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The MSK Essentials: Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Certificate Program
The MSK Essentials: Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Certificate Program
Unlock Your Potential with the Musculoskeletal Essentials Mastery Certification
September 8, 2025 - May 25, 2026
Program Overview:
Dive into a transformative journey that equips clinicians with specialized knowledge and skills to prevent, evaluate, and manage musculoskeletal conditions across the lifespan.
Musculoskeletal issues are prevalent, with 15-30% of primary care visits and 20% of emergency room visits in the USA attributed to these conditions. They are also a leading cause of long-term disability, highlighting the critical need for effective management and treatment.
Our comprehensive program offers a holistic approach to musculoskeletal health and orthopedic care to bridge the gap in medical training and address unmet educational needs.
Onsite Workshop:
Students will come together in Boston for an enriching onsite workshop, where students will immerse themselves in a dynamic event featuring renowned clinicians in orthopedics and sports medicine. This hands-on experience offers attendees the chance to refine their expertise in physical examination techniques, advanced diagnostics, casting, splinting, and the administration of joint and bursal injections and aspirations.
Discussion Board:
Purpose: To assist students in mastering orthopedic and sports medicine concepts, and to provide feedback on performance in mastery.
Assignment Guidelines: Discussion prompts will be posed each week that there is no exam. You should enter the discussion a minimum of 2 days each week. Post one initial and individual response to the discussion per module. Try to respond to different individuals during the course. You must comment about what you found surprising, new, provocative, confusing, etc. It is not sufficient to say “good job” or “interesting” without further explanation.” The initial post is due Wednesday, and the response is due by Friday.
Illustrate your point with examples and relate personal experiences. Link to articles and your resources that support the information you put forth. Be concise and develop your idea in 200 words or fewer.
Weekly Case Study Calls:
Case studies will be posted each week when there is no exam. Provide your response to the prompts in the case study and support your work with citations. References should be in APA format and robust. Provide links to articles and resources that support your work. Case study responses should be between 200 and 800 words.
Course Pathway:Delineated Musculoskeletal Essentials I, II, III Online Format Faculty: Karen M. Myrick, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, ONP-C, FAAN
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Why Choose Us:
- Learn from experienced faculty members renowned in the field of musculoskeletal health and orthopedics.
- Rigorous curriculum designed to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals.
- A flexible online format allows you to balance your education with your professional commitments.
- Engage in hands-on workshops and interactive discussions for practical, real-world insights.
- Join a supportive community of clinicians dedicated to advancing musculoskeletal care.
Criteria & Pre-Requisites:
Graduate of an accredited APRN or PA program.
Alternatively, while still enrolled in an NP or PA program, Advanced Health Assessment is completed.
Tuition:
Tuition Cost: $9,500
- Early bird enrollment: $7,125 (25% discount)
- Use coupon code MSKORTHO25 at checkout
- Enroll before August 9, 2025
Please contact [email protected] if you have questions regarding tuition.
Cancellation Policy (prior to course start date):
A refund minus a $100.00 administrative fee will be issued for refund requests received by August 25, 2025.
Below is the refund schedule for FULL TERMS once the program begins:
- Week one of a semester - 100% (9/8-9/14) minus a $100.00 administrative fee
- Week two of a semester - 80% (9/15–9/21)
- Week three of a semester - 60% (9/22-9/28)
- Week four of a semester - 40% (9/29-10/5)
- Week five of a semester - 20% (10/6-10/12)
- After week five - NO REFUNDS (10/13)
There are no exceptions to these policies.
All requests must be made in writing prior to the end of the week of cancellation. Please contact [email protected] for any questions.
Target Audience:
The target audience for a specialty certificate in orthopedics and sports medicine for advanced practice providers (NPs and PAs) includes individuals who possess a strong interest and commitment to advancing their skills and knowledge in the specialized areas of orthopedics and sports medicine.
