Exercise Physiology Standards Do: i. Read Appendix 5 Exercise Physiology Standards, of this application guide. ii. Identify suitable evidence that will enable you to demonstrate how you meet all the Exercise Physiology Standards areas. iii. Note: Table 1 - Suitable supporting evidence, (of this guide) lists the types of evidence you may submit. iv. Note: It is expected that most of your supporting evidence come from the Table 1 primary and secondary categories of evidence. v. Refer to Table 3 Example of a completed Exercise Physiology Standards table vi. Complete the AEP International Applicant Form, Section F3.0 - Exercise Physiology Standards table. vii. Attach your supporting evidence to the AEP International Applicant Form (or your USB) Attach all relevant supporting evidence documents to the AEP International Applicant Form Table 3 Example of a completed Exercise Physiology Standards Section F3.0 Exercise Physiology Standards (refer to appendix 5 in the International Applicant Guide) How to demonstrate the Exercise Physiology Standards: 1. Complete the table below and list the supporting evidence documents you are submitting. Refer to Table 1 of the International Applicant Guide for suitable supporting evidence. 2. To further understand the knowledge and skill criteria required for the Exercise Physiology Standards please read Appendix 5 of the International Applicant Guide. Knowledge and skill area List the forms of evidence you are providing to demonstrate how you have met the AEP Standards Office use only 1. Knowledge of the ESSA AEP target pathologies including cardiopulmonary, metabolic, musculoskeletal, neurological/neuromuscular conditions and conditions related to mental health and cancer 2. Knowledge and application of surgical, medical and allied health management and the effect on clinical status and exercise capacity 3. Knowledge and application of evidence based research in the design of clinical exercise interventions 4. Knowledge and application of safety considerations in practice including risk factor stratification, monitoring, precautions and contraindications, effects of medications on exercise response, signs and symptoms for all AEP target pathologies 5. Knowledge and application of relevant assessments, and safety considerations in preparation for prescribing clinical exercise for clients with a cardiopulmonary condition Higher education subject descriptor for EXSS210 Pathophysiology of Chronic conditions- see attached document 13. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, 24. See employer letter for Healthwise Clinic describing my work with other health professionals see attached document 25. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, 24. Higher education assignment for subject EXSS210 Exercise for cancer sufferers see attached document 27. My workplace Healthwise Clinic also hosted professional development opportunities where health professionals presented research articles to staff see copy of two articles in attached documents 28 and 29. Higher education subject descriptor for EXSS210 Pathophysiology of Chronic conditions see attached document 9. Higher education subject descriptor for CEP210 Clinical exercise assessment. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, 24. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached document 21. See short course delivered by Prince Charles Hospital in Cardiac Rehabilitation see document P a g e

18 6. Knowledge and application of relevant assessments and safety considerations in preparation for prescribing clinical exercise for clients with a metabolic condition 7. Knowledge and application of relevant assessments and safety considerations in preparation for prescribing clinical exercise for clients with a musculoskeletal condition See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached document 24. See employer letter from Healthwise Clinic describing my work with clients with obesity see attached document 25. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached document 24 Higher education subject descriptor CEP310 Rehabilitation see attached document 32. See attached conference details for ASCM Conference where I attended sessions on musculoskeletal rehab see attached certificate and session schedule document Knowledge and application of relevant assessments and safety considerations in preparation for prescribing clinical exercise for clients with a neurological/neuromuscular condition 9. Knowledge and application of the principles of functional capacity evaluations and occupational rehabilitation including ergonomic assessment within the home and work to recommend exercise interventions 10. Knowledge and application of interpersonal communication and behaviour change including those from culturally diverse backgrounds See employer letter for Healthwise Clinic describing my work with clients with neuro conditions such as Parkinson s disease and Stroke and see attached document 25. My workplace Healthwise Clinic also hosted professional development opportunities where health professionals presented research articles to staff see copy of two articles in attached documents 28 and 29. See my higher education work experience logbook - see attached document 38 and report - see attached 39. University subject descriptor for EXSS125 Exercise Behaviour - see attached document 3. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, 24 and my 500 word submission on the AEP Scope of Practice see attached document P a g e

