Top 11 Healthcare Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for healthcare consultants in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise. Certifications provide employers with assurance that a consultant is qualified to provide the services they need. Certifications also give healthcare consultants an edge over their competitors, as they can prove their skills and experience to potential employers. Additionally, certifications can help healthcare consultants stay up-to-date on new trends and technologies in the industry, which can ultimately make them more valuable to employers.

This article reviews the top certifications for Healthcare Consultants and explains how they can contribute to a healthcare consultant's career, providing insight into the value of certification and its potential impact on professional development.

What are Healthcare Consultant Certifications?

Healthcare consultant certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and expertise in healthcare management and consulting. It is designed to help healthcare professionals build the skills and credentials needed to become successful consultants in the field. Healthcare consultant certification can provide many benefits, including increased confidence in one's abilities, enhanced credibility with clients, improved job prospects, and higher earning potential.

Certification also provides recognition for one's dedication to the profession and commitment to providing quality services. Certification can be obtained through various programs offered by professional organizations such as the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) or the National Association of Healthcare Consultants (NAHC). These certifications require applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of healthcare operations, financial management, data analysis, strategic planning, patient safety and other topics related to healthcare consulting.

By obtaining a healthcare consultant certification, individuals are able to demonstrate their commitment to advancing their career in this field. This certification can lead to better job opportunities with higher pay, greater recognition among peers and clients, and more opportunities for professional growth. Additionally, those who are certified may be able to access exclusive resources such as networking events or continuing education courses that would otherwise be unavailable without certification.

Pro Tip: Healthcare consultant certification can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the healthcare industry. Be sure to research the different types of certifications available, as well as the requirements for each one, before committing to any particular program. Doing so will help ensure that you select the right certification for your career goals.

Related: What does a Healthcare Consultant do?

Top 11 Healthcare Consultant Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of healthcare quality. The CPHQ certification is offered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam administered by NAHQ. The exam covers topics such as quality management, patient safety, risk management, performance improvement, data analysis and reporting, and healthcare regulations.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the CPHQ exam. To get started, applicants should review the eligibility requirements and then create a study plan based on their individual needs. It is recommended that applicants use a combination of self-study materials such as textbooks or online courses and practice exams to prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the CPHQ exam varies depending on whether you are an NAHQ member or non-member. For members, it costs $400 while non-members pay $500. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or taking preparatory courses.

Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their official CPHQ certificate from NAHQ. This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam every three years.

2. Certified Healthcare Compliance Professional (CHCP)

Certified Healthcare Compliance Professional (CHCP) is a credential offered by the Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA). It is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop, implement, and monitor effective compliance programs. This certification demonstrates an individual's commitment to ethical and compliant practices in the healthcare industry.

The CHCP certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in healthcare compliance or related fields. In addition, applicants must complete an approved course of study at an accredited institution or pass a comprehensive exam administered by HCCA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as federal regulations, corporate compliance programs, risk management, and ethics.

To obtain the CHCP certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts and proof of experience. Once all materials are received, they will be reviewed by HCCA for eligibility. If approved, applicants will receive their CHCP certificate within six weeks after completion of the exam or coursework.

The cost for obtaining the CHCP certification varies depending on whether you choose to take the exam or complete a course of study. The cost for taking the exam is $550 USD; however, if you choose to take a course of study it can range from $2,000 - $3,000 USD depending on which school you attend.

3. Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE)

Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) is a professional certification program offered by the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of medical practice executives. The CMPE designation is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management of healthcare organizations.

The CMPE program consists of two parts: a written examination and an oral examination. The written exam covers topics such as accounting, finance, human resources, legal aspects of healthcare organizations, operations management, strategic planning, and technology. The oral exam focuses on leadership skills and communication.

It typically takes about two years to complete the CMPE program. During this time, candidates must complete a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education credits each year and pass both the written and oral examinations.

To get certified as a CMPE, applicants must first submit an application to ACMPE along with their official transcripts from an accredited college or university that demonstrates their completion of at least 12 semester hours in business-related courses such as accounting or finance. They must also provide proof of at least five years’ experience working in a healthcare organization in an executive capacity.

The cost for the CMPE program varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or through your employer. For individuals, it costs $1,200 for ACMPE members and $2,000 for non-members. For employers who wish to sponsor multiple employees for certification at one time, there are discounted rates available.

