I am always somewhat surprised at this question but fully understand it also. Becoming certified is not just a professional responsibility but, in many ways, a duty. The duty is to us who provide care to be the best we can be and have the appropriate credential to support the knowledge base we have obtained.
Certification is one of the highly valued ways to demonstrate that advanced knowledge.
If you are a nurse practitioner or other advanced practice nurse becoming board certified in AIDS care is a sign that you take your specialty practice seriously. I take great pride in explaining to people that I nurse practitioner board certified in AIDS care. So if you are visiting the Web site today and not an ACRN I urge to become certified. Specialty certification is a hallmark of nursing pride.