MU Extension gains joint accreditation for health care education

COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension’s Continuing Education for Health Professions (CEHP) unit, which is part of the MU Office of Health Outreach, Policy & Education, has earned Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education. This designation allows MU Extension to offer accredited continuing education for multiple health care professions through one streamlined process. Only a small number of organizations nationwide hold this recognition.

With joint accreditation, CEHP can create education designed for entire health care teams, such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists and other professionals, without needing separate approval from multiple accrediting bodies.

For Missouri’s health care workforce, including those in underserved rural and urban areas, this means fewer administrative barriers, more efficient program delivery and greater access to high-quality education that supports both professional growth and workforce readiness, said Thom Pancella, director of Continuing Education for Health Professions at MU Extension.

“Health care is a team effort, and continuing education should reflect that,” said Pancella. “Joint accreditation allows us to design education that strengthens the health care workforce by supporting collaboration, reducing barriers to participation and helping professionals build the skills they need to serve their communities.”

This milestone highlights MU Extension’s unique role as a leader in Missouri health care education and access, he said. By simplifying the accreditation process, CEHP can respond more quickly to workforce needs and expand access to education for health care professionals no matter where they practice.

Joint accreditation also strengthens MU Extension’s public mission by supporting a strong, well-prepared health care workforce, he added. Team-based continuing education helps improve collaboration, coordination of care and patient outcomes, which are key priorities across Missouri’s health care system.

“Our goal is to offer education that’s practical, relevant and easy to access,” Pancella said. “Joint accreditation helps us meet health care professionals where they are and deliver programs that truly support their work.”

CEHP is inviting health care professionals and organizations across Missouri to help shape future continuing education offerings. To share ideas for program topics or disciplines you would like to see included, email cehp@missouri.edu.