Top 11 Advocate Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market in the advocacy field. They demonstrate to potential employers and clients that a person has the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to do their job. Certifications also provide a way for advocates to continue learning and developing their skills and abilities. The certifications can also serve as evidence that an advocate is dedicated to their profession and is committed to providing quality services. Finally, certifications are often required by employers or clients before they will consider hiring someone for an advocacy position. This ensures that those hired have the necessary qualifications to perform the job effectively.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Advocates and explains how they can contribute to an advocate's career by providing valuable knowledge and skills.

What are Advocate Certifications?

Advocate certification is a form of professional accreditation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in advocating for the legal rights and interests of their clients. Advocate certification is granted by an independent organization or institution, such as the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC). To receive certification, an advocate must pass a written examination, attend specialized training courses and demonstrate a commitment to continuing education.

Advocate certification offers many benefits to both advocates and their clients. Advocates with certification can earn higher salaries and gain greater respect from other professionals in their field. They are also more likely to be hired for positions that require specialized knowledge and experience. For clients, advocate certification provides assurance that they are working with an experienced professional who has the necessary qualifications to represent their interests effectively. Certified advocates also typically maintain higher standards of ethics than those without certification, which helps ensure that clients receive knowledgeable, honest advice and advocacy services.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing an advocate certification, make sure to seek out feedback from other advocates who have completed the program. This will give you a better understanding of the content and structure of the program, as well as provide insight into any potential challenges or areas of focus that may be beneficial for success.

Related: What does an Advocate do?

Top 11 Advocate Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is a certification program designed to recognize healthcare professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of healthcare quality. It is administered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). The CPHQ credential is recognized as an important indicator of professional excellence and competence in the healthcare quality profession.

To become certified, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. Eligibility requirements include having a minimum of two years of full-time experience in healthcare quality management or related areas, or having completed an approved course of study in healthcare quality management.

The CPHQ exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as risk management, performance improvement, patient safety, data collection and analysis, organizational structure, and regulatory compliance. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to take the CPHQ exam varies depending on your location and other factors. In general, it costs around $450 USD to register for the exam. This fee includes the cost of registration, materials needed to prepare for the exam (such as practice tests), and access to online resources.

2. Certified Case Manager (CCM)

Certified Case Manager (CCM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of case management. The CCM credential is granted by the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC).

It typically takes between 6-9 months to prepare for and obtain the CCM certification. This includes studying for the exam, completing an application, and passing the exam.

To become certified, individuals must first complete an online application with CCMC. The application requires applicants to provide information about their education, work experience, and other qualifications related to case management. Once approved, applicants must pass a two-part examination that covers topics such as case management principles, practices, and ethics; legal and regulatory issues; health care delivery systems; and communication skills.

The cost of obtaining the CCM credential varies depending on the applicant's circumstances. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 to apply for the certification and take the exams.

3. Certified Patient Advocate (CPA)

Certified Patient Advocate (CPA) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's commitment to patient advocacy and care. This certification is administered by the National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Consultants (NAHAC).

To become a Certified Patient Advocate, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements, as well as pass an exam. The required education includes a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in health sciences or related field, two years of healthcare experience, and completion of at least 10 hours of NAHAC-approved continuing education credits.

The exam for CPA certification consists of 125 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as medical terminology, patient rights, legal issues, communication skills, and ethical considerations. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for the CPA certification exam is $250 USD. The fee includes access to the online practice test and study guide. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CPA certificate within four weeks.

4. Certified Medical-Legal Consultant (CMLC)

A Certified Medical-Legal Consultant (CMLC) is a professional credential that is earned by individuals who have completed specialized training in the field of medical-legal consulting. This certification is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated expertise in understanding and interpreting medical records, medical terminology, and medical law.

The certification process requires applicants to complete an online application, submit official transcripts from their undergraduate or graduate degree program, and pass a written examination. The written examination consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, legal principles related to healthcare, and evidence-based medicine. The exam also includes a practical component which tests the candidate's ability to interpret medical records and apply legal principles to them.

The CMLC certification typically takes between 4-6 months to complete depending on the individual’s background knowledge and experience in the field. Applicants must also complete continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain their certification status.