19 3.6 Professional Practice 3.6 Do: i. Note: Professional practice includes: student practicum placement and professional work practice, voluntary or paid. ii. Note: To gain AEP accreditation with ESSA, all applicants (international and domestic) must submit evidence to show that they have undertaken a minimum of 500 hours of exercise prescription professional practice that meets requirements in Table 4 - Requirements for 500 hours of Professional Practice. iii. Note: You must submit suitable evidence to show how you meet the minimum hours in each of the categories i.e. Apparently Healthy, see Section 3.6.1; Cardiopulmonary/Metabolic, see Section 3.6.2; and Musculoskeletal/Neurological/Neuromuscular, see Section 3.6.2; AND an overall minimum of 500 hours of suitable professional practice. iv. Note: Your Professional Practice must be verified by a suitable supervisor, see Appendix 6 More Information for Suitable Professional Practice. v. Note: You must have undertaken your Professional Practice in suitable locations, see Appendix 6 More Information for Suitable Professional Practice. vi. Note: You need to submit evidence of to show recent AEP practice. I.e. within the past 3 years, see Section Recency of Practice. vii. Refer: to Section of this guide for instructions to complete the AEP International Applicant form, Section F4.0 Professional Practice Table 4 Requirements for 500 hours of Professional Practice Professional Minimum Number Suitable Conditions Practice Category of Hours Required Apparently Healthy (see Section 3.6.1) Cardiopulmonary/ Metabolic (see Section 3.6.2) Musculoskeletal/ Neurological/ Neuromuscular (see Section 3.6.2) Other (see Section 3.6.3) Total 140 hours 140 hours 140 hours 80 hours 500 hours Apparently Healthy Treatment Clients have no known conditions AND/OR Clients are not participating in an exercise intervention to treat a specific health condition The services provided focused on prevention of chronic conditions The primary purpose of the session was to deliver fitness coaching or strength and conditioning coaching i.e. where the primary purpose of the session was to improve performance through increased fitness, strength or conditioning Cardiopulmonary Conditions Hypertension (HT), coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral vascular disease (PVD), myocardial infarction (AMI), chronic heart failure (CHF), asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis (CF) Metabolic Conditions Obesity, dyslipidemias, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), diabetes mellitus (DM) Musculoskeletal Conditions Arthritides (esp. OA and RA), osteoporosis (OP), sub-acute and chronic specific and non-specific, musculoskeletal pain / injuries Neurological/Neuromuscular Conditions Stroke (CVA), spinal cord injury (SCI), acquired brain injury (ABI), Parkinson s disease, Multiple sclerosis (MS) Other Conditions cancers, mental health (depression), renal conditions or other pathologies Other Services Diagnostic investigations or procedures (e.g. cardiac, pulmonary or other clinical investigations or procedures, ECG stress testing) Health/wellness checks (e.g. point of care testing) Job capacity assessment, functional capacity assessments, pre-employment checks Laboratory/research testing/screening Rehabilitation Case management Health promotion, or providing health education or workplace health programs 18 P a g e

