Top 10 Healthcare Analyst Certifications

Certifications for healthcare analysts demonstrate a commitment to knowledge and professional development, which is highly valued in the job market. Healthcare analysts must have a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry and its complexities, as well as a mastery of technical skills such as data analysis, project management, and financial modeling. Certifications provide proof that an individual has the necessary qualifications to work effectively in this field. Additionally, employers often prefer candidates with certifications because they indicate that the analyst has kept up-to-date with current trends and best practices. Finally, certifications can help differentiate an analyst from others in the job market who may not have invested in their own professional development.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for healthcare analysts and explain how they can help advance an analyst's career.

What are Healthcare Analyst Certifications?

Healthcare analyst certification is a credential that demonstrates knowledge and skills in the field of health care analytics. It provides recognition of an individual’s expertise in data analysis, information technology, and healthcare finance. This certification can be beneficial for those who want to advance their career in the healthcare industry.

The certification typically requires completion of a program or coursework related to healthcare analytics. It may also require passing an exam or having relevant experience in the field. By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to staying current on the latest trends and technologies. This can help them stand out from other job applicants and increase their chances of being hired for a position in the healthcare industry.

Additionally, it can help employers identify qualified candidates with experience and knowledge related to health care analytics. With this certification, employers can ensure that they hire individuals who are capable of analyzing data and making decisions based on evidence-based research. This can help organizations make informed decisions that will benefit both patients and staff members alike.

Overall, healthcare analyst certification is a valuable credential that can help individuals stand out from other job applicants and increase their chances of being hired for a position in the healthcare industry. It can also provide employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified candidates capable of making evidence-based decisions using data analysis tools.

Pro Tip: If you are considering obtaining a healthcare analyst certification, make sure to research the different certifications available and determine which one best fits your career goals. Additionally, be sure to carefully review the course requirements for each certification and consider taking additional courses or workshops in order to better prepare yourself for the exams.

Related: What does a Healthcare Analyst do?

Top 10 Healthcare Analyst Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is a certification program offered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in healthcare quality management. The CPHQ certification is seen as a mark of distinction and a sign of professional achievement.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CPHQ certification process. To become certified, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management, performance improvement, patient safety, risk management, and data analysis. You must also have at least three years of experience in healthcare quality management or related fields.

To get started on the path to becoming certified, you will need to register with NAHQ and pay a registration fee. Once you have registered, you can access study materials and practice exams online. You can also attend review courses offered by NAHQ or other organizations to help prepare for the exam.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on your membership status with NAHQ and whether or not you choose to take review courses or purchase additional study materials. Generally speaking, the total cost ranges from $400-$800 USD.

2. Certified Medical Data Analyst (CMDA)

Certified Medical Data Analyst (CMDA) is a professional certification issued by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of medical data analysis. The certification requires that applicants possess a minimum of two years of experience in medical data analysis, as well as passing an exam.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The cost for the exam is $350. To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

In order to apply for the CMDA certification, applicants must submit an application form and fee, provide proof of their two years of experience, and submit transcripts from any relevant educational programs they may have completed. Once approved, applicants will be sent an authorization letter with instructions on how to register for the exam.

Once certified, individuals are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education activities or retaking the examination. The cost for renewal is $150.

3. Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare information and management systems. The certification is offered by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

The CPHIMS certification is designed to assess an individual’s ability to understand, analyze, design, develop, implement, manage, and evaluate healthcare information systems. To earn the CPHIMS credential, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as health data standards, privacy and security regulations, health IT infrastructure, clinical decision support systems, analytics and reporting tools, project management principles, change management strategies, system integration methods, and more.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the exam. Preparation includes studying for the exam using available resources such as HIMSS’s CPHIMS Study Guide or other recommended materials. It also involves gaining experience in the field through work or volunteer opportunities.

To get certified as a CPHIMS professional you need to complete an application form on HIMSS website and submit it along with payment of $550 USD fee. Once your application is approved you will be able to schedule your exam at one of the available testing centers.

