Top 11 Health Insurance Agent Certifications

Certifications are important for health insurance agents in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the agent is knowledgeable about the industry and is qualified to do the job. They also show potential clients that an agent has the necessary skills and qualifications to provide quality service. Certification also provides a competitive edge for health insurance agents when it comes to getting hired or being considered for promotions. Certifications can also open up opportunities for further education and training, which can lead to greater career advancement in the field.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of some of the most beneficial certifications for health insurance agents and to explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Health Insurance Agent Certifications?

Health insurance agent certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the health insurance industry. This certification is typically offered by a third-party organization and requires passing an exam to demonstrate proficiency in the key aspects of health insurance, including regulations, policies, procedures, product offerings, and more.

Having a health insurance agent certification can help individuals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or seeking promotions. It can also provide them with an edge when working with clients or employers. As a credentialed health insurance agent, individuals can be seen as knowledgeable experts who understand the complexities of the industry. This can give them more credibility and trustworthiness with their peers and clients. Additionally, having a certified health insurance agent on staff can help companies ensure they are compliant with all applicable laws and regulations related to health insurance.

Pro Tip: When selecting a health insurance agent certification program, make sure it is accredited by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). This will ensure that the program meets the highest standards of education and training for health insurance agents.

Related: What does a Health Insurance Agent do?

Top 11 Health Insurance Agent Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Health Insurance Agents today.

1. Certified Health Insurance Consultant (CHIC)

A Certified Health Insurance Consultant (CHIC) is an individual who has been trained and certified to provide advice and assistance to individuals, families, and small businesses in selecting health insurance plans. CHICs are knowledgeable about the different types of health insurance plans available, including employer-sponsored group plans, individual/family plans, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans, and short-term medical coverage. They can help people compare plan options and understand their benefits.

It typically takes between three to six months to become a CHIC. The process involves completing a training program provided by an approved organization such as the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU), passing an exam administered by the NAHU or another approved organization, and obtaining continuing education credits every two years.

To become a CHIC, you must first complete a training program offered by an approved organization such as the NAHU or another approved organization. Once you have completed the training program, you must pass an exam administered by the NAHU or another approved organization in order to obtain your certification.

The cost for becoming a CHIC varies depending on which organization provides the training program and exam. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 depending on which training program you choose.

2. Certified Health Insurance Specialist (CHIS)

A Certified Health Insurance Specialist (CHIS) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU). The CHIS program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful health insurance professionals.

The CHIS program consists of three courses: Principles of Health Insurance, Advanced Health Insurance, and Professionalism & Ethics. Each course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and can be taken online or in-person. Once all three courses are completed, individuals must pass an exam to receive their certification.

The cost for the CHIS program varies depending on how the courses are taken. Online courses typically range from $150-$200 per course, while in-person courses may cost more depending on location. In addition, there is a one-time fee of $75 for the exam.

Overall, it typically takes 3-4 months to complete the CHIS program and obtain certification.

3. Certified Professional Healthcare Risk Manager (CPHRM)

Certified Professional Healthcare Risk Manager (CPHRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in healthcare risk management. The CPHRM certification is offered by the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management (ASHRM), and is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the field of healthcare risk management.

The CPHRM certification process includes an application, a written exam, and a professional portfolio review. The written exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as legal issues, patient safety, quality improvement, and risk assessment. Applicants must also submit a professional portfolio which includes documentation of their experience in healthcare risk management.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPHRM certification process. To get started, applicants must first submit an application along with all required documents and fees. Once approved, applicants can then register for the CPHRM exam and begin studying for it. After successfully completing the exam, applicants must then submit their professional portfolio for review by ASHRM’s Certification Board. Upon successful completion of both the written exam and portfolio review, applicants will be awarded their CPHRM credential.

The cost to become certified as a CPHRM varies depending on whether or not you are an ASHRM member. For non-members, the total cost is $695 USD; this includes the application fee ($125 USD), examination fee ($495 USD), and portfolio review fee ($75 USD). For members of ASHRM, the total cost is $395 USD; this includes only the examination fee ($295 USD) and portfolio review fee ($100 USD).

4. Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)

Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) is a professional designation for life insurance agents and advisors who have completed a rigorous course of study in the field of life insurance. The CLU designation is awarded by the American College, a non-profit educational institution located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.

The CLU program consists of eight courses which cover topics such as estate planning, taxation, risk management and financial planning. Candidates must pass an exam after completing each course and must also complete an ethics course. The program typically takes two to three years to complete.

In order to become a Chartered Life Underwriter, candidates must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of experience in the life insurance industry or related fields; holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; and passing all eight courses with a minimum grade of “C” or better.

The cost of the CLU program varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether they are taken online or in person. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $1,500 to $3,000 for all eight courses. Additional fees may apply for textbooks and other materials needed for the program.

5. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional certification program offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the Wharton School of Business. The CEBS designation indicates that an individual has attained a high level of knowledge and expertise in employee benefits and retirement plans.

The CEBS program consists of five courses, each focusing on a different aspect of employee benefits. The courses are: Group Benefits, Retirement Plans, Compensation Management, Health Care Reform, and Investment Fundamentals. In order to become certified, individuals must pass all five exams with a score of 70% or higher.

It typically takes between two and four years to complete the CEBS program depending on how quickly an individual can complete the coursework and exams. The cost for the CEBS program varies depending on the institution offering it but generally ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 USD.

6. Certified Managed Care Professional (CMCP)

Certified Managed Care Professional (CMCP) is a professional certification program for healthcare professionals who work in the managed care industry. It is designed to help healthcare providers understand and navigate the complexities of managed care, including reimbursement, utilization management, quality improvement, and population health. The CMCP certification is offered by the National Association of Managed Care Professionals (NAMCP).

To become certified as a CMCP, applicants must meet certain requirements and pass an exam. These requirements include having at least two years of experience in managed care or a related field and completing an approved course in managed care principles. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as managed care finance, legal issues, quality assurance, and population health management.

The cost to take the CMCP exam varies depending on whether you are a NAMCP member or non-member. For NAMCP members, the cost is $395; for non-members it is $495. Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will receive your CMCP certification which is valid for three years.

7. Accredited Healthcare Reform Consultant (AHRC)

Accredited Healthcare Reform Consultant (AHRC) is a certification program designed to help healthcare professionals understand the complexities of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The AHRC certification is offered by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), a professional organization for healthcare executives.

The AHRC program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as ACA regulations, compliance requirements, and best practices for implementing the law. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course. Upon successful completion of the course, participants are eligible to take the AHRC exam.

The AHRC exam is administered twice per year at designated test centers across the United States. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 3 hours. A passing score on the exam earns participants their AHRC certification.

The cost to register for the AHRC certification program is $495 USD, which includes access to the online course and registration for one AHRC exam session. Additional fees may apply if additional exams are needed or if special accommodations are requested.

8. Certified Health Insurance Executive (CHIE)

Certified Health Insurance Executive (CHIE) is a professional certification program offered by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). The CHIE credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of health insurance and managed care. The program focuses on the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful practice in the health insurance industry.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for CHIE certification. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an examination, and agree to adhere to ACHE's Code of Ethics. Applicants must also demonstrate their commitment to continuing education in order to maintain their certification status.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on a variety of factors such as whether or not you are already an ACHE member. Generally speaking, it will cost between $200-$500 for non-members and $100-$300 for members.

In addition to the cost of becoming certified, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending any required training sessions or seminars.

9. Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)

Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) is a professional designation offered by The American College of Financial Services. It is designed to provide financial advisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to help clients plan for their long-term financial goals.

To become a ChFC, individuals must complete a series of nine college-level courses and pass a comprehensive examination. The coursework covers topics such as estate planning, retirement planning, insurance planning, investments, income tax planning, and risk management.

The program typically takes three to five years to complete depending on the individual’s background and experience level. Individuals must have at least three years of relevant full-time work experience in order to be eligible for the program.

The cost of the program depends on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, tuition for each course ranges from $1,000-$2,500 per course. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exam which range from $200-$400 depending on the institution offering it.

Overall, obtaining the ChFC designation requires dedication and hard work but can be well worth it in terms of career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential over time.

