A Competency Assessment File (CAF) is used as a repository for information related to individual competence for all non-privileged healthcare personnel with patient contact and is a great way to keep track of training completed specific to their duty position. Maintaining CAFs for all healthcare individuals facilitates documentation of the training portion required in the Joint Regulation on Immunizations and Chemoprophylaxis for the Prevention of Infectious Diseases (AR 40-562, BUMEDINST 6230.15B, AFI 48-110_IP, CG COMDTINST M6230.4G).
CAF Q&A
Where can I find more information about the CAF?
Contact your Credentials Coordinator or Education and Training office at your local military treatment facility (MTF).
Why should a CAF be used?
The Joint Commission requires that an annual report elaborate on the levels of competency for all MTF staff.
The Army, Air Force and Navy all have regulations requiring competency assessment for all medical professionals and paraprofessionals. Each MTF and support clinic will have in place a mechanism to assess the competence of staff and to identify training needs in accordance with service regulations related to clinical quality management.
The CAF is utilized throughout an individual's assignment or employment. It is hand carried by non-privileged professional (military/civilian) from one place of duty to the next. Privileged health care provider's credentials are maintained in either the provider credentialing file (PCF) or provider activity file (PAF) and will be electronically transferred from one facility to the next.
When should the CAF be used and updated?
Competencies will be assessed for paraprofessionals upon arrival at an MTF (Competency Based Orientation [CBO]) and annually thereafter, keeping in mind that all licenses and certifications should be up to date at all times.
How can I download the Personal Competency Assessment File & Instructions?
You are leaving Health.mil
The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense of non-U.S. Government sites or the information, products, or services contained therein. Although the Defense Health Agency may or may not use these sites as additional distribution channels for Department of Defense information, it does not exercise editorial control over all of the information that you may find at these locations. Such links are provided consistent with the stated purpose of this website.
You are leaving Health.mil
View the external links disclaimer.
Last Updated: July 11, 2023