Educators

• Possesses comprehensive, current knowledge of asthma pathophysiology and management.
• Is knowledgeable about objective and subjective evaluations used to diagnose asthma and assess its control.
• Instructs individuals with asthma on the optimal use of medications and delivery devices.
• Conducts thorough assessments of individuals and families.
• Works with an individual with asthma, his/her family, and other healthcare professionals to develop, implement, monitor, and revise an asthma action plan.
• Monitors asthma education program outcomes and recommends modifications to improve quality and effectiveness.
• Serves as a resource to the community by providing information about asthma as well as healthcare and community resources.

Read more about the qualifications of a AE-C in the NAECB Handbook.

In order to become AE-C, you must take and pass the AE-C exam monitored by the National Board for Respiratory Care. The exam is a voluntary testing program used to assess qualified health professionals knowledge in asthma education. Certification is voluntary and is not required by law for employment in the field.

You can find exam information and registration, eligibility requirements, testing resources, the candidate handbook, and additional information at the NBRC website.

You can verify Asthma Educator credentials at the NBRC website: https://practitionerportal.nbrc.org/directory/all

In order to maintain the AE-C, you must complete at least 35 hours of continuing education within 5 years. You can apply for recertification at the NBRC website. You can learn more about recertification by continuing education as a AE-C in the recertification handbook.