20 3.6.1 Professional practice evidence - Apparently healthy hours Do: i. Note: The purpose of apparently healthy practice hours is for you to show assimilation of formal learning with delivery of exercise prescription to apparently healthy individuals for the purpose of improving health, fitness, performance or preventing development of chronic conditions. ii. Include supporting evidence to show you have deliver 140 hours of apparently healthy exercise prescription where: a. Clients have no known conditions AND/OR b. Clients are not participating in an exercise intervention to treat a specific health condition c. The services provided focused on prevention of chronic conditions d. The primary purpose of the session was to deliver fitness coaching or strength and conditioning coaching i.e. where the primary purpose of the session was to improve performance through increased fitness, strength or conditioning Don t: i. Include practice hours for sports coaching or skills based coaching i.e. where the primary purpose of the session was to improve performance through skill development. These hours cannot be accepted Professional practice evidence Cardiopulmonary/metabolic hours and musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular hours Do: i. Note: You are required to submit evidence to show you have delivered 140 hours of exercise prescription for clients with cardiopulmonary/metabolic and 140 hours of exercise prescription for clients with musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular conditions. ii. Note: Your evidence should show you have treated a representative sample of clients from each category i.e. cardiopulmonary/metabolic and musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular but you are NOT required to show Professional Practice for every condition listed in Table 4 - Requirements for 500 hours of Professional Practice. iii. Note: clients with multiple co-morbidities should be categorised according to the main purpose of the exercise prescription e.g. a client has T2DM but the purpose for seeing an exercise physiologist is to gain strength and return to activities of daily living post a hip replacement. This client fits in the musculoskeletal category Professional practice evidence Other Clinical Health Delivery hours Do: i. Note: The Other Clinical Health Delivery category provides you with some flexibility in showing your 500 hours of professional practice. ii. Note: It is common for exercise physiologists to provide services that do not include the prescription of exercise but are within the Scope of Practice for an Accredited Exercise Physiologist. For example you may have worked as a rehabilitation case manager or cardiac technician. These services can make up to 80 of the 500 hours required for professional practice. iii. Submit evidence for Other Clinical Health Delivery if you have experience suitable to this category, see Table 4 - Requirements for 500 hours of Professional Practice Don t include: i. Apparently healthy hours ii. Activities outside the AEP scope of practice e.g. Passive therapies including massage, manipulations, McKenzie therapy, dry-needling, ultrasound therapy etc. 19 P a g e

21 3.6.4 Recency of practice Do: i. Provide supporting evidence for your practice within the past there years, that is since ii. Note: Referable supporting evidence would be a letter from an employer or supervisor clearly stating that you had undertaken practice since Completing AEP International Applicant Form, Section F hours of professional practice and recency of practice Do: i. Identify suitable evidence to show how you have completed 500 hours of professional practice consistent with the requirements in Table 4 - Requirements for 500 hours of Professional Practice. ii. Note: Table 1 - Suitable supporting evidence, in this guide, lists the types of evidence you can provide. iii. Note: It is expected that most of your supporting evidence will be from the Table 1 secondary and tertiary categories of evidence. iv. Note: Your supporting evidence must be verified by an appropriately qualified professional, refer to Appendix 6. v. Note: For more detail about what is required in your supporting evidence see Appendix 7. vi. Refer to Table 5 Example of a completed Professional Practice and Exercise Physiology Standards table. vii. Identify suitable evidence that will enable you to show you have completed recent AEP practice (within the past 3 years, (since 2012)). viii. Complete the table in Section F4.0 of the Applicant Form. ix. Attach your supporting evidence to the AEP International Applicant Form (or your USB) Attach all relevant supporting evidence documents to the AEP International Applicant Form Table 5 Example of a completed Professional Practice 500 hours and recency of practice Section F4.0 - Professional Practice 500 hours and Recency of Practice Professional Practice Category Number of Hours submitted List the forms of evidence you are providing to demonstrate your Standards Office use only F4.1 Apparently healthy hours experience of prescribing exercise for the purpose of improving an individual s health, wellbeing, performance or for the prevention of disease/injury. F4.2 Cardiopulmonary/metabolic hours of experience prescribing exercise for the purpose of managing or treating an individual s cardiopulmonary/metabolic condition. F4.3 Musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular hours of experience prescribing exercise for the purpose of managing or treating an individual s musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular condition 200 hrs My higher education work experience logbook - see attached document 38 and report - see attached document 39. Employer letter for Healthwise Clinic see attached document yrs FTE My higher education work experience logbook - see attached document 38 and report - see attached document 39. Professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, yrs FTE Employer letter for Healthwise Clinic describing my work with clients with neuro conditions such as Parkinson s disease and Stroke see attached document 25. Professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, P a g e