- Advanced Practice Providers (NPs and PAs): The primary audience consists of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) who have already completed their basic training or are in an NP or PA program and are actively practicing in the field of healthcare. They are looking to further specialize in orthopedics and sports medicine to enhance their clinical expertise and provide more comprehensive care to their patients.
- Healthcare Professionals Seeking Specialization: This certificate program would attract NPs and PAs who are passionate about orthopedic and sports medicine and are seeking opportunities to specialize in these areas. They may already be working in orthopedic clinics, sports medicine practices, primary care settings, or other relevant healthcare environments.
- Career Advancers: Individuals who aim to advance their careers in orthopedics and sports medicine would be drawn to this certificate program. They may see it as a pathway to career advancement, increased job opportunities, higher earning potential, and greater professional recognition within the healthcare industry.
- Continuing Education Participants: Healthcare professionals committed to lifelong learning and staying current with the latest advancements in their field would find value in this certificate program. They seek opportunities to expand their knowledge base, learn new techniques, and integrate evidence-based practices into their clinical work.
- Passionate about Orthopedics and Sports Medicine: The target audience includes individuals who have a genuine passion for orthopedic conditions, musculoskeletal health, and sports-related injuries. They are motivated to deepen their understanding of these specialized areas and develop the skills necessary to provide effective, patient-centered care.
- Diverse Backgrounds and Experience Levels: The audience may include NPs and PAs with varying levels of experience in orthopedics and sports medicine, ranging from those who are relatively new to the field to seasoned practitioners looking to refine their expertise.
- Commitment to Patient Care Excellence: Above all, the target audience is characterized by its dedication to delivering high-quality care to patients with orthopedic injuries, musculoskeletal conditions, and sports-related ailments. They prioritize patient outcomes, safety, and satisfaction in their professional practice.
Overall, the target audience for a specialty certificate in orthopedics and sports medicine for NPs and PAs encompasses individuals who are driven, passionate, and committed to advancing their careers and delivering exceptional care in these specialized areas of healthcare.
Program Outcomes & Learning Objectives:
- Prepare the graduate to work in a wide variety of settings, from primary care to orthopedic and sports medicine in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
- Learn advanced assessment of the musculoskeletal system, including special tests.
- Prepare clinicians to diagnose a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries across the life span.
- Prepare clinicians to manage a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries across the life span.
- Prepare clinicians to provide health maintenance and prevention of injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
- Educate the clinician to perform skills necessary for clinical practice in orthopedics and sports medicine, such as splinting and casting, joint and bursal injections and aspirations, suturing and reduction of dislocations and fractures.
- Identify practice models for advanced practice clinicians within orthopedics and sports medicine.
REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS:
AAOS Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care: 6th Edition (Textbook)
Authors: AAOS, April Armstrong, Mark C. Hubbard
ISBN:9781284223347
Cost $183.95
Application Process:
This is a 38-week specialty certificate program.
Requirements for admission include graduation from, or current enrollment in an NP or PA program.
If currently enrolled in an AGNP, FNP or PA program, you must have completed Advanced Physical Assessment, Advanced Pharmacology and Advanced Pathophysiology prior to the fall start date. Transcripts need to be uploaded for review.
There are no clinical hours included with this certificate.
Two letters of recommendation and a personal statement that describes your motivation to complete the program and your professional aspirations with the specialty certificate are required.
Ready to Advance Your Career?
Enroll today and embark on your journey to becoming a certified expert in musculoskeletal health and orthopedics!
Elevate your expertise in musculoskeletal health!
CE Information:
In support of improving patient care, MGH Institute of Health Professions is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Physicians
MGH Institute of Health Professions designates this live activity for a maximum of 64.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ™. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in this activity.
Nursing
MGH Institute of Health Professions designates this activity for 64.5 contact hours for nurses.
Physician Assistants
MGH Institute of Health Professions has been authorized by the American Academy of PAs (AAPA) to award AAPA Category 1 CME credit for activities planned in accordance with AAPA CME Criteria. This activity is designated for 64.5 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. Approval is valid until 6/26/2026. PAs should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation.
