Top 11 Admitting Representative Certifications

Certifications for admitting representatives demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. For those looking to enter the job market, having certifications can provide an advantage over other applicants who may not have them. Certifications show potential employers that the applicant has taken the time to gain specialized knowledge in healthcare and patient care, which is valuable in a competitive job market. In addition, certifications also indicate that an individual is committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends and standards. This can be a great asset when it comes to providing quality care to patients.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Admitting Representatives and explains how they can help advance an admitting representative's career.

What are Admitting Representative Certifications?

Admitting Representative Certification is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM) that recognizes individuals in the healthcare field who demonstrate knowledge, skill, and competency in patient access services. This certification is designed to validate the knowledge and expertise of those who are responsible for ensuring that patients are admitted to the hospital or clinic efficiently and accurately. This credential is seen as an industry standard for healthcare workers who handle patient admissions.

Having this certification demonstrates that an individual has a comprehensive understanding of the admitting process and its related regulations, laws, procedures, policies and practices. It also shows that they have attained a high level of proficiency by successfully completing NAHAM’s exam. Having this certification can help with career advancement opportunities as well as providing reassurance to employers that they have hired someone qualified to accurately complete their job duties. It also helps with building credibility among peers in the field and improving job performance by increasing knowledge base related to patient access services.

Pro Tip: When admitting representative certification, make sure to thoroughly research the credentials and qualifications of the individual. Verify any certifications or licenses they hold and confirm that the professional has the necessary experience to provide sound advice and guidance.

Related: What does an Admitting Representative do?

Top 11 Admitting Representative Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Admitting Representatives today.

1. Certified Patient Access Specialist (CPAS)

A Certified Patient Access Specialist (CPAS) is a healthcare professional who specializes in patient access services. They are responsible for providing efficient and effective patient access services, including registering patients, scheduling appointments, verifying insurance coverage, collecting co-pays and deductibles, and other related tasks. CPAS must possess excellent communication skills and be knowledgeable about medical terminology and coding.

It typically takes between 6 months to a year to become certified as a CPAS. The certification process involves completing an accredited program from an approved institution or organization such as the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM). After completing the program, individuals must pass the NAHAM Certified Patient Access Specialist Exam to earn their certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the institution or organization offering the program. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for tuition and fees associated with the program. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and study materials.

2. Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA)

Certified Healthcare Access Associate (CHAA) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM). This program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a variety of healthcare access roles. The CHAA certification provides employers with assurance that their staff has been trained and certified in the areas of patient access, customer service, insurance verification, pre-registration, registration, scheduling, financial counseling, and other related topics.

The CHAA certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To obtain the CHAA certification, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of experience working in a healthcare access role or completing an approved training program. Once these requirements are met, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, insurance verification, pre-registration and more.

The cost for obtaining the CHAA certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 USD depending on the provider and any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

3. Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR)

A Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR) is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the revenue cycle management of healthcare organizations. The certification is offered by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) and requires a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the revenue cycle, including billing, coding, collections, accounts receivable, and reimbursement.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CRCR program depending on an individual's prior experience and knowledge. To get certified, individuals must first register with HFMA and then complete the online self-study course. Once completed, they must pass a three-hour proctored exam to earn their certification.

The cost for the CRCR program is $1,295 for members of HFMA or $1,495 for non-members. This fee includes access to the online self-study course as well as the proctored exam fee.

4. Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of medical office managers. The certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures necessary to effectively manage a medical office.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CMOM certification program. To get started, applicants must first become an AAPC member and then register for the exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as medical office management, patient relations, billing and coding, human resources management, marketing and customer service, financial management, information systems security, risk management, and legal issues.

The cost of the CMOM certification program varies depending on whether or not you are already an AAPC member. For non-members, it costs $499 for the exam fee plus $199 for the study materials. For current members of AAPC, it costs $399 for the exam fee plus $149 for study materials.

Once you have passed your exam and obtained your CMOM certification, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise in managing a medical office environment to employers or clients. You will also be eligible for additional benefits such as discounts on continuing education courses or access to exclusive job postings from employers seeking certified medical office managers.

