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As of July 1, NSP transitioned to a new OEC Refresher model designed to simplify certification requirements, improve consistency across the organization, and provide greater flexibility for patrols while maintaining competency in essential OEC skills.

What Changed with OEC Certification?

Under the new model, OEC certification will be maintained through annual refresher participation rather than the traditional A, B, C refresher cycle.

Members who are current with their refresher requirements will hold Active OEC Status. Members who fall behind will move into a Delinquent Status, which serves as a grace period before certification is lost.

This new approach provides clearer certification tracking and makes it easier for members and patrol leaders to understand where they stand at any point in time.

Think You May Be Out of Compliance?

As we move all members into the new system on July 1, now is the time to verify your status.

If you have missed one or more refreshers in recent years, work with your Patrol Representative, Patrol Director, or local patrol leadership to determine what steps may be needed to bring your records up to date. The transition to the new model is intended to help members move forward successfully, but it is important that any outstanding compliance issues are addressed before the new certification structure takes effect.

If you're unsure of your status, don't wait—check now and work with your patrol to resolve any issues.

How the New Refresher Works

The new refresher model combines annual foundational learning with rotating content and local flexibility.

Core Content (Required Every Year): Critical OEC competencies will be reviewed annually to ensure patrollers maintain proficiency in the skills and knowledge areas most essential to patient care.

Rotating Required Content (Two-Year Cycle): Additional required topics will rotate every two years. If a topic is required one year, it may become optional the following year before returning to the required rotation. These topics are determined nationally by the OEC Refresher Committee to ensure consistent standards across the organization.

Elective Content: Patrols and individual patrollers will have access to elective content to address local operational needs, reinforce specific skills, or support continuing education interests.

Online Learning and Skills Verification

The refresher will continue to include both online learning and hands-on skills practice.

Online modules will deliver the annual core content, rotating required content, and elective learning opportunities through the NSP Center for Learning.

Hands-on skills verification will move to a two-year rotation, allowing patrols to focus on a subset of skills each year while ensuring all required skills are reviewed over time.

Importantly, the new model eliminates the need for traditional refresher "makeups." Rather than trying to recreate missed A, B, or C refreshers, members will participate in the current refresher requirements and maintain compliance through the new certification structure.

Learn More and Get Prepared

To help members prepare for the transition, we've created a comprehensive OEC Refresher Guide that outlines the new certification model, annual refresher requirements, content structure, and compliance expectations.

Download the Guide | FAQ