COHORT 2
The MSK Essentials: Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Certificate Program
September 2025 – May 2026
Musculoskeletal Essentials I (WEEKS 1 – 14)
Musculoskeletal Essentials II (WEEKS 15 – 30)
Musculoskeletal Essentials III (WEEKS 31 – 37)
Date | Topics | Outcomes | Outline | Assignments/Readings |
WEEK 1 9/8/2025 | General Orthopedics | Understand the components of the MSK Specialty Certificate Program. Discuss the elements of a comprehensive orthopedic examination. | Welcome! Principles of Musculoskeletal Evaluation Overview Anatomy Pain Diagram Physical Exam | Section 1 Pages: 4-14 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 2 9/15/2025 | General Orthopedics | Describe the assessment, management and treatment of patients with amputations Discuss chronic inflammatory condition Identify complementary and alternative options for the treatment of osteoarthritis. | Amputations Chronic Inflammatory Conditions Complementary and Alternative Treatment of Osteoarthritis
| Section 1 Pages: 15-58 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 3 9/22/2025 | General Orthopedics | Identify drugs used in orthopedics. Describe the treatment for the older population of orthopedic patients | Other Conditions Medications | Section 1 Pages: 80-108 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 4 9/29/2025 | General Orthopedics | Discuss the principles of evaluation of orthopedic injuries and conditions with imaging. Describe the principles of MSK infection diagnosis and treatment | Imaging Principles and Techniques Infection | Section 1 Pages: 109-125 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 5 10/6/2025 | General Orthopedics | Describe principles of MSK conditioning and rehabilitation. Identify tumors in the MSK system. | Musculoskeletal Conditioning and Rehabilitation Tumors Pain Issues Preoperative Evaluation Regenerative Medicine | Section 1 Pages: 127-199; 214-263 (skim) Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 6 10/13/2025 | General Orthopedics | Identify treatment techniques and options for concussion Describe identification and treatment of overuse injuries | Sports Medicine Concussion Overuse injuries. Traumatic Orthopedic Injuries Fracture Evaluation and Management | Section 1 Pages: 69-79 200-213, 279-317 Case Study AssignmentDiscussion Board Participation |
WEEK 7 10/20/2025 | Midterm Exam | |||
WEEK 8 10/27/2025 | Shoulder | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the shoulder and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the shoulder necessary to diagnose specific pathology Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common shoulder conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Overview of the Shoulder Anatomy Pain Diagram Physical Examination of the Shoulder
| Section 2 Pages: 324-346 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 9 11/3/2025 | Shoulder | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the shoulder and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the shoulder necessary to diagnose specific pathology Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common shoulder conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Shoulder I Injections, Aspirations and Procedures of the Shoulder I
| Section 2 Pages: 347-382 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 10 11/10/2025 | Shoulder | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the shoulder and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the shoulder necessary to diagnose specific pathology Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common shoulder conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Shoulder II Injections, Aspirations and Procedures of the Shoulder II | Section 2 Pages: 383-427 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 11 11/17/2025 | Elbow and Forearm | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the elbow and forearm and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the elbow and forearm necessary to diagnose specific pathology | Overview of the Elbow and Forearm Anatomy Pain diagram Physical Examination of the Elbow and Forearm
| Section 3 Pages: 434-445 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 12 11/24/2025 | Elbow and Forearm | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common elbow and forearm conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Elbow and Forearm I Injections, Aspirations and Procedures of the Elbow and Forearm I
| Section 3 Pages: 446-463 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 13 12/1/2025 | Elbow and Forearm
| Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common elbow and forearm conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Elbow and Forearm II Injections, Aspirations and Procedures of the Elbow and Forearm II | Section 3 Pages: 463-490 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 14 12/8/2025 | Final Exam | |||
WEEK 15 12/15/2025 | Wrist and Hand
| Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the wrist and hand and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the wrist and hand necessary to diagnose specific pathology | of the Wrist and Hand Anatomy Pain diagram Physical Examination Wrist and Hand | Section 4 Pages: 498-516 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