5. Certified Medical Coding Specialist (CMCS)

A Certified Medical Coding Specialist (CMCS) is a professional who specializes in coding medical diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement purposes. This certification is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). To become a CMCS, an individual must have at least two years of experience in medical coding and pass the AAPC’s certification exam.

The certification exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $399 USD. After passing the exam, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years.

6. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is a certification offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery in medical coding and billing. The CPC certification provides coders with the knowledge and skills needed to accurately code and bill for services provided by healthcare providers.

The CPC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, ICD-10-CM/PCS codes, HCPCS Level II codes, CPT codes, E/M guidelines, modifiers, and reimbursement methodologies. The exam takes approximately 5 hours to complete.

To become a Certified Professional Coder (CPC), you must first join the AAPC and pay an annual membership fee. You must then pass the CPC exam which requires an application fee of $399 for members or $499 for non-members. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CPC certificate from AAPC.

The cost of becoming a Certified Professional Coder varies depending on whether or not you are a member of the AAPC. For members, it costs $399 for the exam application fee plus an annual membership fee of $150-$200 depending on your membership level. For non-members it costs $499 for the exam application fee plus an additional one-time membership fee of $50-$100 depending on your membership level.

7. American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management Certification (AAHAM-CRA)

The American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management Certification (AAHAM-CRA) is a certification program for healthcare administrative professionals. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals working in healthcare administration. The AAHAM-CRA certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has achieved a level of proficiency in the areas of financial management, operations management, patient access services, revenue cycle management, and customer service.

It typically takes about three months to complete the AAHAM-CRA certification process. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application along with supporting documentation such as transcripts or other proof of education and experience. Once approved, applicants must then pass a written exam that covers topics such as healthcare finance, operations management, patient access services, revenue cycle management, customer service principles and practices.

The cost of the AAHAM-CRA certification varies depending on whether you are an AAHAM member or non-member. For members it costs $350 for the application fee plus $150 for the exam fee; for non-members it costs $450 for the application fee plus $200 for the exam fee.

8. Health Care Financial Professional Certification (HCFP-C)

Health Care Financial Professional Certification (HCFP-C) is a certification program that provides healthcare financial professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the financial aspects of their organization. The HCFP-C certification is awarded by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA).

The HCFP-C certification program consists of four components: an online self-assessment, a two-day workshop, a written examination, and an oral examination. The self-assessment helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses in the areas covered by the HCFP-C exam. The two-day workshop covers topics such as finance, accounting, reimbursement, compliance, managed care, and healthcare economics. The written exam tests your knowledge of these topics and is administered at various locations around the country. Finally, the oral exam tests your ability to apply what you have learned in both the self-assessment and workshop.

It typically takes about six months to complete all four components of the HCFP-C certification program. However, this time frame can vary depending on how quickly you are able to complete each component.

To get certified as an HCFP-C professional, you must first register for the certification program through HFMA’s website or by calling HFMA directly at 800-252-4362. After registering for the program, you will receive access to an online self-assessment that will help you prepare for both the written and oral exams. You will also receive information about upcoming workshops and testing sites where you can take your exams.

The cost of becoming an HCFP-C professional varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of HFMA. For nonmembers, it costs $1125 for registration fees plus any additional fees associated with taking exams at a testing site outside of HFMA's headquarters in Chicago. For members of HFMA, it costs $875 plus any additional fees associated with taking exams at a testing site outside of HFMA's headquarters in Chicago.

9. Certified Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist (CIBCS)

Certified Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist (CIBCS) is a certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful insurance billing and coding specialists. The program focuses on developing an understanding of the insurance industry, medical terminology, coding systems, and billing processes.

It typically takes six months to complete the CIBCS program. This includes completing coursework, passing exams, and gaining hands-on experience in medical coding and billing. To get certified, you must complete a training program that meets the standards set by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). After completing your training program, you must pass two separate exams: one on Medical Terminology & Coding Principles (MTCP) and another on Insurance Billing & Coding Principles (IBCP).

