2. International Credentialling

The International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) promotes public protection by setting standards and developing examinations for the credentialing and licensing of prevention, substance use disorder treatment, and recovery professionals. Quality and integrity are the foundation of IC&RC’s work. IC&RC’s credentials are created using the latest research on evidencebased practices. They are updated every five years and subjected to an extensive process of peer review. IC&RC examinations are based on formal job analyses, written by subject matter experts, and supported by current research and references. In addition, IC&RC Member Boards are required to develop and maintain credential specific codes of ethics. IC&RC endorses the Prevention Code of Ethics, which is specific to the prevention profession. Principles of the Prevention Code of Ethics include 1) Non-discrimination, 2) Competency, 3) Integrity, 4) Nature of Services, 5) Competency, and 6) Ethical Obligations for Community and Society. The updated version addresses current issues affecting prevention services such as use of social media, boundaries and advocacy.

A globally certified workforce would promote the recognition of prevention as a distinct and important profession in public health, unify an understanding and endorsement of the knowledge and skill sets necessary for effective practice, and facilitate communication globally among prevention professionals about best practice and current research in prevention.