22 F hours can include; a. Additional exercise prescription for individuals with a cardiopulmonary/metabolic conditions OR musculoskeletal/neurological/neuromuscular conditions b. Exercise prescription for conditions outside of the above categories such as mental health conditions, cancer, renal failure c. Other activities related to the scope of an AEP such as pre-employment health checks, delivering or developing relevant clinical exercise education or resources, research in area of clinical exercise F4.5 Recency of Practice what documents verify that you have practiced within the past three years 2 yrs FTE Employer letter for Healthwise Clinic describing my work with clients with neuro conditions such as Parkinson s disease and Stroke see attached document 25. See professional practice supporting documents for client case notes - see attached documents, 21, 23, 24. See employer letter for Healthwise Clinic for experience in 2012 and 2013 see attached document Recognition of your qualifications and or experience in your country of origin or residence Do: i. Provide supporting evidence to demonstrate recognition of your qualifications and or experience from your country of origin or residence. ii. Note: Supporting evidence may include membership or accreditation at a recognisable association e.g. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology, Sport and Exercise Science New Zealand (SESNZ) or The British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES). iii. Note: Supporting evidence may also include employment at a hospital, sports institute, clinic etc. iv. Refer to Table 6 Completed Example of Professional Recognition Table. v. Complete the AEP International Applicant Form, Section F5.0 Professional Recognition. vi. Attach your supporting evidence to the AEP International Applicant Form (or your USB) Attach all relevant supporting evidence documents to the AEP International Applicant Form Table 6 Completed Example of Professional Recognition Section F5.0 Recognition of Professional Practice Describe your recognition here and supply relevant supporting evidence to demonstrate your recognition. 1. I was recognised as an exercise physiologist at my position at Healthwise Clinic. Healthwise is a multidisciplinary clinic that receives referrals from GP s. Please refer to supporting evidence #25 letter from employer 2. I have been an Exercise Physiologist member of ACSM since Please refer to my ACSM certificate. Please refer to supporting evidence #35 Copy of ACSM Member Certificate. 21 P a g e

23 Section 4 Finalising your application package for Stage 1: Desktop Review 22 P a g e

24 Section 4 Finalising your application package for Stage 1: Desktop Review 4.1 Finalising your application Do: i. Check that you have completed all Sections of the application form and attached all relevant documentation. ii. Photocopy your application and keep the photocopy in a safe place. iii. Secure the original of your application with a fold back clip. iv. Send the original of your application package to: Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) Locked Bag 4102, Ascot QLD Assessment of Stage 1 Desktop Review Do: i. Note: On receipt of your application, ESSA will: a. Process your application fee b. Send you a confirmation on receipt of your application ii. iii. iv. Allow 45 business days from when ESSA receives your application for it to be assessed. Note: During the assessment process, your assessor may contact you via to request further information/evidence to assist with assessing your application. Further information will require submission by the due date indicated by the assessor. Note: Should ESSA not receive this further information by the due date, your application will be finalised as declined i.e. you will not receive ESSA AEP accreditation at this time. You will then be required to wait a minimum of six months before reapplying for ESSA AEP accreditation. 4.3 Assessment outcome for Stage 1 Desktop Review Do: i. Note: When your application for has been assessed, ESSA will advise you via with the outcome of the assessment i.e.: a. Your stage one. Desktop Review application has been approved and you are eligible to apply for the International AEP Theoretical Examination. b. Your stage one. Desktop Review application has not been approved and you are ineligible to apply for the International AEP Theoretical Examination. You will be advised on your requirements to become an AEP. 23 P a g e

