Child Abuse Clearance

The majority of Thomas Jefferson University’s clinical sites require criminal background checks and child abuse clearances for students placed in healthcare settings. Therefore, this requirement has been incorporated into Jefferson College of Health Professions of Thomas Jefferson University’s 2008-2009 pre-matriculation process and will affect all students entering the College beginning in January 2008 who participate in clinical rotations, field work, or clinical practicum.

Students in the following programs are exempt from this requirement: Master’s in Radiologic and Imaging Sciences, Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy Doctorate and all General Studies programs with the exception of the Associate in Emergency Medical Services.

The Child Abuse Clearance must be completed a month before classes start. To ensure that you meet this deadline, we encourage you to begin the process as soon as possible, but no earlier than January 1, 2008 for pre-fall and fall terms.  January 2008 applicants should begin the process immediately. 

You must complete the process as outlined here even if you have previously done a child abuse clearance with another agency or for other purposes.

Instructions

• Download and complete a Child Abuse Clearance form from the Verified Credentials website. 
  • Regardless of your state of residency, you must complete the Pennsylvania Child Abuse Clearance, and return it to the address indicated on that form. 
• The results of the Child Abuse Clearance will be mailed directly to you in up to 8 weeks.
• Give the original Child Abuse Clearance report to the Office of Admissions. (Clinical sites may request a copy at the time of placement.) 
• Questions regarding the Child Abuse Clearance should be directed to the Childline and Abuse Registry of the Department of Public Welfare for the State of Pennsylvania at 717-783-6211. 

Note that an adverse Child Abuse Clearance will result in your inability to be placed at a clinical site and consequently you would be unable to graduate from your program.  Thus, if you receive an adverse result on the Child Abuse Clearance, your offer of acceptance to Jefferson College of Health Professions will be rescinded.