HOLIDAY BREAK
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WEEK 16 1/5/2026 | Wrist and Hand | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common wirst and elbow conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Wrist and Hand I Injections, Aspirations and Procedures I
| Section 4 Pages: 517-570 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 17 1/12/2026 | Wrist and Hand | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common wirst and elbow conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Wrist and Hand II Injections, Aspirations and Procedures of the Wrist and Hand II | Section 4 Pages: 571-624 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 18 1/19/2026 | Hip and Thigh | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the hip and thigh and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the hip and thigh necessary to diagnose specific pathology
| Overview of the Hip and Thigh Physical Examination of the Hip and Thigh Anatomy Pain diagram Injections, Aspirations and Procedures of the Hip and Thigh | Section 5 Pages: 630-650 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 19 1/26/2026 | Hip and Thigh | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common hip and thigh conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Hip and Thigh | Section 5 Pages: 651-716 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 20 2/2/2026 | Midterm Exam | |||
WEEK 21 2/9/2026 | Knee and Lower Leg | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the knee and lower leg and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the knee and lower leg necessary to diagnose specific pathology | Overview of the Knee and Lower Leg Anatomy Pain diagram Physical Exam of the Knee and Lower Leg | Section 6 Pages: 722-748 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 22 2/16/2026 | Knee and Lower Leg | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common knee and lower leg conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions I of the Knee and Lower Leg Injections, Aspirations and Procedures I of the Knee and Lower Leg
| Section 6 Pages: 748-798 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 23 2/23/2026 | Knee and Lower Leg | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for common knee and lower leg conditions Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions II of the Knee and Lower Leg Injections, Aspirations and Procedures II of the Knee and Lower Leg | Section 6 Pages: 799-851 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 24 3/2/2026 | Foot and Ankle | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the foot and ankle and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the foot and ankle necessary to diagnose specific pathology | Overview of the Foot and Ankle Anatomy Pain diagram Physical Examination of the Foot and Ankle | Section 7 Pages: 860-887 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 25 3/9/2026 | Foot and Ankle | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for foot and ankle condition Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions I of the Foot and Ankle Injections, Aspirations and Procedures I of the Foot and Ankle
| Section 7 Pages: 892-952 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 26 3/16/2026 | Foot and Ankle
| Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for foot and ankle condition Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions II of the Foot and Ankle Injections, Aspirations and Procedures II of the Foot and Ankle
| Section 7 Pages: 953-1014 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 27 3/27/2026 | On-Campus Workshop Day | |||
WEEK 28 3/24/2026 | Spine | Explain the relationship between MSK anatomy of the spine and common conditions Describe the physical examination maneuvers of the spine necessary to diagnose specific pathology | Overview of the Spine Anatomy Pain diagram Physical Exam of the Spine | Section 8 Pages: 1020-1054 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 29 3/30/2026 | Spine | Formulate differential diagnoses based on clinical history, specific physical examination findings and diagnostic test results. Discuss common treatment strategies for spine condition Identify red flags in the case of pathologies | Conditions of the Spine Injections of the Spine
| Section 8 Pages: 1055-1111 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 30 4/6/2026 | Final Exam | |||
WEEK 31 4/13/2026 | Pediatric | List the differences in the care of adult and pediatric orthopedic patients. Identify common physical examination techniques for pediatric orthopedic patients. | Overview Physical Examination | Section 9 Pages:1120-1133 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 32 4/20/2026 | Pediatric
| Differentiate common congenital and acquired orthopedic injuries and conditions. Acquire foundational knowledge and skills in pediatric orthopedics, enabling the effective assessment, diagnosis, and management of musculoskeletal conditions in children, with an emphasis on promoting optimal growth and development. | Pediatric Conditions I | Section 9 Pages: 1134-1167 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 33 4/27/2026 | Pediatric | Differentiate common congenital and acquired orthopedic injuries and conditions Develop a comprehensive understanding of pediatric orthopedics, focusing on the unique aspects of musculoskeletal health in children, and the ability to implement appropriate interventions for common orthopedic conditions. | Pediatric Conditions II | Section 9 Pages: 1172-1200 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation
