Re: The H. P. Profession

["Sandy Perle" <sandyfl@ix.netcom.com>]

Charlie Willis made some good points, as usual. I do have a few 
comments, though.

Charlie did mention that by attaining the CHP, one learns more by 
going through the process. he also mentioned that the statistics 
demonstrate that most who do not have a degree, do not pass. These 
statistics can be misinterpreted. There have also been comments that 
those seeking certification in other professions, also have to 
degree. If we look at some of these issues, I see the following:

1. To take a Bar Exam, one must have a Law degree. The same with a 
medical or engineering certification. If that were to hold true for 
the CHP, should we require that they have a HP degree, and exclude 
all of the other sciences? I am not suggesting this ... but other 
degrees do not allow an individual to take the few I mentioned above.

2. Resources are wasted, when non-degreed individuals seek the exam, 
and fail. What are these resources? How many take the exam currently, 
and, considering that exams are printed, proctors are used, the 
number of exam takers doesn't seem to burden any of the facilities. 
Doesn't the fact that an individual pay to take the exam, help bring 
funds to the ABHP?

3. The CHP shows extended learning. I agree. But doesn't the fact 
that an individual, degree or no degree, and one who fails the test, 
hasn't that individual gained just from studying for the exam? Isn't 
that person better able to understand the principles that a 
professional HP should understand?

4. The ABHP allows any individual with any science degree to take the 
exam. Per my point in No. 1, why should an individual with a BS in 
anthropology or botany be better suited to take and be a CHP than an 
individual who is working in the field, but just doesn't have the 
degree? I'm sorry, I just don't see the logic in that.

5. If an individual fails, so they fail. They can try again... degree 
or no degree.

None of the reasons I have seen posted to date really answer the 
thinking process that went into imposing the degree requirement. I 
also suggest that since there are many who currently holding the CHP, 
that were grandfathered into the organization, that they should ALL 
be required to take the exam, and pass, under today's testing 
requirements. Having the CHP dangling behind one's name means they 
are capable of passing an exam, but says nothing regarding their 
ability to apply what they have learned, or, have been able to 
memorize.

------------------
Sandy Perle
Technical Director
ICN Dosimetry Division
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Office: (800) 548-5100 x2306 
Fax:    (714) 668-3149
  
mailto:sandyfl@ix.netcom.com
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