HIV/AIDS Nursing Certification Board (HANCB)

In 1996, ANAC supported the creation of a separate corporation, the HIV/AIDS Nursing Certification Board (HANCB). The purpose of the new entity was to develop and administer an HIV nursing certification examination. The first examination was administered in October 1996 at the ANAC conference in Chicago. Candidates who successfully passed the proctored exam were entitled to use the ACRN credential (AIDS Certified Registered Nurse) for four (4) years; in 2000, the initial ACRNs completed the first recertification process. Currently, the ACRN examination is administered twice a year (Spring and Fall) via computer at more than 700 sites in the USA and Canada. Since 2003, the HANCB also administers the AACRN (Advanced ACRN) for Advanced Practice Nurses working with HIV/AIDS in a variety of clinical, research, and academic settings. In 2002, the HANCB moved to a self-managed structure, moved their offices to the ANAC headquarters, and appointed Adele Webb as their first Executive Director. HANCB Presidents have included:  Barbara Rickert (1996-1997), Susan Holman (1997-1998), Deena Schmidt (1998-1999), Felissa Lashley (1999-2000), Richard Ferri (2000-2001), Michael Relf (2001-2003), R. Kevin Mallinson (2003-2005), Gregory Grevera (2005-2007), and Robin Hardwicke (2007-2009).

To visit the HANCB website or to learn more about ACRN and AACRN certification, please click here.

To obtain information on the August ACRN Review Course in Newark, DE, please click here.

Contact HANCB by telephone at 800-260-6780 or (330) 670-0101, or at our address, 3538 Ridgewood Road, Akron, OH 44333-3122, or email questions to Peetie Newman.