Top 10 Hospital Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for hospital administrators in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. They show potential employers that the administrator has taken the time to advance their skills, become more knowledgeable about healthcare administration, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. Additionally, certifications can give an administrator a competitive edge over other applicants who do not have them. Certifications also often come with access to continuing education courses and professional development opportunities, which can help an administrator stay abreast of industry changes. Lastly, certifications may be required for certain types of positions or promotions within a hospital setting.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Hospital Administrators and explain how they can help further a hospital administrator's career.

What are Hospital Administrator Certifications?

Hospital Administrator Certification is an official recognition of competency in the field of hospital administration. It is a voluntary credential issued by a number of professional organizations to individuals who demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform key tasks related to hospital management. Those who obtain this certification are recognized as having advanced expertise in healthcare leadership.

This certification can be extremely beneficial for those seeking to advance their career in hospital administration. Through obtaining certification, professionals are able to demonstrate to current and prospective employers that they have the skills needed for this specialized role. It also provides a competitive edge when applying for positions within the industry. Additionally, it may qualify individuals for higher salaries and greater job opportunities. Furthermore, certified administrators may have access to exclusive networking opportunities, such as attending conferences or seminars hosted by their professional organization. These events provide invaluable insights into current trends and best practices in the healthcare industry.

Overall, Hospital Administrator Certification serves as an indicator of expertise in the field and offers numerous benefits to those pursuing a career in this area.

Pro Tip: When pursuing hospital administrator certification, research the different certifications available and select one that aligns with your current job role or the one you plan to pursue. Be sure to take advantage of any online courses or webinars offered by the certifying organization to stay up to date on best practices in healthcare administration.

Related: What does a Hospital Administrator do?

Top 10 Hospital Administrator Certifications

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

1. Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM)

Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Hospital Association (AHA). It is designed to recognize those healthcare facility professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in managing healthcare facilities. The CHFM certification is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed the AHA's comprehensive examination and met all of the eligibility requirements.

The CHFM certification process takes approximately six months to complete. Candidates must first submit an application along with proof of their educational background and work experience. Once approved, candidates must then register for and pass the AHA's comprehensive exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive their CHFM certification.

The cost to obtain a CHFM certification varies depending on the type of membership you select when registering for the exam. For non-members, the fee is $595; for members, it is $495; and for students, it is $395. Additionally, there are additional fees associated with re-taking the exam if necessary.

2. Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE)

Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals who manage medical practices. The CMPE certification is offered by the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE), a subsidiary of the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA).

The CMPE certification process consists of three steps: education, experience and examination. Candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration or a related field, plus five years of experience in medical practice management. They must also pass an examination that covers topics such as financial management, operations, human resources and information technology.

To get certified, candidates must submit an application to ACMPE along with proof of their educational background and work experience. Once approved, they will be given access to the online study materials and can register for the exam. The exam fee is $695 for members of MGMA or $795 for non-members. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and results are typically available within two weeks after taking it.

Once certified, CMPEs must maintain their credential by completing continuing education credits every two years to demonstrate their commitment to staying current on best practices in medical practice management.

3. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

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

To obtain the CPHQ, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam administered by NAHQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient safety, quality improvement, data analysis, and organizational management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and is offered at various locations throughout the United States.

In order to qualify for the CPHQ exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a minimum of two years of full-time experience in a healthcare quality role or equivalent education/training; completion of an approved educational program; and current membership in NAHQ.

The cost to take the CPHQ exam is $325 for NAHQ members and $425 for non-members. Additional fees may apply if an applicant chooses to retake the test or register late.

4. Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM)

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

The CPHRM certification requires applicants to have a minimum of two years of experience in healthcare risk management, as well as an undergraduate degree or equivalent. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as patient safety and quality improvement, legal and regulatory compliance, financial management, and risk assessment and mitigation.

The CPHRM certification process takes approximately 6-9 months from start to finish. To get started, candidates must submit an application form along with a fee of $400 USD. Once approved, candidates can begin studying for the exam using ASHRM’s study materials. After passing the exam, candidates must complete a portfolio review before being awarded their CPHRM certification.

The cost of obtaining the CPHRM certification varies depending on whether you are an ASHRM member or non-member. For members, the total cost is $1,100 USD ($400 USD application fee + $700 USD exam fee). For non-members, the total cost is $1,500 USD ($400 USD application fee + $1,100 USD exam fee).

5. Certified Healthcare Administrator (CHA)

Certified Healthcare Administrator (CHA) is a professional certification for healthcare administrators. It is awarded by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). The CHA credential recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge and experience in the field of healthcare administration.

The CHA credential is earned through a rigorous process that includes passing an examination, completing continuing education requirements, and demonstrating professional achievement. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in healthcare administration or management, or three years of experience with a master's degree in healthcare administration or management.

The CHA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost to take the exam is $450 for ACHE members and $550 for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants must complete 30 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain their certification status.

6. Certified Hospital Administrator (CHA)

Certified Hospital Administrator (CHA) is a professional certification offered by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of hospital administration. The CHA credential demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence in hospital management and leadership.

To obtain the CHA credential, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of full-time healthcare management experience within the past five years and being affiliated with an ACHE-accredited institution or organization. Applicants must also submit a completed application form, provide proof of their education and work experience, pay the required fee, and pass an examination.

The cost for obtaining the CHA credential varies depending on whether you are an ACHE member or nonmember. For members, it costs $350 for the application fee plus $450 for the exam fee; for nonmembers, it costs $500 for the application fee plus $600 for the exam fee. The entire process typically takes about four months from start to finish.

