The Centre for Professional Development’s strategic alliance partnership with the Canadian College of Health Leaders is beneficial to CPD learners who wish to expand their career opportunities and achieve a Canadian Health Executive (CHE) designation.
As part of both the Leadership & Management and Clinical Leadership in Long-term Care Certificates, CPD has embedded the LEADS – Caring Environment Framework and Leadership Self-Assessment within its curriculum to provide learners with the appropriate foundations to pursue a CHE designation and to become a member of the CCHL at a reduced rate.
This partnership is something previous participant A.J. Lopez says has benefited him in his career as a health care leader. Not only does CCHL membership provide mentorship opportunities for aspiring health system leaders, but it also gives participants access to a professional network of established health care leaders nation-wide.
“I think this partnership is a unique opportunity that fosters growth in health care leaders and helps them develop the skills necessary to address and tackle issues in various sectors while creating positive and lasting change,” says Lopez who is a Senior Clinical Program Director in the acute care sector.
In addition to providing a pathway to membership in the CCHL, this alliance also allows members to receive advanced standing – meaning they have less requirements when applying for their Certified Health Executive or CHE designation.
The CHE is the only leadership designation in Canada for health leaders. It indicates that a person has demonstrated significant expertise, credibility and commitment to leadership excellence. For learners like Lopez, who is also now an adjunct lecturer with CPD, it has meant advancement in his career and a well-rounded insight into the healthcare system that has built upon his previous graduate degree.
“This is a rewarding opportunity for learners. It balances education and leadership in a tangible and relevant way for people’s careers, while also providing ongoing professional development,” says Lopez. “I highly recommend that other learners make use of this partnership between the CCHL and CPD and its benefits.”