10. Registered Health Underwriter (RHU)

Registered Health Underwriter (RHU) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual's expertise in health insurance and related products. The RHU designation is awarded by the American College of Financial Services and is recognized by the insurance industry as a mark of excellence.

The RHU program consists of three courses: Health Insurance Principles, Health Insurance Practices, and Health Insurance Law & Regulation. The program also includes a comprehensive exam that must be passed to earn the RHU designation.

It typically takes about six months to complete the RHU program, including study time for each course and passing the final exam.

To get the RHU designation, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least three years of experience in health insurance or related field, completing all three courses within two years of starting the program, and passing the final exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost to obtain the RHU designation varies depending on your membership status with The American College of Financial Services. If you are not a member, it will cost approximately $1,500 for all three courses plus an additional fee for taking the final exam.

11. Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI).

The Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI) is a professional designation awarded by the Life Office Management Association (LOMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in life insurance and financial services management.

To qualify for the FLMI designation, an individual must have at least three years of full-time experience in life insurance or financial services management and must pass a series of examinations. The exams cover topics such as accounting, finance, operations, marketing, law, ethics, and economics.

The FLMI program consists of five courses: Principles of Insurance, Financial Services Fundamentals, Advanced Financial Services Concepts, Life and Health Insurance Operations and Administration, and Advanced Life and Health Insurance Operations. Each course includes several modules that cover different aspects of life insurance and financial services management. The courses can be taken online or in person at a LOMA approved training center.

The cost to obtain the FLMI designation varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether they are taken online or in person. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,500-$2,000 to complete all five courses.

In order to maintain their FLMI status, individuals must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years. This requirement ensures that professionals stay up-to-date with industry developments and best practices.

Do You Really Need a Health Insurance Agent Certificate?

Yes, if you want to become a health insurance agent, you need to obtain a health insurance agent certificate. A health insurance agent certificate is an important credential that shows you have the knowledge and skills to provide professional advice and assistance to individuals and businesses in regards to their health insurance needs. It also demonstrates your commitment to helping people understand the complexities of health insurance coverage and the available options for them.

The certificate is obtained by completing an approved training program or course. During this program, you will learn about different types of health insurance plans, how they work, and how to best advise your clients on which plan is most suitable for their needs. You will also learn about medical terminology and other important aspects of the health care industry. The program usually includes both classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience in order to prepare you for working with clients on a daily basis.

Having a health insurance agent certificate is beneficial not only for those wanting to enter this field but also for employers who are looking for qualified agents. It shows potential employers that the candidate has taken the time to become educated on all aspects of the business and can be trusted with providing accurate information when needed.

In conclusion, if you want to become a successful health insurance agent, obtaining a certified license is essential. It will show potential employers that you are knowledgeable in the field and capable of giving reliable advice when needed. Furthermore, it will give you greater credibility within the industry which can help open up more job opportunities down the line.

Related: Health Insurance Agent Resume Examples

FAQs About Health Insurance Agent Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a health insurance agent?

Answer: To become a health insurance agent, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete pre-licensing education, pass the state licensing exam, and obtain an appointment from an insurance company.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a health insurance agent?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a health insurance agent depends on the individual's state of residence and the type of license they are seeking. Generally, it can take anywhere from two weeks to three months or more before all requirements are met and certification is obtained.

3. What types of certifications are available for health insurance agents?

Answer: Depending on the state in which the individual resides, there may be different types of certifications available for health insurance agents such as Life & Health Insurance Agent Certification, Property & Casualty Agent Certification, Accident & Health Insurance Agent Certification, Long Term Care Insurance Agent Certification, and Medicare Supplement Insurance Agent Certification.

4. Do I need any special training to be a certified health insurance agent?

Answer: Yes, in order to become a certified health insurance agent you must complete pre-licensing education courses approved by your state’s department of insurance and pass the required examinations before you can obtain your license.

5. Is there any continuing education required for licensed health insurance agents?

Answer: Yes, most states require that licensed health insurance agents complete continuing education courses every year or two in order to keep their licenses up-to-date with changes in laws and regulations governing the industry.