4. Certified Physician Executive (CPE)

Certified Physician Executive (CPE) is a certification program offered by the American College of Physician Executives (ACPE). It is designed to recognize physicians who have demonstrated excellence in the field of healthcare management and leadership. The CPE credential is intended to demonstrate a physician's commitment to professional development and excellence in healthcare leadership.

The CPE certification requires applicants to have completed a minimum of two years of postgraduate medical training, along with at least five years of experience in a healthcare management or executive role. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by ACPE.

The process for obtaining the CPE credential typically takes about six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete an application form, provide proof of their qualifications and experience, submit letters of reference, and take the ACPE examination.

The cost for obtaining the CPE credential varies depending on factors such as whether or not you are an ACPE member. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for non-members and $300-$500 USD for members.

5. American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)

The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) is a professional organization for healthcare executives. It is dedicated to advancing the field of healthcare management by providing education, networking opportunities, and certification programs. ACHE was founded in 1968 and has over 40,000 members in more than 80 countries.

To become a member of ACHE, you must have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university and at least three years of healthcare management experience. Once you are accepted as a member, you can take advantage of the many benefits that ACHE offers, including educational programs, networking opportunities, and access to career resources.

To earn the prestigious Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) credential, you must complete an application process that includes submitting your resume and references as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as strategic management, financial management, operations management, human resources management, legal issues in healthcare administration, and ethics in healthcare administration. The exam fee is $425 for members and $525 for non-members. Once you pass the exam and meet all other requirements for certification (including continuing education credits), you will be awarded your FACHE credential.

In addition to the FACHE credential, ACHE also offers several other credentials such as Certified Healthcare Executive (CHE), Board Certified Healthcare Executive (BCHE), and Master Certified Healthcare Executive (MCHE). Each credential requires its own set of qualifications and fees associated with it.

6. American Academy of Medical Administrators (AAMA)

The American Academy of Medical Administrators (AAMA) is a professional association for medical administrators and healthcare professionals who have achieved the highest level of excellence in their field. It was founded in 1971 and has grown to become one of the most respected organizations in the medical administration field.

To become an AAMA member, you must have at least five years of experience as a medical administrator or healthcare professional, hold a degree from an accredited university, and pass the AAMA certification exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as health care law, management principles, finance and accounting, human resources, organizational behavior, information systems, quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

It typically takes two to four months to complete the application process and take the certification exam. Once you’ve passed the exam and been approved by AAMA’s board of directors, you will be awarded your certification and can use the designation “Certified Medical Administrator” (CMA).

The cost to apply for AAMA membership is $150 for individuals or $500 for groups. The cost to take the certification exam is $400 for individuals or $1,000 for groups. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with continuing education requirements after becoming certified.

7. Certified in Healthcare Risk Management (CHRMP)

Certified in Healthcare Risk Management (CHRMP) is a professional certification program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage risk in their organizations. The CHRMP certification is offered by the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management (ASHRM).

The CHRMP program consists of two parts: an online self-study course and an exam. The self-study course covers topics such as legal and ethical considerations, risk management principles, healthcare operations, and quality improvement. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the course. After completing the course, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam administered by ASHRM in order to receive the CHRMP designation.

To be eligible for the CHRMP certification, individuals must have at least three years of full-time experience in healthcare risk management or a related field. They must also hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or equivalent qualifications as determined by ASHRM.

The cost of obtaining the CHRMP certification varies depending on whether you are an ASHRM member or non-member. For members, it costs $750 USD; for non-members, it costs $1125 USD.

8. National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB)

The National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) is a professional organization that provides certification and licensure for long-term care administrators. NAB was established in 1989 to provide a unified system of certification and licensure for long-term care administrators, as well as to promote quality standards in the field of long-term care administration.

In order to become certified or licensed through NAB, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam, and complete a background check. The process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the state.

To get started, applicants must first submit an application and fee to their respective state board. Most states require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree program in health services administration or related field from an accredited college or university. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then take and pass the NAB Exam. The exam covers topics such as administrative processes, financial management, legal issues, human resources management, and organizational behavior.

Once the exam is passed and all other requirements are met (such as completing a background check), applicants will be granted either certification or licensure depending on their state’s laws. Certification typically requires renewal every two years while licensure requires renewal every three years.

The cost associated with becoming certified or licensed through NAB varies by state but typically ranges from $200-$400 for the initial application fee plus additional fees for taking the NAB Exam ($150-$200) and completing any necessary background checks ($50-$100).

