Regulatory briefing.

Q: As an administrator, I've considered attending professional conferences in the past but have never gone. Are conference experiences worth the hefty price tag?

A: The benefits of professional development and networking--as well as being able to recharge your batteries and commiserate with your colleagues--are practically immeasurable. In addition, every conference provides continuing education units (CEUs) toward licensure. Such educational opportunities are not only necessary to stay in touch with the field, but are also required by law. Most states require licensees to acquire a certain number of CEUs annually.

Even if CEUs offered at a conference are not approved for credits toward your licensure, some state licensure boards will consider granting CEUs if you provide sufficient justification and documentation. Furthermore, adding travel, hotel, and other costs to conference registration fees may still compare favorably with the costs of attending local in-services, which usually cost more per unit.

Some examples of professional and trade associations offering quality education as well as networking opportunities include the American College of Health Care Administrators, the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, and the American Health Care Association. These organizations also offer list-servs--e-mail chat groups--in which members can share policies, best practices, and programs. Check their Web sites for further information on upcoming conferences and meetings. Don't forget to investigate your state association's offerings, as well.

From Briefings on Long-Term Care Regulations, by Julian Rich, president and CEO of Penacook Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Haverhill, Mass., published by HCPro, Inc. (www.hcpro.com). Nursing Homes/Long Term Care Management bears no responsibility for the opinions/advice contained herein.