Specializations

MLA specializations help you obtain an additional level of expertise in a specific health information field and provide access to new resources. Each program requires the completion of an approved curriculum of courses. Courses and other educational offerings are MLA-approved and developed for each specialization.

Completing a specialization program will help you:

improve health information services
create partnerships
enhance ownership of health information expertise
learn best practices in providing health information services

	Systematic Review Services Specialization Earning a Systematic Review Services Specialization (SRSS) shows employers and colleagues that you have the information retrieval and management skills to support users and researchers in conducting high quality and reproducible systematic reviews.
	Consumer Health Information Specialization The MLA Consumer Health Information Specialization (CHIS) offers training in providing health information services to consumers and recognition for the accomplishment of acquiring new health information skills. By earning your CHIS, you acquire skills and knowledge needed to become a confident, expert provider of health information to your community.
	Data Services Specialization Earning the MLA Data Services Specialization (DSS) indicates that you have received training in providing data services to researchers, clinicians, students, librarians, and others who work with data--and recognition for the accomplishment of acquiring skills in providing data services. A Level I DSS certificate is available now. A Level II certificate is planned for 2023.
	Disaster Information Specialization IMPORTANT NOTICE: MLA’s Disaster Information Specialization to Sunset in April 2023. See the Disaster Information Specialization page for more information The Disaster Information Specialization (DIS) provides participants the opportunity to expand their roles by offering training in providing access to information for disaster and emergency preparedness. Complete required courses for the Level I and an additional 12 contact hours if applying for Level II.