Top 10 Medical Social Worker Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a medical social worker’s job market success. Certifications demonstrate to potential employers that the social worker has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective services to clients. Certification also helps employers differentiate between qualified candidates and those who may not possess the same level of expertise. Furthermore, certifications can give medical social workers a competitive edge when applying for jobs or promotions, as they signify a higher level of competency and dedication than their non-certified counterparts. Finally, certifications demonstrate commitment to continued learning and professional development, which is highly valued in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Medical Social Workers and explain how they can help enhance a medical social worker's career.

What are Medical Social Worker Certifications?

Medical social worker certification is a professional credential which recognizes an individual's demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of medical social work. Medical social workers provide support to individuals, families, and communities affected by illness or injury by identifying their needs, developing plans to meet those needs, and advocating for appropriate services. Certification demonstrates that a medical social worker has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide these services effectively.

The certification process includes passing an exam and having two years of supervised clinical practice in medical social work. This ensures that certified medical social workers have the necessary skills to provide quality care to their clients. Certification also helps employers identify qualified professionals who can meet the specific needs of their organization or community.

Certified medical social workers are able to help clients and communities access resources such as health insurance, mental health counseling, and financial assistance programs. They can also provide emotional support to patients and families during times of crisis or illness. By providing these services, certified medical social workers can improve quality of life for those affected by illness or injury.

Pro Tip: Before you pursue medical social worker certification, research the different types of certifications available and make sure the one you select is recognized by your state's Board of Social Work. Additionally, take advantage of continuing education opportunities to stay up-to-date on best practices and ensure your certification remains current.

Related: What does a Medical Social Worker do?

Top 10 Medical Social Worker Certifications

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

1. Certified Social Worker in Health Care (CSW-HC)

Certified Social Worker in Health Care (CSW-HC) is a professional certification that recognizes the skills and knowledge of social workers who specialize in health care. This certification is offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). It is designed to identify social workers who have extensive experience and knowledge in the field of health care.

To become certified as a CSW-HC, applicants must have a master’s degree in social work from an accredited university, be licensed or certified as a social worker in their state, and have at least two years of post-master’s experience working with clients in the health care setting. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, ethical practice, assessment and diagnosis, treatment planning, case management, and documentation.

The process to become certified can take anywhere from three months to one year depending on how quickly you complete all the requirements. To get started, you will need to submit an application along with your supporting documents such as transcripts, licensure or certification information, and proof of employment. Once your application has been approved by NASW, you will be required to register for and take the exam. After passing the exam you will receive your CSW-HC certificate.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on where you live but generally ranges from $300-$500 which includes fees for registration, examination preparation materials, and other related costs.

2. Certified Clinical Medical Social Worker (CCMSW)

Certified Clinical Medical Social Worker (CCMSW) is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). This certification is designed to recognize social workers who demonstrate advanced knowledge, skills, and experience in providing clinical services to individuals, families, and communities. The CCMSW credential is intended to recognize those social workers who have achieved a level of expertise in the field of medical social work.

To become certified as a Certified Clinical Medical Social Worker (CCMSW), applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold an active license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or equivalent in their state or jurisdiction
• Have at least two years of post-master’s supervised clinical experience in medical social work
• Complete at least 45 hours of continuing education related to medical social work within the past five years
• Pass an examination administered by NASW that tests knowledge and skills related to medical social work practice.

The application process for becoming certified as a CCMSW typically takes about three months from start to finish. Applicants must complete an online application form, pay all required fees, submit official transcripts from their master’s degree program, provide proof of licensure, and submit documentation verifying their post-master’s supervised clinical experience. Once all documents have been received and reviewed by NASW staff, applicants will be notified if they are eligible to take the examination.

The cost for applying for CCMSW certification varies depending on whether you are an NASW member or non-member. For members, the total cost is $255; for non-members it is $355. This fee includes the cost of taking the exam ($150), processing fees ($50), and application fees ($55/$155).

3. Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker (ACHP-SW)

Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker (ACHP-SW) is a certification offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). This certification recognizes social workers who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skill, and experience in providing hospice and palliative care services. To become certified, an individual must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a master’s degree in social work from an accredited college or university;

2. Have at least two years of post-master’s experience in hospice and palliative care;

3. Pass the ACHP-SW examination;

4. Maintain continuing education credits as required by NASW; and

5. Abide by the NASW Code of Ethics.

It typically takes about one year to complete all of the requirements for ACHP-SW certification. The first step is to apply for the certification through NASW's online portal. Once your application has been approved, you will need to register for and take the ACHP-SW exam. After passing the exam, you will need to submit proof of your post-master's experience in hospice and palliative care as well as documentation of continuing education credits earned over the past two years. Once all requirements are met, you will be issued your certificate from NASW verifying that you are an Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker (ACHP-SW).

