Top 10 Patient Access Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for patient access specialists. They demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field, which can help set individuals apart from other applicants and make them more attractive to potential employers. They also show that the individual has taken the time to learn about their profession, which can bolster confidence in their abilities. Additionally, certifications can give a patient access specialist access to professional networks and resources that can be invaluable when it comes to staying up-to-date on industry trends and developments.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Patient Access Specialists and how they can help to enhance and advance a Patient Access Specialist's career.

What are Patient Access Specialist Certifications?

Patient Access Specialist Certification is a nationally recognized certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the field of patient access. The certification is administered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM) and requires individuals to pass an exam.

The Patient Access Specialist Certification is designed to ensure that those working in the field of patient access are knowledgeable about all aspects of the job including registration, insurance verification, financial counseling, scheduling, and more. It also provides employers with assurance that they have knowledgeable staff members who can provide quality service to their patients.

Having a Patient Access Specialist Certification can help individuals advance their careers by demonstrating their professional knowledge and commitment to excellence in patient access. It also provides them with a credential that employers recognize as validation of their skills and abilities in the field. With this certification, individuals can be more competitive in the job market since they will stand out from other candidates without it. Additionally, having this certification may lead to increased salaries or better job opportunities.

Pro tip: Make sure to research the requirements for patient access specialist certification in your state or region, as they can vary. Many states require certification to practice as a patient access specialist, so if you're interested in this career path, it's important to understand what is required of you before taking the plunge.

Related: What does a Patient Access Specialist do?

Top 10 Patient Access Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Patient Access Specialists today.

1. Certified Patient Access Specialist (CPAS)

Certified Patient Access Specialist (CPAS) is a certification offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in patient access services. The CPAS credential is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide quality patient access services.

To become certified as a CPAS, individuals must have at least one year of experience in the field of patient access services or healthcare registration. They must also pass an exam administered by NAHAM. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer service, medical terminology, insurance verification, coding/billing, and other related areas.

The cost for the CPAS exam varies depending on whether you are a member of NAHAM or not. For non-members, the fee is $250; for members it is $200. The exam can be taken online or in person at designated testing centers. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your CPAS credential within four weeks.

2. Certified Professional Coder-Patient Access (CPC-PA)

Certified Professional Coder-Patient Access (CPC-PA) is a credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of patient access. It is awarded by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The CPC-PA certification validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of patient registration, insurance verification, medical coding, and data entry.

The CPC-PA exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that must be completed within four hours. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience working in a patient access role or have completed an approved AAPC training program.

To get certified, applicants must register with AAPC and pay the applicable fees. The cost to take the exam is $399 for members and $499 for non-members. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official certification card in the mail within 4 to 6 weeks.

3. Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM)

Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM) is a professional certification for healthcare access managers. It is offered by the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM), and it recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in managing patient access services within a healthcare organization. The CHAM credential is designed to improve the quality of patient access services and ensure that patients receive timely, appropriate care.

The CHAM credential requires applicants to pass both an online exam and a written application process. The online exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient registration, scheduling, insurance verification, and customer service. The written application includes questions about the applicant’s professional experience, education, and knowledge related to healthcare access management.

The cost of obtaining the CHAM credential is $395 for NAHAM members or $495 for non-members. It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete all requirements for the CHAM certification. To get started on obtaining your CHAM credential, you must first become a member of NAHAM by completing an online membership application. Once you are approved as a member, you can then register for the exam and complete the written application process.

4. Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR)

A Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the revenue cycle management (RCM) process. The CRCR certification is designed to provide healthcare organizations with assurance that their revenue cycle staff possess the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the financial aspects of patient care.

The CRCR certification is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). To become certified, individuals must pass an online exam that covers topics such as medical coding, billing, reimbursement, collections, and compliance. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CRCR exam, applicants must have at least one year of experience in a healthcare setting or have completed at least one AAPC course related to RCM. Additionally, applicants must pay an application fee and an exam fee prior to taking the test. The application fee is $50, while the exam fee varies depending on whether or not you are a member of AAPC; non-members pay $399 for the exam while members pay $299.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CRCR certificate from AAPC and will be listed in their directory of certified professionals. You will also be able to use the “CRCR” designation after your name when listing your credentials on resumes and other documents.

5. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) is a certification for medical administrative assistants. It is a professional credential that demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to perform administrative duties in a medical office setting. The certification is offered through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

To become certified as a CMAA, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, insurance processing, appointment scheduling, patient registration and records maintenance. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CMAA exam, applicants must have at least one year of experience working in a medical office or have completed an accredited medical office assistant program. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of their work experience or educational credentials before they can take the exam.

The cost to take the CMAA exam is $125 USD. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official certification from NHA and will need to renew it every two years by submitting proof of continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

6. Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS)

Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS) is a certification program offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The CEHRS certification program is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage electronic health records (EHRs). It covers topics such as EHR implementation, data security and privacy, patient engagement, and health information exchange.

The CEHRS certification requires successful completion of an exam that tests knowledge in seven core areas: fundamentals of EHRs, legal/regulatory requirements, data security/privacy, clinical documentation, patient engagement/coordination of care, health information exchange, and practice management. The exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions and takes two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CEHRS certification exam, applicants must have either a high school diploma or GED equivalent; have at least one year of experience in an EHR environment; or have completed a formal training program related to EHRs.

The cost for the CEHRS certification exam is $179 for NHA members and $229 for non-members. Once certified, individuals must renew their CEHRS certification every three years by completing 30 continuing education credits.

