Persons who view this poster will:
1. describe the Health Educator Practice Act.
2. summarize CHES perceptions of the impact of the Act.
3. assess advocacy efforts to advance the health education profession.
In 1997, Arkansas became the first state to enact legislation regulating “persons engaged in the practice of health education.” This poster presents the results of a web-based survey to determine the impact of this law (the Arkansas Health Educator Practice Act). Certified Health Education Specialists in Arkansas responded to survey items designed to elicit their perceptions of outcomes resulting from the Act. Additional items queried health educators about advocacy efforts related to hiring CHES. Results of the survey will be presented. In brief the findings indicated some Arkansas CHES experienced salary increases and most reported increased recognition as a result of the Act. The greatest impact noted by CHES was improved employer support for continuing education. However, survey results showed many respondents were not familiar with the Act and with advocacy efforts that had been undertaken in Arkansas. Results of this study indicated a need for increased efforts to educate health education students about the Act and provide them with advocacy training. Additionally efforts should be made to educate practicing health educators about the Act and to support continued advocacy for the profession. Respondent's suggestions for advocating for health education will be presented.