Top 10 Medical Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for medical consultants because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the field. Certifications provide employers with proof that a consultant has the specific skills and qualifications needed to do the job. They also provide assurance to clients that a consultant is knowledgeable and experienced in the areas of medical consulting they need assistance with. In addition, certifications can give medical consultants an edge over their competition when it comes to job opportunities, as employers often prefer certified applicants to those without certification. Finally, certifications can open up new career paths or opportunities that might not have been available otherwise.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Medical Consultants and explains how they can help to advance a medical consultant's career.

What are Medical Consultant Certifications?

Medical consultant certification is a type of certification that demonstrates a person's specialized knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare consulting. The certification is typically earned through completing an accredited program or coursework, and passing an exam.

Having a medical consultant certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers, having someone with this certification on staff can help them stay up to date with the latest trends in healthcare consulting, as well as provide valuable insight into their business practices and strategies. Additionally, having an experienced consultant with this certification can give employers more confidence when making decisions regarding healthcare related issues.

For employees, having a medical consultant certification can open up more job opportunities and increase their earning potential. It also provides them with an opportunity to specialize in various areas of healthcare consulting such as finance, operations, data management and analysis, strategic planning and more. Moreover, it provides them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their clients' needs and how best to meet those needs. Finally, having this certification can give employees the credibility they need to stand out from other applicants in the competitive job market.

Pro Tip: When considering a medical consultant certification, make sure to research the requirements for certification in your field and verify that the organization providing the certification is accredited. Additionally, be sure to ask if there are any continuing education requirements associated with maintaining your certification.

Related: What does a Medical Consultant do?

Top 10 Medical Consultant Certifications

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

1. Certified Physician Executive (CPE)

A Certified Physician Executive (CPE) is a physician who has achieved a high level of professional excellence in the field of healthcare management and leadership. The CPE designation is awarded by the American Association for Physician Leadership (AAPL), which is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing physician leadership.

To become a CPE, physicians must meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate mastery of core competencies in healthcare administration, finance, operations, quality improvement, and organizational behavior. In addition, they must pass an examination administered by the AAPL.

The process of becoming a CPE typically takes between 6 and 12 months. To begin the process, physicians must submit an application to the AAPL along with documentation that they meet all eligibility requirements. Once accepted into the program, physicians must complete a series of online courses and assessments to demonstrate their mastery of core competencies. After completing these courses and assessments successfully, physicians may take the CPE exam.

The cost for becoming certified as a CPE varies depending on the type of membership you have with the AAPL. For non-members, it costs $1,500 for full certification or $750 for provisional certification; members pay $1,000 for full certification or $500 for provisional certification.

2. Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE)

Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) is a certification program offered by the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in medical practice management. The CMPE designation is awarded to those who have achieved a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of medical practice management.

The CMPE program requires applicants to complete an online application, pass an exam, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in medical practice management. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as finance, operations, technology, human resources, marketing, and quality improvement. To be eligible for the CMPE certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience working in medical practice management.

The CMPE program typically takes about six months to complete. Applicants must first submit their application and take the exam within six months of submitting their application. Once they pass the exam, they must then submit their portfolio within six months of passing the exam.

The cost for the CMPE program varies depending on whether you are an ACMPE member or not. For non-members, the cost is $1,295; for members it is $995. In addition to this fee, there may also be additional costs associated with taking the exam and submitting your portfolio.

3. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is a professional certification program administered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). The CPHQ certification recognizes healthcare professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare quality. This certification is designed to demonstrate that a healthcare professional has met a set of standards for practice and competency in the field of healthcare quality.

To obtain the CPHQ certification, an individual must pass an exam administered by NAHQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics related to healthcare quality, such as patient safety, data collection and analysis, performance improvement, and regulatory compliance. The exam typically takes two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the CPHQ exam, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in a healthcare quality role within the past five years; or two years of full-time experience in a healthcare quality role within the past five years plus completion of an approved continuing education program; or completion of an approved degree program in health care quality or related field plus one year of full-time experience in a healthcare quality role within the past five years.

The cost to apply for the CPHQ certification is $350 for NAHQ members and $450 for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 for NAHQ members and $75 for non-members to maintain active status as a certified professional.

4. Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP)

The Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) is a credential offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in clinical research.

To become certified as a CCRP, an individual must meet certain criteria, including at least two years of full-time experience in clinical research or a related field, and successful completion of an ACRP-administered certification exam. Additionally, applicants must adhere to the ACRP Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CCRP certification process. The first step is to review the eligibility requirements for the program and register for the exam. After registering for the exam, applicants will need to study for the test using ACRP’s online resources or other materials available through third-party providers. Once ready, applicants can schedule their exam with Pearson VUE.

The cost of becoming certified as a CCRP varies depending on whether you are already an ACRP member or not. For non-members, it costs $575 USD to take the exam; for members, it costs $425 USD. There may also be additional fees associated with preparing for and taking the exam.

5. American Board of Medical Specialties Certification

The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is a non-profit, independent organization that certifies physicians in the United States who have completed specialized medical training and education. The ABMS provides certification for 24 medical specialties, including anesthesiology, dermatology, emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, neurology, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry and surgery.

To become certified by the ABMS, a physician must complete a residency program in their chosen specialty and pass an examination administered by one of the 24 Member Boards of the ABMS. Once certified through an ABMS Member Board, physicians can maintain their certification by participating in continuing medical education activities and completing periodic recertification examinations.

The length of time it takes to become certified by the ABMS varies depending on the specialty chosen. Generally speaking, it takes three to seven years to complete a residency program and pass an examination administered by one of the 24 Member Boards.

In order to get certified by the ABMS, physicians must first complete a residency program in their chosen specialty. After completing their residency program they must then take and pass an examination administered by one of the 24 Member Boards of the ABMS. Physicians may also need to provide additional documentation such as letters of recommendation or proof of professional liability insurance coverage in order to be approved for certification.

The cost of becoming certified through the ABMS varies depending on several factors including which specialty is chosen and which board administers the exam. Generally speaking, fees range from $400-$1,500 for initial certification exams with additional fees for recertification exams every 10 years thereafter.

6. American College of Healthcare Executives Certification

The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize healthcare executives who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and commitment necessary to excel in their profession. This certification is available to healthcare executives who have achieved a minimum of five years of experience in the field and have met certain educational criteria.

It typically takes about three months for an individual to complete the application process for ACHE Certification. To begin, individuals must submit an online application with information about their educational background, professional experience, and other relevant qualifications. After submitting the application, individuals will be asked to provide documentation of their educational qualifications as well as references from colleagues or supervisors who can attest to their professional abilities. Once these materials are reviewed and approved by ACHE, individuals will be invited to take an online assessment that tests their knowledge of healthcare administration principles and practices.

Once applicants pass the assessment with a score of at least 70%, they will be awarded ACHE Certification. The cost for ACHE Certification is $425 for members of ACHE and $525 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of processing applications, administering assessments, and providing certification materials such as a certificate and lapel pin.

7. Certified Healthcare Consultant (CHC)

A Certified Healthcare Consultant (CHC) is a professional designation for individuals who have specialized knowledge and experience in the healthcare industry. The CHC credential is awarded by the National Association of Healthcare Consultants (NAHC), a professional organization for healthcare consultants and advisors.

The CHC credential requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as healthcare regulations, legal issues, financial management, and patient care. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of experience in the healthcare field or related field.

The exam typically takes approximately three hours to complete, and the cost of taking the exam is $295. To become certified, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume, proof of education and experience, and payment for the exam fee. Once approved by NAHC, applicants will be sent an invitation to take the exam.

Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CHC certification within four weeks. The cost of becoming certified includes the $295 fee for taking the exam as well as any additional fees associated with submitting an application or renewing certification every five years.

8. Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage risk in a healthcare setting. The CPHRM certification is offered by the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management (ASHRM).

The CPHRM certification process involves passing an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as patient safety, legal issues, risk management principles, and quality improvement. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge of healthcare regulations and standards, as well as their ability to apply risk management techniques. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have at least two years of experience in healthcare risk management or a related field.

The CPHRM exam is offered twice a year, in April and October. Candidates can register for the exam online through ASHRM's website or by mail. The cost of the exam is $575 for ASHRM members and $675 for non-members.

