The Public Advisor’s Role with the NBRC

The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) requires its accredited certification programs have a public advisor on their board. This person serves as a voting member on the governing body of the certification program and represents the interests of the public. Public advisors offer unique insights to certification programs by enhancing their board’s credibility and serving as an outside perspective.

Glenna Tinney, MSW, ACSW, DCSW, has served as the NBRC’s public advisor since 2015. Her personal history with respiratory conditions makes her a great advocate in this role. During her 24 years of active duty as a social worker, she has gained experience with scope of practice, certification, credentialing and accreditation in the Navy Medical Department as an advisor to the Navy Surgeon General, as well as, after retirement from the Navy with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Glenna is an integral part of our board and is a member of most of the standing committees. In her role as public advisor, she helps amplify discussions by introducing ideas that may not have occurred to members of the profession. Her opinions help reframe concepts which in turn reveal new solutions or perspectives. “I enjoy acting as a representative for patients and their families to ensure they receive quality care and services from respiratory therapists,” said Glenna.

Glenna strives to be forward-thinking in terms of the healthcare environment and sensitive to the public interest. “I truly enjoy being a public advisor for the NBRC and look forward to continuing my role as a respiratory care advocate.” We appreciate Glenna’s expertise and dedication in her public advisor role.