Yes, the Core Modules are being phased out and are no longer a required component for CRNA recertification. The National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) has officially transitioned from the Continued Professional Certification (CPC) Program to the new Maintaining Anesthesia Certification (MAC) Program.

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As part of this transition, the Core Modules—previously a mandatory element for fulfilling the CPC requirements—have been removed. While CRNAs may still choose to complete Core Modules for personal enrichment or continuing education credits, they are no longer a required part of the certification renewal process under the MAC Program.

This change reflects a shift toward a more flexible, outcome-focused approach to certification maintenance, intended to better support lifelong learning while reducing the burden of mandated coursework.

MAC Program Components

The MAC Program simplifies and modernizes the recertification process for CRNAs by organizing it into three core components:

• MAC Check: A flexible, self-paced assessment that replaces the former CPC Assessment (CPCA). This adaptive platform evaluates current knowledge and helps guide ongoing learning needs without the high-stakes pressure of traditional testing.
• MAC Ed: Requires the completion of 60 Class A continuing education credits, which must be obtained through accredited activities directly related to nurse anesthesia practice.
• MAC Dev: Focuses on professional growth by requiring 40 Class B credits, which can be earned through a variety of activities such as teaching, mentoring, leadership roles, research, and other contributions to the profession.

Together, these components aim to support lifelong learning while reducing administrative complexity and offering CRNAs more autonomy in how they maintain their certification.

Transition Timeline & Important Notes

• All CRNAs will transition to the Maintaining Anesthesia Certification (MAC) Program by 2026. The NBCRNA will provide each CRNA with personalized transition guidance based on their individual certification timeline.
• It’s important to understand that while Core Modules are no longer required under the MAC Program, CRNAs must still complete all elements of their current Continued Professional Certification (CPC) cycle before officially moving into the MAC framework. This ensures a smooth and compliant transition without gaps in certification.
• Additionally, for CRNAs who hold the Nonsurgical Pain Management-Certified (NSPM-C) credential, a designated Core Module remains a required component for maintaining that subspecialty certification, even after transitioning to the MAC Program.

For more information and to view your personalized certification timeline, please visit the NBCRNA portal.