7. Certified Patient Account Technician (CPAT)

Certified Patient Account Technician (CPAT) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of patient accounts. The CPAT certification is offered by the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM). It is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the skills they need to effectively manage patient accounts, including billing, coding, collections, and other related areas.

The CPAT certification requires applicants to complete an application and pass an exam. The exam consists of three parts: a written test, a skills assessment, and a practical application. Applicants must have at least two years of experience in healthcare finance or related fields in order to be eligible for the certification.

The cost of the CPAT exam varies depending on the state in which it is taken. Generally, it costs between $200-$500. The exam typically takes about four hours to complete and can be taken at any AAHAM-approved testing center.

Once you have successfully passed the CPAT exam, you will receive your official certificate from AAHAM. This certificate will serve as proof that you are certified as a Patient Account Technician and can be used as evidence of your qualifications when applying for jobs or promotions within the healthcare industry.

8. Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)

Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) is a professional certification offered by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). It is designed to help healthcare professionals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare finance. The CHFP certification is intended for individuals who are responsible for financial management in a healthcare setting, including those working in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, managed care organizations, physician practices, and other related organizations.

To obtain the CHFP certification, individuals must have at least three years of experience in healthcare finance and pass an exam administered by HFMA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as budgeting and forecasting, reimbursement systems, cost accounting principles, financial statement analysis and reporting, compliance issues, and risk management. Candidates must also complete a professional development program prior to taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CHFP certification varies depending on whether or not you are an HFMA member. For non-members, the cost is $1125 USD; for members it is $925 USD. Additionally, there is a $50 application fee that must be paid when registering for the exam.

The process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on how quickly you can study and prepare for the exam.

9. Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (CMBCS)

Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (CMBCS) is a professional certification program designed to help medical billing and coding professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills. The CMBCS certification is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

The CMBCS certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, coding systems, reimbursement methodologies, and healthcare compliance. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be taken at an AAPC-approved testing center. It takes approximately 4 hours to complete the exam.

In order to be eligible to take the CMBCS exam, applicants must have either completed a formal training program in medical billing and coding or have two years of experience in the field. Applicants must also pass a background check prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the CMBCS certification varies depending on whether you are an AAPC member or not. For non-members, it costs $399 for the exam fee plus any applicable taxes; for members, it costs $299 plus any applicable taxes. Once certified, there is an annual fee of $50 plus any applicable taxes for both members and non-members in order to maintain your certification status.

10. American Academy of Professional Coders Certification in Patient Access (AAPC-PA).

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certification in Patient Access (AAPC-PA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the patient access field. This certification verifies that an individual has the necessary knowledge and experience to perform patient access functions such as registration, scheduling, insurance verification, financial counseling, and more.

To obtain AAPC-PA certification, applicants must first complete an approved training program or demonstrate three years of full-time equivalent experience in a healthcare setting. Once the training or experience requirements have been met, applicants must then pass a written exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical terminology, healthcare regulations, customer service principles, healthcare reimbursement systems, and more.

The AAPC-PA certification is valid for two years from the date of issuance and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits and paying a renewal fee. The cost of obtaining AAPC-PA certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Patient Access Specialist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Patient Access Specialist Certificate depends on your individual goals and the requirements of the job you are applying for. However, having a certificate can demonstrate to employers that you have achieved a certain level of competency in patient access and that you understand the processes related to it. It also shows that you are serious about pursuing a career in this field.

If you are looking for entry-level work in patient access, having a Patient Access Specialist Certificate may be helpful, but not necessarily required. Many employers will look for experience as well as knowledge when making hiring decisions. However, if your goal is to advance within the field of patient access, having a certificate can help set you apart from other applicants who do not have one. It can also provide evidence of your commitment to the profession and your ability to learn new concepts quickly and effectively.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they need to obtain a Patient Access Specialist Certificate. If it is something that interests you and aligns with your professional goals, then it may be worth considering getting certified.

Related: Patient Access Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Patient Access Specialist Certifications

Q1. What is a Patient Access Specialist Certification?

A1. A Patient Access Specialist Certification is a certification program that provides training and education on the fundamentals of patient access in healthcare settings. This certification covers topics such as medical terminology, patient registration, insurance verification, patient scheduling, and more.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Patient Access Specialist?

A2. To become certified as a Patient Access Specialist, you must first complete an approved educational program or course of study related to the field of patient access management. After completing the educational requirements, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying organization to earn your certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Patient Access Specialist?

A3. Becoming a certified Patient Access Specialist offers numerous benefits including increased job security and higher earning potential due to increased knowledge and expertise in the field of patient access. Additionally, employers may view this certification as evidence of commitment to quality care and dedication to professional development in the field of patient access management.

Q4. What are some common duties performed by a Patient Access Specialist?

A4. Some common duties performed by a Patient Access Specialist include verifying insurance coverage, collecting co-pays, entering information into electronic medical records systems, registering patients for appointments and procedures, scheduling appointments with providers, answering telephone inquiries from patients or family members about their care needs and services available at the facility or clinic where they are receiving care. Additionally, Patient Access Specialists may also be responsible for providing customer service support to patients and families during their visit or stay at the facility or clinic where they are receiving care.

Q5. How often is recertification required for a Patient Access Specialist Certification?

A5: Recertification is typically required every two years after initial certification has been obtained in order to maintain active status as a Certified Patient Access Professional (CPAP). The recertification process typically involves completing continuing education courses related to patient access management topics as well as passing an exam administered by an accredited certifying organization that verifies knowledge in core competencies related to patient access management