7. American College of Healthcare Executives Fellowship Program

The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Fellowship Program is a professional development program designed to recognize healthcare executives who have made significant contributions to the field. The program is open to all healthcare executives, including physicians, nurses, administrators and other professionals in the field.

The ACHE Fellowship Program is a two-year process that culminates in the awarding of the Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) designation. To be eligible for consideration, an individual must meet certain criteria, including having at least five years of experience in healthcare administration and current ACHE membership.

To receive the FACHE designation, applicants must complete a series of requirements that include: attending an ACHE-sponsored educational program; submitting a written application; participating in an oral interview with members of the Board of Governors; and being recommended by the Board for approval by ACHE’s Congress on Healthcare Leadership.

The cost for participation in the ACHE Fellowship Program varies depending on whether or not you are already an ACHE member. For non-members, there is an initial fee of $150 plus annual dues. For members, there is only an annual fee of $75 to maintain your membership status.

8. National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards Certification

The National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) Certification is a professional certification for long-term care administrators. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of individuals who have met the highest standards of practice in the field of long-term care administration. The NAB Certification is awarded to those who demonstrate mastery of core competencies in long-term care administration, including management, finance, operations, marketing, and human resources.

To obtain NAB Certification, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having a degree from an accredited college or university with a major in health services administration or related field; at least two years of full-time experience as a licensed nursing home administrator; and successful completion of the NAB's comprehensive examination. Once these requirements are met, applicants can submit their application to take the exam.

The NAB Certification exam consists of multiple choice questions that cover topics such as long-term care regulations and laws, management principles and practices, financial operations, marketing strategies, human resources management, quality assurance/improvement activities, and risk management/safety issues. The exam typically takes three hours to complete and costs $295 for members of NAB or $395 for non-members.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam they will receive their official NAB Certification certificate within four weeks. This certificate is valid for five years from the date it was issued and must be renewed every five years by taking continuing education courses in order to maintain certification status.

9. American Organization of Nurse Executives Certification

The American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) Certification is a certification program that recognizes nurses who have achieved advanced levels of expertise in nursing executive practice. It is designed to recognize nurse leaders who have demonstrated excellence in their profession and are committed to lifelong learning and professional development.

To become certified, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements and complete the AONE Certification Program. The program consists of three parts: an online application, a written exam, and an oral exam. Applicants must have a minimum of five years of experience as a nurse executive or in a related field such as healthcare administration or health policy.

The written exam covers topics such as leadership, finance, strategic planning, and quality improvement. The oral exam focuses on the applicant’s ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in nursing executive practice.

The entire process takes approximately six months to complete from start to finish. The cost for the certification program is $1,200 plus applicable taxes and fees.

10. American College of Health Care Administrators Certification

The American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) is a professional organization dedicated to the development and advancement of health care administrators. The ACHCA offers the Certified Nursing Home Administrator (CNHA) certification, which is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competency in long-term care administration.

To obtain the CNHA certification, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university, as well as two years of full-time administrative experience in a nursing home setting. Additionally, applicants must pass an examination administered by the ACHCA.

The entire process typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the individual's availability and preparation for the exam. To apply for the CNHA certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of experience. The fee for applying is $200 USD plus an additional $100 USD if you are taking the exam outside of North America.

Do You Really Need a Hospital Administrator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career aspirations and goals. For those looking to pursue a career in hospital administration, obtaining a certificate is highly recommended. This certification will demonstrate expertise and knowledge in the field, as well as provide employers with evidence that an individual has taken the time to learn the necessary skills and concepts of hospital administration.

A hospital administrator certificate can open up many doors for those interested in this type of job. It will provide an individual with the opportunity to gain access to higher-level positions, such as those involving budgeting, finance, or strategic planning. Additionally, having a certificate often indicates that an individual is organized and knowledgeable when it comes to health care operations. With a certificate, individuals are more likely to be seen as qualified for higher-level positions in hospitals or other health care organizations.

For those who are not seeking a career in hospital administration but still want to show their commitment to learning about the field, obtaining a hospital administrator certificate is still beneficial. This certification can provide individuals with an edge over competitors who may not have taken the time to obtain such qualifications. It also provides individuals with proof of their dedication towards gaining greater knowledge related to healthcare operations and management.

In conclusion, whether someone needs a hospital administrator certificate largely depends on their personal goals and desired career path within healthcare operations management. However, having this certification can be beneficial regardless of one's aspirations since it demonstrates commitment and knowledge in the field of healthcare operations management.

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FAQs About Hospital Administrator Certifications

1. What is a hospital administrator certification?

A hospital administrator certification is a credential that demonstrates professional competency in the management and leadership of hospitals, health systems, and other healthcare organizations.

2. What are the requirements to become certified as a hospital administrator?

The requirements vary by certification body, but typically include a combination of educational attainment, professional experience, continuing education credits, and successful completion of an exam.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a hospital administrator?

By obtaining certification as a hospital administrator, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to their profession while also increasing their credibility and marketability in the field. It may also lead to career advancement opportunities or higher salaries.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a hospital administrator?

The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on individual circumstances such as how much prior experience one has in the field, how quickly they complete any required courses or exams, and whether there are any prerequisites for taking the exam that must be fulfilled first. Generally speaking though, it can take anywhere from several months to over two years to obtain certification.

5. How much does it cost to become certified as a hospital administrator?

The cost for obtaining certification varies depending on which organization you choose and what materials or courses you need in order to prepare for the exam. Generally speaking though, you should expect to pay anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for all associated costs.