The unprecedented times we have experienced over the past year due to the COVID-19 pandemic have led many sponsors to ask some specific questions about the renewal process, adding an Additional Delivery Method (ADM), and flexibility granted by the National Registry. The following represent the more commonly asked questions and the responses of the National Registry team. 

#1. I just went through the renewal application process for Group Live, but our organization will not be using that delivery method this year. Can I apply the renewal application payment toward the Group Internet Based application?  

The renewal application is an annual process sponsors must go through to maintain their membership on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. The ADM application is what sponsors must submit if membership details need to be changed on the National Registry. For example, submitting an ADM application for Group Internet Based is making a change to a current membership and therefore requires a separate fee.  

#2. Why can’t I add the Group Internet Based delivery method during the renewal application?  

Similar to the response in question #1, the renewal and ADM application are completely separate from one another. If an organization would like to offer CPE credits under the Group Internet Based delivery method, then an ADM application must be submitted. Delivery methods cannot be interchanged (i.e., swap Group Live for Group Internet Based) because there are different requirements for Group Internet Based programs in the Statement on Standards for Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Programs (2019) (Standards). Sponsors must apply for approval for the Group Internet Based delivery method, and the National Registry team must observe one of the developed programs to ensure requirements have been met.    

#3. Why do I have to submit and pay the renewal application fees if my programs were canceled due to COVID-19? 

Sponsors on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors initially apply to become an approved member on the National Registry. Once approved, the annual renewal application is required to maintain the current status. Therefore, regardless of whether or not programs were canceled or CPE credits were not issued, if organizations would like to maintain its membership on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, then the annual renewal application and fee is a requirement. If that option does not work for the organization, membership can be discontinued. Sponsors may choose to reapply in the future when CPE is offered again.  

#4. Our attendees must have their cameras turned on (we use Zoom), so it is like we are together in a virtual classroom. Does this classify as Group Live?   

No, this would classify as Group Internet Based. The delivery method is determined by how the attendee consumes the content of the program. Group Live is defined in the Standards as “synchronous learning in a group environment with real time interaction of an instructor or a subject matter expert and built-in processes for attendance and interactivity.” Group Internet Based is defined as “individual participation in synchronous learning with a real time interaction of an instructor or subject matter expert and built-in processes for attendance and interactivity.” The key difference between the two is Group Live is where participants are physically in a group together and Group Internet Based is individual participation (i.e., at home via Zoom).  

The National Registry staff welcomes the opportunity to answer questions. Please reach out to your account manager at the National Registry or send an email to cpe@nasba.org.