The objective of the study was to determine the feasibility of implementing a national voluntary system of certification of allied health personnel; specifically addressed were questions of the soundness of the concept, the readiness of the various professional groups to accept such a concept, the functions and responsibilities which would be assigned to such a system, and the expected costs of developing such a system and sources for providing necessary resources. A structured, intensive analysis of the data obtained in a series of in-depth interviews with key individuals in professional associations and registry groups, and others with a potential interest, focused on organizational factors and certification practices to clarify the potential values and problems of a national system; possible alternative approaches were defined, and a series of feedback seminars held. The major conclusion is that a system, national in scope and based on voluntary collaboration of certifying bodies, is feasible. Four acceptable alternatives exist among the various courses open to the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. To implement the recommendations made by the study, governmental support of a small interim secretariat is suggested. (AJ)