The cost of getting certified as a CPHIMS professional is $550 USD which includes both the application fee and the cost of taking the exam.

4. Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA)

Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) is a professional certification offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the management of healthcare data and its use in the delivery of quality healthcare.

The CHDA credential requires applicants to have a minimum of two years' experience working with health data and knowledge of data analysis principles and techniques, including database design, data mining, and reporting. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as health information systems, coding systems, analytics, privacy and security standards, and data governance.

The CHDA exam takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam is $349 for AHIMA members or $449 for non-members. To apply for the CHDA credential, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of education and experience requirements. Once approved, applicants will receive their official CHDA certificate within 4-6 weeks.

5. Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)

Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in analytics. It is offered by the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS). The CAP program was created to help organizations identify and hire qualified analytics professionals.

The CAP exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and an open-ended case study section. The multiple-choice section covers topics such as data mining, predictive modeling, optimization, simulation, decision analysis, and project management. The open-ended case study section requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge of analytics to real-world problems.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CAP exam. Candidates should plan on spending at least 40 hours studying for the exam in order to be adequately prepared. During this time, it is important that candidates review all of the material covered in the exam and practice answering questions from past exams.

In order to obtain the CAP certification, candidates must pass both sections of the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of taking the CAP exam is $395 for members of INFORMS and $495 for non-members.

6. American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is a professional organization that provides certification, training, and education to medical coders. It was founded in 1988 and has since become the largest medical coding organization in the world.

To obtain AAPC certification, you must first complete an approved medical coding program or have at least two years of experience in medical coding. Once you have met these requirements, you can take the AAPC exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, ICD-10-CM codes, CPT codes, HCPCS Level II codes, and other related topics. The cost for the exam is $399 for members and $499 for non-members.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your AAPC certification. This certification is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

In addition to offering certification exams, AAPC also offers a variety of educational resources including online courses, webinars, conferences, books, newsletters and more. They also provide job placement assistance to help certified coders find employment opportunities in their field.

7. Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM)

Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM) is a professional certification offered by the Association of Clinical Data Management (ACDM). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of clinical data managers.

The CCDM certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in clinical data management, as well as a bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience. Candidates must also pass an examination that covers topics such as clinical trial design, data collection and analysis, database design and management, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance.

It typically takes about four months to prepare for the CCDM exam. Preparation may include studying ACDM materials such as handbooks, webinars, online courses, or attending live seminars. Candidates can also take practice tests to help them prepare for the exam.

To get certified as a CCDM, candidates must apply online on the ACDM website. Applicants will need to provide proof of their education and work experience before they can take the exam. The cost of taking the exam is $595 USD plus applicable taxes.

8. Health Care Compliance Association Certification Program

The Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA) is a non-profit organization that provides education and certification for health care compliance professionals. The HCCA Certification Program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the field of health care compliance.

The program consists of two levels: Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) and Certified Healthcare Compliance Professional (CHCP). To become certified at either level, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as federal regulations, state laws, ethical considerations, and risk management.

To receive the CHC certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience working in health care compliance or related fields. They must also complete an approved training program or coursework related to the field. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. It costs $450 to take the exam.

To receive the CHCP certification, applicants must have at least seven years of experience working in health care compliance or related fields. They must also complete an approved training program or coursework related to the field. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. It costs $550 to take the exam.

Once an applicant passes their respective exam, they will be awarded with their certificate from HCCA and will be able to use their credentials after their name when referring to themselves as a certified professional in healthcare compliance.

9. American Health Information Management Association Certification Program

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification Program is a comprehensive program that provides professional credentials for individuals in the health information management (HIM) field. The program offers certifications for entry-level, mid-level, and advanced practitioners in the HIM profession.

Entry-Level Certifications:

The entry-level certifications are designed to recognize individuals who have acquired the knowledge necessary to work in the HIM field. These certifications include Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS). Each of these certifications requires passing an exam and completing continuing education requirements.