9. Certified Health Information Technology Professional (CHITP)

Certified Health Information Technology Professional (CHITP) is a professional certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in the field of health information technology. The certification is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and technologies used in healthcare information systems.

To become certified as a CHITP, individuals must complete an approved training program and pass an examination administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). The exam covers topics such as healthcare data standards, privacy and security regulations, electronic health records (EHRs), and health information exchange.

The training program typically takes three to six months to complete depending on the level of expertise and prior experience with health IT. Training programs are offered by colleges and universities, professional organizations, or online providers.

The cost for the CHITP certification varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $500 - $2,000 USD.

10. American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is a professional organization for health information management professionals. AHIMA is dedicated to the advancement of health information management and its members are committed to providing quality healthcare through the use of effective health information systems. AHIMA provides education, certification, advocacy, and networking opportunities for its members.

It takes approximately two years to complete the educational requirements necessary to become certified as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). The RHIT exam is offered by AHIMA and consists of both written and practical components. To become an RHIT, you must pass both portions of the exam.

To get started with AHIMA, you must first join as a member. Membership costs vary depending on your profession and level of involvement in the association. The cost for individual membership ranges from $139 - $239 per year.

Once you have joined as a member, you can begin working towards your RHIT certification by taking courses through AHIMA or another accredited program. You will also need to complete the required clinical experience hours before sitting for the RHIT exam. Once you have passed both portions of the exam, you will be eligible for certification as an RHIT by AHIMA.

11. International Society for Quality in Health Care (ISQua)

The International Society for Quality in Health Care (ISQua) is an independent, non-governmental organization dedicated to improving the quality of health care worldwide. Founded in 1984, ISQua works to promote excellence in patient safety, clinical outcomes, and quality improvement through international accreditation and certification programs.

ISQua provides a range of services including accreditation and certification programs, educational activities, research projects, and advocacy initiatives. ISQua also offers the International Accreditation Program (IAP), which is designed to assess the quality of health care organizations around the world. The IAP includes both onsite assessments and remote assessments that are based on standards developed by ISQua.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete an IAP assessment process depending on the size and complexity of the organization being assessed. Organizations must first submit an application to ISQua before beginning the assessment process. Once accepted into the program, organizations will receive a detailed report outlining their strengths and weaknesses as well as recommendations for improvement.

The cost of an IAP assessment varies depending on the size and complexity of the organization being assessed. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 USD for a full assessment process.

Overall, ISQua provides a valuable service for health care organizations looking to improve their quality standards and patient safety practices.

Do You Really Need a Healthcare Consultant Certificate?

A healthcare consultant certificate is not a requirement for working as a healthcare consultant. However, having a certificate can help you demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare consulting. It may also give you an edge over other applicants when applying for positions.

Having a certification can show potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the industry and understand what it takes to be successful in this role. Additionally, if you are looking to specialize in a certain area of healthcare consulting, such as risk management or quality assurance, having a certification can demonstrate your commitment and dedication to the specific field.

Moreover, if you are hoping to expand your career opportunities, having a healthcare consultant certificate can provide credibility and recognition from others within the industry. Having an official credential may open up new doors for networking and employment opportunities that would otherwise not be available without one.

Overall, although having a healthcare consultant certificate is not essential for working in this field, it can be beneficial in many ways. If you are looking to specialize or expand your career options, obtaining a certification could prove to be helpful.

Related: Healthcare Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Healthcare Consultant Certifications

1. What is a Healthcare Consultant Certification?

Answer: A healthcare consultant certification is an official recognition of an individual's expertise in the field of healthcare consulting. It demonstrates knowledge in areas such as health policy, legal and regulatory compliance, financial management, and project management.

2. How do I become certified as a Healthcare Consultant?

Answer: To become certified as a healthcare consultant, you must first meet the requirements of the certifying organization, which typically include having a bachelor's degree or higher in a related field and completing specific coursework. You may also need to pass an examination or complete other requirements.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Healthcare Consultant?

Answer: Becoming certified as a healthcare consultant offers numerous benefits, including improved job prospects and salary increases; increased credibility with clients; greater respect from colleagues; and enhanced professional development opportunities.

4. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Healthcare Consultant Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations charge fees for application materials, testing fees, and annual membership dues. Fees vary depending on the certifying organization and type of certification sought.

5. How often do I need to renew my Healthcare Consultant Certification?

Answer: Renewal requirements vary by certifying organization but typically involve taking continuing education courses or passing additional examinations every few years to maintain your certification status.