Timing & validity
Why is it important to schedule a physician's appointment during the suggested timeframe?
It is important not to be clinically cleared too early, in order for your clearance to maintain validity for the entire academic year.
How long is clinical clearance valid for?
Clinical clearance is valid for one year. Students in two-year programs will be given instructions on how to obtain clearance prior to senior-year orientation. The clearance process going into the second year is simpler (fewer tests involved) and less costly.
Deadlines
What happens if one is not cleared by the stated deadline?
There is some leeway with the clearance deadline. Students are encouraged to be cleared by orientation and can always email clinicalclearance@cahe.edu with any questions. During orientation, CAHE's Registrar Service Coordinator will review any questions regarding clinical clearance. For late enrollees, we understand you may need additional time and are more flexible with the deadline.
CPR certification
What happens if one does not have prior CPR certification?
Students with no prior CPR certification do not need to obtain it on their own. CPR certification is part of the first-quarter curriculum, and proof of certification should be updated to CastleBranch upon completion.
Why is my prior CPR/BLS certification being rejected when uploaded to CastleBranch?
CPR certification is part of CAHE's first-quarter curriculum, and only CAHE CPR/BLS cards are approved in CastleBranch. If you have previously achieved certification, you would still have to redo it in order for the card to maintain validity for the duration of your enrollment. You will still be clinically cleared before officially completing the CPR requirement, so there is no delay in beginning clinical rotations.
Immunizations & bloodwork
Why is my paperwork being rejected?
CAHE needs to see immunity for MMR, Varicella, and Hepatitis B. All students must get bloodwork drawn. If results come back positive for all of the above, the student can be cleared once paperwork is uploaded to CastleBranch. If one of the results comes back negative, students must get an initial "booster," then return in four weeks for a titer to confirm that the booster improved immunity. Students will be medically cleared after submitting proof of the booster but remain responsible for completing the titer requirement afterward.
What is the difference between Hepatitis B surface antibody and antigen?
The surface antibody test detects antibodies and the lab report should be positive. The surface antigen test detects an active infection and the report should be negative. Please remind your physician to order both Hepatitis B requirements, as the antigen is sometimes excluded. If results are opposite of what they should be, a booster/titer/Hep B series will be required.
Is the flu shot required?
The flu shot is required. Flu season is generally from late August to March. If you are being cleared outside of flu season, you can hold off on getting the flu shot until it becomes available.
Drug testing
Which drug-test option should be selected in LabCorp?
Select "Employment Drug Testing." Visit labcorp.com to find a nearby LabCorp location to schedule your drug screening.
Uploading & processing
How do I upload documents?
Supporting documentation must be a scanned PDF, not a picture. A free scanning app for your phone is available from Adobe Acrobat.
Once my paperwork is uploaded to CastleBranch, how long does it take to be cleared?
Generally, the process takes up to 3–4 business days if all paperwork is submitted in a timely manner.
Contact
All clinical clearance questions and concerns should be emailed to clinicalclearance@cahe.edu with your name in the subject line.