The cost of obtaining the CMLC certification varies depending on the individual’s educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for tuition fees associated with completing the required coursework and taking the written examination.

5. Certified Professional Advocate (CPA)

Certified Professional Advocate (CPA) is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in advocacy, dispute resolution, and conflict management. The CPA designation is offered by the International Association of Professional Advocates (IAPA).

To become certified as a CPA, an individual must meet certain criteria including having at least five years of professional experience in advocacy, dispute resolution, or conflict management; completing at least 40 hours of training in advocacy or dispute resolution; and passing the IAPA certification exam. The certification process typically takes between three to six months to complete.

In order to apply for the CPA certification, an individual must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts and references. They must also pay a fee which varies depending on the type of application submitted. Generally speaking, the cost for applying for the CPA certification ranges from $400-$600 USD.

6. Certified Professional Advocacy Instructor (CPAI)

Certified Professional Advocacy Instructor (CPAI) is a certification program designed to provide advocacy professionals with the skills and knowledge to become effective advocates for their clients. CPAI is an intensive training program that covers both theory and practice in the areas of advocacy, communication, problem-solving, and legal issues related to advocacy. The program also provides instruction in how to develop relationships with other professionals and organizations that can support advocacy efforts.

The CPAI certification program is offered by the National Association of Advocates for Children (NAAC). It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the program, depending on the individual's learning style and availability of courses.

To get certified as a CPAI, you must first complete all required coursework. This includes an introductory course in advocacy, a course in communication skills, a course in problem-solving techniques, and a course in legal issues related to advocacy. You must also pass an exam at the end of each course. Once you have completed all required courses and passed all exams, you will be eligible to receive your CPAI certification.

The cost of the CPAI certification program varies depending on where you take the courses. Generally speaking, it can range from around $500-$1,000 USD for all required courses and exams.

7. Certified Patient Advocacy Practitioner (CPAP)

Certified Patient Advocacy Practitioner (CPAP) is a professional certification program that provides training and education in patient advocacy. This certification is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively advocate for patients, ensure their rights are protected, and help them navigate the complex healthcare system. The CPAP program is offered by the National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Consultants (NAHAC).

It takes approximately six months to complete the CPAP program. During this time, students will learn about patient advocacy principles, legal issues related to patient advocacy, communication strategies for working with patients, and how to effectively work with other healthcare providers. In addition, students will also gain an understanding of ethical considerations in patient advocacy.

To become a Certified Patient Advocacy Practitioner (CPAP), individuals must complete an online application form and submit it along with required documents such as transcripts from any higher education institutions attended, proof of current professional licensure or certification if applicable, and three letters of recommendation from healthcare professionals who can attest to their experience in patient advocacy. Once accepted into the program, students must complete all required coursework within six months.

The cost for the CPAP program varies depending on whether or not you are a NAHAC member. For non-members, the cost is $2,495; for members it is $1,995. This cost includes access to all course materials as well as access to a mentor who will provide guidance throughout the duration of the program.

8. Certified Health Care Advocate (CHCA)

A Certified Health Care Advocate (CHCA) is an individual who has completed specialized training and certification in health care advocacy. CHCAs are trained to help individuals navigate the complex and often confusing healthcare system. They provide information, resources, and assistance with understanding healthcare options, insurance coverage, and medical bills.

It typically takes between six months to a year to become certified as a CHCA. To get certified, you must complete a minimum of 60 hours of approved health care advocacy coursework, pass an exam administered by the National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Consultants (NAHAC), and pay the associated fees. The cost for certification is approximately $1,500 USD.

9. Certified Professional in Patient Advocacy (CPPA)

Certified Professional in Patient Advocacy (CPPA) is a credential that demonstrates a commitment to patient advocacy. It is the highest level of certification available for patient advocates and indicates proficiency in the field.

The CPPA credential requires applicants to have at least two years of experience as a patient advocate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by the National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Consultants (NAHAC). The exam covers topics such as medical terminology, legal issues, insurance reimbursement, communication skills, and more.

To get the CPPA credential, you must first apply for it through NAHAC. The application fee is $100. Once your application is approved, you will be able to register for the exam. The exam costs $225 and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. After passing the exam, you will receive your CPPA certificate and can begin using the designation after your name.