The cost of getting certified depends on the training provider you choose. Generally speaking, most courses range from $1,000 - $2,500 depending on whether or not you opt for online or in-person classes. In addition to course fees, there are also exam fees which range from $150 - $200 each.

Overall, becoming a Certified Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist is an excellent way to gain valuable skills in the healthcare industry. It can open up opportunities for career advancement as well as higher salaries.

10. Registered Health Information Technician Certification (RHIT)

Registered Health Information Technician Certification (RHIT) is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and expertise in the field of health information technology. It is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

It typically takes six months to two years to complete the program, depending on how much time you have available to dedicate to studying and taking the exams. To get certified, you must first pass an exam administered by AHIMA. The cost of the exam varies depending on which version you choose, but generally ranges from $200-$400.

After passing the exam, you will need to submit an application for certification with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of continuing education credits. Once your application is approved, you will be awarded your RHIT certification.

The cost of obtaining RHIT certification varies depending on whether or not you choose to take additional courses or seminars in order to prepare for the exam. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 for all associated costs including materials and testing fees.

11. National Association of Healthcare Access Management Certification in Patient Access Services (NAHAM-CPAS).

The National Association of Healthcare Access Management Certification in Patient Access Services (NAHAM-CPAS) is a professional certification for healthcare access management professionals. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of patient access services.

To obtain the NAHAM-CPAS certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of experience in patient access services, passing an exam administered by NAHAM, and completing a minimum of 20 continuing education hours every two years. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as customer service, financial counseling, insurance verification, and more.

The cost for the NAHAM-CPAS certification application is $395 for members and $495 for non-members. The exam fee is $250 for members and $350 for non-members. After passing the exam, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 per year to maintain the certification.

Overall, it takes approximately three months to complete all requirements for the NAHAM-CPAS certification.

Do You Really Need a Admitting Representative Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. If you are looking to go into a job that requires a certification in admitting representatives, such as a hospital admissions clerk or a health care facility admitting representative, then yes, you would need an Admitting Representative Certificate. This certificate is issued by the National Association of Admitting Representatives (NAAR) and provides proof that you have met the required educational standards and have been trained in the necessary skills for this type of position.

Having an Admitting Representative Certificate can be beneficial in many ways. It shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable and capable of handling the duties associated with this type of position. It also sets you apart from other applicants who may not have taken the time to invest in getting certified. In addition, having your certification may help you qualify for higher salaries and better benefits packages than those without one.

At the end of day, though, whether or not you need an Admitting Representative Certificate is up to you and your career goals. It might be worth considering if it will help advance your career prospects or if it is something that could potentially make you more marketable as an applicant for certain positions.

Related: Admitting Representative Resume Examples

FAQs About Admitting Representative Certifications

1. What is an Admitting Representative Certification?

Answer: An Admitting Representative Certification is a certification issued by a healthcare organization that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of an admitting representative in a healthcare setting. The certification provides employers with assurance that individuals are qualified to accurately and efficiently handle patient registration, insurance verification, data entry, and other admitting functions.

2. Who can apply for an Admitting Representative Certification?

Answer: Any individual who has completed or is currently enrolled in an Admitting Representative program may apply for the certification. Additionally, those who have worked as an admitting representative for at least one year may also be eligible.

3. What are the requirements for receiving an Admitting Representative Certification?

Answer: In order to receive the certification, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, coding systems, insurance processes, and customer service. They must also complete a background check and provide proof of completion of an approved training program or one year of work experience in an admitting office setting.

4. How long does it take to receive my Admitting Representative Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to receive your certification will depend on when your application was received and how quickly you complete all requirements (such as passing the written exam). Generally speaking, it should take no more than four weeks after all requirements have been met.

5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining my Admitting Representative Certification?

Answer: Yes, there is typically a fee associated with applying for and receiving your certification which covers the cost of processing your application and administering the written exam (if applicable).