Mid-Level Certifications:

The mid-level certifications are designed to recognize individuals who have acquired more advanced knowledge and skills in the HIM field. These certifications include Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) and Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). To earn these certifications, individuals must pass an exam and complete continuing education requirements.

Advanced Practitioner Certifications:

The advanced practitioner certifications are designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a higher level of expertise in the HIM field. These certifications include Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA), and Certified Documentation Improvement Practitioner (CDIP). To earn these certifications, individuals must pass an exam and complete continuing education requirements.

How Long Does it Take to Get It?

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for each certification exam depending on experience level and individual study habits. Additionally, some exams may require additional time if you need to take review courses or attend seminars prior to taking the exam.

How Do I Get It?

To get AHIMA certification, you must first apply for eligibility by submitting your application online or through mail with supporting documents such as transcripts or certificates of completion from approved educational programs. Once approved, you will be able to register for an exam date at a Pearson VUE testing center near you or online through their website. After passing your exam, you will receive your certification from AHIMA within 6 weeks after successful completion of all requirements.

How Much Does it Cost?

The cost of each certification varies depending on which one you are applying for but generally range between $200-$400 per certification plus any associated fees such as registration fees or test prep materials costs.

10. National Alliance of Healthcare Business Analysts Certification Program

The National Alliance of Healthcare Business Analysts (NAHBA) Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of healthcare business analysts. The program is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry, including the roles and responsibilities of healthcare business analysts.

The NAHBA Certification Program consists of three levels: Certified Healthcare Business Analyst (CHBA), Certified Advanced Healthcare Business Analyst (CAHBA), and Certified Master Healthcare Business Analyst (CMHBA). Each level requires successful completion of an exam as well as meeting specific education, experience, and continuing education requirements.

To become certified at any level, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with the required fees. Once approved, applicants must take and pass the corresponding exam within one year. The exams are administered online through Pearson VUE testing centers.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of NAHBA. The cost for members ranges from $175 - $375 while non-members pay between $225 - $425 per exam. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 for all applicants regardless of membership status.

Once certified, professionals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements every two years in order to remain certified at each level.

Do You Really Need a Healthcare Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of job you are looking for. If you are interested in a career as a healthcare analyst, then having a healthcare analyst certificate can be beneficial. It can demonstrate your level of knowledge and experience in the field and provide employers with evidence that you have the necessary qualifications to work in this role.

Having a healthcare analyst certificate can also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. It is an extra credential that will give employers more confidence in your ability to handle the responsibilities of a healthcare analyst. In addition, it may open up opportunities for advancement within the company or industry.

On the other hand, if you already have experience in healthcare analytics or data science, then a certificate may not be necessary. Employers will likely look at your qualifications, skills, and experience rather than whether or not you have a certificate. Furthermore, if you already have an advanced degree such as an MBA or PhD related to healthcare analytics, then having a certificate may not be necessary either.

Ultimately, whether or not you need to get a healthcare analyst certificate depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If it is something that will help further your career goals and make you competitive in the job market, then obtaining one would likely be beneficial.

Related: Healthcare Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Healthcare Analyst Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a healthcare analyst?

Answer: Generally, it is recommended that healthcare analysts have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Health Information Management, Health Care Administration or Public Health. Many employers also require additional certifications such as Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) or Certified Professional Coder (CPC).

2. What kind of job can I get with a healthcare analyst certification?

Answer: With the right qualifications and experience, you can find employment opportunities in many areas of the health care industry, including medical coding and billing, coding auditing, quality assurance and improvement, regulatory compliance, data analysis, research and analytics.

3. How long does it take to complete a healthcare analyst certification?

Answer: Depending on the program you choose and how much prior knowledge you have in the field, it could take anywhere from 3 months to 2 years to complete your certification.

4. Is there an exam required for becoming a certified analyst?

Answer: Yes. Most programs require you to pass an exam in order to receive certification as a healthcare analyst.

5. Are there any online courses available for obtaining my certification?

Answer: Yes! There are many online programs available that offer specialized courses leading up to your healthcare analyst certification.