Once a candidate has successfully passed the CPHRM exam, they will receive their official certificate from ASHRM within six weeks. The certificate is valid for five years from the date it was issued and must be renewed every five years to maintain its validity.

9. American Health Information Management Association Certification

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of health information management. This certification is designed to provide recognition for individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in their profession, and it is an essential credential for those seeking advancement in the healthcare industry.

It typically takes about four to six months to complete the AHIMA Certification process. The first step is to apply for the exam. After submitting your application, you will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam and pay the required fee. Once you have registered and paid, you will be able to access study materials and practice tests online.

To prepare for the test, you should review all of the material provided by AHIMA and complete any practice tests available. You may also want to take additional courses or attend seminars related to health information management if you feel like you need additional preparation. Once you feel ready, you can schedule your exam at an approved testing center near you.

The cost of AHIMA Certification varies depending on which type of certification you are applying for, but generally ranges from $200 - $450 USD. Additionally, there may be fees associated with registering for and taking the exam itself as well as any additional courses or seminars that may be required prior to taking the exam.

Once you have successfully completed your examination and passed with a score of 70% or higher, your official AHIMA Certification will be mailed directly to your home address within 6-8 weeks after completion of your exam.

10. Certified Medical Manager (CMM)

Certified Medical Manager (CMM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the management of medical practices. The CMM designation is awarded by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), which is an organization that promotes excellence in healthcare coding and billing.

The CMM program consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on practicum. The written exam covers topics such as medical practice operations, financial management, human resources, information systems, legal/regulatory issues, and quality improvement. The practicum focuses on applying the knowledge gained from the written exam to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the CMM program depending on individual study habits and dedication to completing the requirements. To get certified, applicants must pass both parts of the program with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the CMM program varies depending on the type of membership you have with AAPC. For non-members, it costs $499 for both parts of the program; for members, it costs $399; and for student members, it costs $299.

Do You Really Need a Medical Consultant Certificate?

If you are looking to become a medical consultant and work in the healthcare industry, then the answer is yes – you do need a medical consultant certificate. A medical consultant certificate is an important credential that demonstrates your level of understanding of the medical field and your ability to provide expert advice on health-related issues. It also serves as proof that you have met certain educational requirements and have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality advice and guidance.

Having a medical consultant certificate can open up many doors for you in terms of job opportunities, as it is often seen as an indication of your expertise and commitment to the field. Many employers may require applicants to have this qualification in order to be considered for positions within their organization. Additionally, having a certification can make you more competitive when applying for jobs or promotions.

In addition, having a medical consultant certificate can help you build credibility with patients, clients, and colleagues alike. By displaying your certification, you are letting people know that you take your job seriously and are knowledgeable about the subject matter at hand. This can help build trust between yourself and those whom you serve, which can lead to better relationships overall.

Overall, having a medical consultant certificate is an essential credential for anyone looking to work in the healthcare industry or provide professional advice on health-related matters. It not only demonstrates your knowledge and expertise but also serves as proof that you have met certain educational requirements necessary to be successful in this field. Furthermore, it can make you more competitive when applying for jobs or promotions while helping build credibility with patients, clients, and colleagues alike.

Related: Medical Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Medical Consultant Certifications

Q1. What is a medical consultant certification?

A1. A medical consultant certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's expertise in providing medical advice to healthcare organizations, physicians, and other healthcare professionals. The certification typically requires the completion of a series of courses, examinations, and clinical experience requirements.

Q2. What types of certifications are available?

A2. There are several types of medical consultant certifications available, including Certified Medical Consultant (CMC), Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA), and Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM).

Q3. How long does it take to become certified?

A3. It typically takes between one to two years for individuals to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification depending on their educational background and experience level.

Q4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining certification?

A4. Yes, most certifying bodies require their certified members to complete a certain number of hours of continuing education each year in order to maintain their credentials.

Q5. What kind of job opportunities are available with a medical consultant certification?

A5. Medical consultants can find employment opportunities in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, physician offices, insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, universities, or government agencies. They may also work independently as independent contractors or consultants providing services such as auditing and quality improvement plans or developing practice management systems for healthcare organizations.