The cost to become certified varies depending on factors such as location, but typically ranges between $450-$600 USD including application fees, exam fees, and any additional costs associated with obtaining necessary documentation or completing continuing education courses.

4. Advanced Certified Oncology Social Worker (ACOSW)

Advanced Certified Oncology Social Worker (ACOSW) is a certification program offered by the Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW). The ACOSW certification is designed to recognize social workers who demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in oncology social work. It is intended to provide recognition for those who have achieved a level of excellence in their practice and to encourage ongoing professional development.

To become an ACOSW, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including:

• Having a master’s degree or higher in social work from a CSWE-accredited program;
• Having at least two years of post-master’s experience in oncology social work;
• Being licensed as a clinical social worker or having equivalent credentials; and
• Having completed at least 30 hours of continuing education related to oncology social work within the past three years.

It takes approximately four months to complete the ACOSW application process. Applicants must submit an application with all required documentation, including transcripts, proof of licensure/certification, and verification of continuing education hours. Once the application is approved, applicants must then pass an online examination that covers topics such as psychosocial assessment, treatment planning, ethical issues, communication strategies, and end-of-life care.

The cost for the ACOSW certification process varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with obtaining transcripts or other necessary documents. Additionally, there is a $100 fee for taking the online exam.

5. Certified Case Management Specialist (CCMS)

A Certified Case Management Specialist (CCMS) is a professional who specializes in providing case management services to individuals, families, and communities. Case management is a process of assessing, planning, implementing, coordinating, monitoring, and evaluating the options and services required to meet an individual's health and human service needs.

The CCMS certification is offered through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). To become certified, you must have a master’s degree in social work or related field from an accredited college or university; have at least two years of post-master’s experience as a case manager; and pass the NASW’s CCMS exam.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as assessment and diagnosis; treatment planning; coordination of services; advocacy for clients; legal and ethical issues; cultural competence; and professional development. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the CCMS certification exam is $450 for NASW members and $600 for non-members. It typically takes about three weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

6. Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP)

Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Peer Supporters (IAPS). The CPRP credential is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge and expertise in the field of psychiatric rehabilitation. This certification is intended to provide validation for practitioners who are committed to providing quality, evidence-based services to individuals with mental health conditions.

The CPRP certification requires applicants to meet certain educational and experience requirements before they can take the exam. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field; two years of full-time paid experience working with individuals with mental illness; and completion of an approved psychiatric rehabilitation training program. In addition, applicants must have completed at least 40 hours of continuing education in psychiatric rehabilitation within the past three years.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for the exam is $300 USD plus applicable taxes and fees. Once the exam is successfully completed, applicants will receive their CPRP certification from IAPS.

The CPRP credential is valid for five years from the date it was issued, after which time it must be renewed by completing 40 hours of continuing education credits in psychiatric rehabilitation or taking the recertification examination.

7. Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM)

A Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM) is a professional who assists older adults and their families in navigating the complexities of aging. They specialize in assessing, planning, coordinating, monitoring, and advocating for appropriate care options for elderly clients. CGCMs are educated and experienced in gerontology and have expertise in areas such as long-term care planning, home health care services, legal matters related to aging, financial issues, housing options, family dynamics, mental health concerns, and end-of-life decisions.

To become a Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM), individuals must complete an accredited training program that includes at least 125 hours of coursework related to geriatric care management. The training program must be approved by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM). After completing the training program and passing a certification exam administered by NAPGCM, individuals can apply for certification from NAPGCM.

The cost of becoming a Certified Geriatric Care Manager varies depending on the type of training program chosen and any associated fees. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the required coursework and become certified.

8. Certificate of Clinical Competence in Medical Social Work (CCC-MSW)

The Certificate of Clinical Competence in Medical Social Work (CCC-MSW) is a professional credential awarded by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work (ABECSW). The CCC-MSW is a voluntary certification program that recognizes advanced knowledge and expertise in medical social work practice. It is designed to promote professional development, enhance clinical practice, and increase public recognition of medical social workers.

To obtain the CCC-MSW, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of post-master’s degree experience in medical social work, completing a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice within the past five years, and passing an examination administered by ABECSW.