25 Section 5 Stage 2: International AEP Theoretical Examination 24 P a g e

26 Section 5 Stage 2: International AEP Theoretical Examination 5.1 Applying to sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination Applicants who have successfully passed the Stage1: Desktop Review are eligible to sit the AEP Theoretical Examination Do: i. Note: The International AEP Theoretical Examination is delivered online, but must be overseen by an invigilator. ii. Arrange for a suitable invigilator to oversee your online theory examination, once you have been notified your assessment has been successful. iii. iv. Ensure your invigilator meets the ESSA requirements for an invigilator as described in Section 5.3 of this guide. Ensure your invigilator will be available when you intend sitting the examination. You are required to include this date and time on your International AEP Theoretical Examination - Invigilator Application Form, see Appendix 9 of this guide. v. Note: Information about the International AEP Theoretical Examination can be found on the ESSA website. vi. Note: The cost to sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination must be paid upon registration. See the AEP Theory Examination Registration Form, in Appendix 8 of this guide or on the ESSA website. vii. Complete and send to ESSA: a. Your International AEP Theoretical Examination Registration Form b. Your International AEP Theoretical Examination - Invigilator Application Form. viii. Allow up to 5 business days for processing of your forms, from when they are received at ESSA. ix. Note: ESSA will advise you by once your forms are processed. x. Allow up to 15 business days between ESSA s receipt of your Registration Form and Invigilator Application Form and the date you intend sitting the International AEP Theoretical Examination. xi. Note: The International AEP Theoretical Examination must be completed within three (3) months of ESSA approving your application. xii. Note: If the examination is not completed within three months, an unsuccessful result is recorded. This is considered one attempt. xiii. Note: A refund will be provided for cancellations received in writing at ESSA more than 15 business days before the applicant nominated examination date. No refunds will be provided for cancellations received 15 business days or less prior to the applicant s nominated examination date. xiv. Note: You and your invigilator will be provided logistical information related to sitting the International AEP Theoretical Examination. xv. Note: You will receive log-in details to allow you to access a practice test prior to your examination day. xvi. Note: The questions in the International AEP Theoretical Examination are randomly selected from a database of possible questions and will be different at each sitting. xvii. Note: A score of 70% is required to be assessed as competent on the International AEP Theoretical Examination. xviii. Note: Examination results will take up to 10 working days to be finalised and communicated to you. xix. Note: Applicants who are assessed as competent on the International AEP Theoretical Examination are eligible to sit the International AEP Practical Examination, see Section 6 of this guide. xx. Note: Applicants who are assessed as not-competent on their first sitting of the International AEP Theoretical Examination will be eligible to re-sit the examination, after 30 business days and, on payment of the International AEP Theoretical Examination re-sit fee to ESSA. xxi. Note: If you are using a different invigilator for your second attempt, you must submit a new Invigilator Application Form a minimum of 15 business days prior to the second sitting date. xxii. Note: Applicants who are assessed as not-competent on their second sitting of the International AEP Theoretical Examination will be: a. Advised they are and no longer eligible to apply for accreditation as an exercise physiologist under the international pathway b. Offered ESSA Full membership or accreditation as an Exercise Scientist (AES) c. Advised to undertake further appropriate study 25 P a g e

27 5.2 Sitting the International AEP Theoretical Examination Do: i. Prepare to sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination. You will be provided with information from ESSA at the time of eligibility to apply for the AEP Theoretical Examination. ii. Arrange a suitable location to sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination. Suitable locations include a quiet room with internet connectivity such as a room at a university, office/workplace, or public library. A private residence is NOT a suitable location. iii. Arrange for your invigilator to be present when you sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination. iv. Bring photo identification with you on the day. v. Note: Technical support to sit the International AEP Theoretical Examination will only be available between the hours of 9am and 4pm Australian Eastern Standard Time i.e. Brisbane local time. vi. If you feel you will need technical support, please schedule appropriately. 5.3 Invigilator requirements for the International AEP Theoretical Examination What is an invigilator? An invigilator is a person who is responsible for supervising an examination and ensuring it is conducted in accordance with ESSA s Terms and Conditions. Invigilators are volunteers and are not to be paid for their services What are the responsibilities of an invigilator? It is an invigilator s duty to prevent any applicant from gaining an unfair advantage over other applicants. In order to guarantee this, invigilators MUST devote their whole attention to the continuous supervision of an applicant and to perform their duty in a fair, calm and responsible manner The invigilator must be: i. Approved by ESSA ii. Able to fully meet the Terms and Conditions of the role of the invigilator iii. Confident to enforce the Terms and Conditions of an examination iv. A professional person v. Computer literate vi. Able to deal effectively and efficiently with problems that may arise during the examination vii. Able to be within the examination room the whole time and may not be called away during an examination viii. Only supervising one applicant at a time Who can be an invigilator? The invigilator can be: i. A police officer at a local police station ii. A person who holds public office (for example, Town Clerk, Clerk of Petty Sessions) iii. A teacher of a TAFE College or School iv. A university academic v. A Minister of Religion vi. A Justice of the Peace vii. An ESSA staff member viii. An accredited exercise physiologist (AEP) The invigilators cannot be: i. A family member ii. A friend iii. Direct report supervisor (i.e. applicant cannot be their boss) iv. Under the age of 25 years v. Work colleague. 26 P a g e