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WEEK 34 5/4/2026 | Pediatric | Recognize most common fractures in the pediatric population and describe the diagnosis and management of each. | Pediatric Conditions III | Section 9 Pages: 1201-1223 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 35 5/11/2026 | Pediatric | Gain essential knowledge and competencies in pediatric orthopedics to effectively evaluate, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal issues in children, ensuring their healthy development and function. Recognize the components of the preparticipation physical examination in sports. | Pediatric Conditions IV | Section 9 Pages: 1224-1274 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 36 5/18/2026 | Pediatric | Differentiate common congenital and acquired orthopedic injuries and conditions | Pediatric Conditions V | Section 9 Pages: 1275-1322 Case Study Assignment Discussion Board Participation |
WEEK 37 5/25/2026 | Final Exam | |||
Note: Continuous Improvement:
The contents of this syllabus may be added to, deleted from, or altered if the faculty believes it is necessary to achieve the course objectives. New material appropriate to contemporary practice may be added by the instructor during the course.
Karen M. Myrick, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, ONP-C, FAAN
Karen M. Myrick, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, ONP-C, FAANP, FAAN, is a distinguished Professor of Nursing and Clinical Professor of Medicine, renowned for her unparalleled expertise in orthopedics and sports medicine. Serving as the track coordinator for a Post-Master's Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Certificate program for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants, Dr. Myrick shapes the future of healthcare professionals with her extensive knowledge and experience.
In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Myrick maintains an active clinical practice as a nurse practitioner in an orthopedic urgent care setting, where she provides exceptional care to patients with various musculoskeletal injuries, including hip conditions.
With a profound commitment to advancing healthcare through research, Dr. Myrick's focus on athletes and sports medicine has garnered multiple grants, enabling her to pioneer innovative approaches in clinical health assessment. Notably, she has authored and edited several authoritative textbooks, solidifying her status as a thought leader in the field. Dr. Myrick's groundbreaking work includes the development, testing, and publication of a novel physical examination technique for diagnosing hip labral tears, revolutionizing diagnostic practices in orthopedic care. Dr. Myrick has no financial disclosures to report.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Karen is a dedicated triathlete, martial artist, and runner, embodying the synergy between her personal interests and professional expertise. Her passion for an active lifestyle underscores her deep understanding of the biomechanics and rehabilitation of hip injuries, enriching her contributions to both research and clinical practice.
Available Credit
- 64.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of IHP and Massachusetts General Hospital. IHP is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
IHP designates this Enduring activity for a maximum of 64.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
- 64.50 Nursing Contact Hours
Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 13, sections 13, 14, 14A, 15 and 15D and Chapter 112, sections 74 through 81C authorize the Board of Registration in Nursing to regulate nursing practice and education.
This program meets the requirements of the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing (244 CMR 5.00) for 64.50 contact hours of nursing continuing education credit. Advance practice nurses, please note: Educational activities which meet the requirements of the ACCME (such as this activity) count towards 50% of the nursing requirement for ANCC accreditation.
- 64.50 Participation
This course allows other providers to claim a Participation Certificate upon successful completion of this course.
Participation Certificates will specify the title, location, type of activity, date of activity, and number of AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ associated with the activity. Providers should check with their regulatory agencies to determine ways in which AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ may or may not fulfill continuing education requirements. Providers should also consider saving copies of brochures, agenda, and other supporting documents.
Price
Early bird enrollment: $7,125 (25% discount)
- Use coupon code MSKORTHO25 at checkout
- Enroll before August 9, 2025
The course begins September 8, 2025, and ends May 25, 2026.
Please get in touch with [email protected] if you have questions regarding tuition.