The process for obtaining the CCC-MSW typically takes about six months to complete. Applicants must first submit an application and supporting documents to ABECSW. Once approved, applicants then have three months to take the exam. After passing the exam, applicants are then certified as CCC-MSWs.

The cost for obtaining the CCC-MSW varies depending on whether or not you are a member of ABECSW. For nonmembers, it costs $450 to apply and $200 to take the exam; for members, it costs $250 to apply and $100 to take the exam.

9. Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD-CSW)

Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD-CSW) is a professional certification offered by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work (ABE). It is the highest level of clinical social work certification available and requires a minimum of five years of post-master's experience, as well as passing an examination.

The BCD-CSW certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To become certified, applicants must submit an application to ABE, including proof of post-master's experience, transcripts from their master's program, and three letters of recommendation from supervisors or colleagues. Once approved for candidacy, applicants must then pass the BCD-CSW exam, which consists of both a written and oral component.

The cost for applying for BCD-CSW certification varies depending on the applicant's state of residence. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 to apply for the certification, plus additional fees for taking the exam. The cost may also vary depending on whether or not applicants are members of ABE or other professional organizations.

Once certified, BCD-CSWs must renew their credentials every two years by completing continuing education activities and paying renewal fees.

10. National Association of Social Workers Certification in Clinical Practice (NASW-CP).

The National Association of Social Workers Certification in Clinical Practice (NASW-CP) is a professional credential that recognizes social workers who have met the highest standards in clinical practice. It is an important distinction for those working in the field of mental health and other clinical settings.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, as well as pass a national exam. The process typically takes about two years to complete and involves completing coursework, supervised clinical hours, and passing the exam. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the state or jurisdiction where you are applying, but generally ranges from $200-$400.

In order to be eligible for certification, applicants must hold at least a master’s degree in social work from an accredited university and have completed at least two years of post-master’s supervised clinical experience in a mental health setting. Applicants must also be members of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

Once all eligibility requirements have been met, applicants can apply for certification by submitting an application online through NASW’s website. After submitting the application, applicants will need to take and pass the NASW-CP exam which consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as diagnosis, treatment planning, ethical decision making, and more. Once applicants have passed the exam they will receive their certification within four weeks.

The NASW-CP certification is valid for five years before renewal is required. Renewal requires completion of continuing education credits related to clinical practice as well as re-taking and passing the NASW-CP exam every five years.

Do You Really Need a Medical Social Worker Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their goals. A medical social worker certificate is not necessary for all professionals in the field, but it can be beneficial in certain situations.

For those looking to specialize in medical social work or pursue higher-level positions, a certificate may be the best option. This certification can provide specialized knowledge and training that might otherwise take years of experience to acquire. It can also be a great way to demonstrate expertise and commitment to the profession, which can help open doors for career advancement.

For those who are already working in a related field, such as mental health counseling or case management, obtaining a medical social worker certificate could provide an additional layer of knowledge and skills that may prove invaluable when dealing with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This type of training could help them better understand and respond to their clients’ needs in ways that are both compassionate and effective.

In addition, some employers may require applicants for certain positions to have a medical social worker certificate. Therefore, if one’s goal is to work in certain organizations or government agencies, obtaining this certification could be essential for success.

Ultimately, whether or not one needs a medical social worker certificate will depend on their own unique circumstances and goals. Those who wish to specialize in medical social work or pursue higher-level positions should strongly consider obtaining a certificate, while others may find it more beneficial to focus on developing their existing skillsets through additional education or experience instead.

Related: Medical Social Worker Resume Examples

FAQs About Medical Social Worker Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Medical Social Worker?

Answer: In order to become a Medical Social Worker, you must have a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited university and be licensed in the state where you plan to practice.

2. How long does it take to complete a Medical Social Worker Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to complete a Medical Social Worker Certification varies depending on the program and your level of experience. Generally, the program can take anywhere from 12-24 months to complete.

3. Are there any special requirements for my certification?

Answer: Depending on the certification you are pursuing, there could be additional requirements such as passing an exam or completing certain continuing education courses. It is best to check with the specific organization offering the certification for more information on their requirements.

4. What type of job can I expect after completing my certification?

Answer: After completing your Medical Social Worker Certification, you will be qualified for a variety of jobs within medical social work including case management, patient advocacy, discharge planning, crisis intervention and more.

5. Is financial assistance available for certifications?

Answer: Yes, many organizations offer financial assistance for certifications through scholarships and grants. Additionally, some employers may also provide tuition reimbursement for certifications that are related to your current job or desired career path.