In total, it usually takes about six months to complete the process from start to finish.

10. Certified Legal Nurse Consultant (CLNC)

A Certified Legal Nurse Consultant (CLNC) is a registered nurse who has received specialized training and certification to become an expert in the legal aspects of nursing. The CLNC credential is awarded by the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants (AALNC).

To become a CLNC, you must have an active, unrestricted RN license and at least one year of experience as a practicing nurse. You must also complete the AALNC's Certification Program, which includes online courses, webinars, and workshops. The program consists of six modules that cover topics such as medical-legal research, client interviewing techniques, and legal nurse consulting principles. It typically takes about 6-9 months to complete the program.

The cost for the CLNC Certification Program varies depending on your membership status with AALNC. For non-members, it costs $1,695 USD; for members, it costs $1,595 USD. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $395 USD that must be paid separately upon completion of the program.

11. National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Certifications (NAHAC).

The National Association of Healthcare Advocacy Certifications (NAHAC) is a professional organization dedicated to providing certification for healthcare advocates. It is the first and only national certifying body for healthcare advocacy professionals. NAHAC was founded in 2009 to provide a formal recognition of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of healthcare advocates.

NAHAC offers two levels of certification: Certified Healthcare Advocate (CHA) and Master Certified Healthcare Advocate (MCHA). The CHA certification is designed for individuals who are new to the field or those who want to demonstrate their knowledge and experience with healthcare advocacy. The MCHA certification is designed for those who have achieved mastery in the field by demonstrating advanced knowledge and experience in healthcare advocacy.

To become certified through NAHAC, individuals must complete an application process that includes submitting evidence of their education, experience, training, and other qualifications related to healthcare advocacy. Applicants must also pass an online exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and ethics of healthcare advocacy.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are applying for the CHA or MCHA certification. The CHA exam costs $275 USD while the MCHA exam costs $350 USD. Both exams can be taken online at any time during normal business hours. The entire application process typically takes two to four weeks from start to finish.

Do You Really Need a Advocate Certificate?

An advocate certificate is a document that certifies an individual as a qualified and trained legal advocate. This type of certification is often required in order to practice law in certain jurisdictions, or to participate in certain legal proceedings. In some cases, it may also be required for those who wish to provide legal advice or representation to clients.

Whether or not you need an advocate certificate depends on your career goals and the requirements of the jurisdiction in which you plan to practice law. If you are looking to become a practicing attorney, then obtaining an advocate certificate is likely essential. In other cases, such as providing legal consultation or representation in non-court proceedings, it may not be necessary.

In general, if your goal is to practice law, then having an advocate certificate is highly recommended. It demonstrates that you have met the qualifications and training standards set by the jurisdiction’s bar association and can provide competent legal services. Furthermore, having an official certification can help build trust with potential clients by showing that you are knowledgeable about the laws and regulations governing their case.

Overall, whether or not you need an advocate certificate depends on your particular situation and career aspirations. If you are looking to practice law in a particular jurisdiction then having one may be essential for success; however if your goal is simply to provide legal consultation or advice on certain matters then it may not be necessary.

Related: Advocate Resume Examples

FAQs About Advocate Certifications

1. What is an advocate certification?

Answer: An advocate certification is a professional credential granted to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in a particular area of advocacy. It serves as a mark of recognition that can be used to demonstrate an individual's expertise and commitment to the field of advocacy.

2. How do I become certified as an advocate?

Answer: Becoming certified as an advocate typically requires completing a formal training program, passing an exam and/or providing evidence of experience in the field. Depending on the certification, you may also need to meet additional requirements such as continuing education or professional development hours.

3. What are the benefits of having an advocate certification?

Answer: Having an advocate certification can help you gain credibility among your peers and potential employers, demonstrate your expertise and proficiency in the field, provide access to resources and support from other professionals, and open up new career opportunities.

4. Is there a cost associated with obtaining an advocate certification?

Answer: Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining an advocate certification depending on which program you choose. Costs may include tuition fees for courses or programs, application fees, exam fees, etc.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as an advocate?

Answer: Prerequisites for becoming certified as an advocate vary depending on the specific certification program you are pursuing but they may include having a certain level of education, experience or training in the field of advocacy.