Top 11 Patient Care Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a patient care coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage patient care. Certifications provide potential employers with assurance that the individual is qualified for the position. They also act as a benchmark for employers to compare candidates when making hiring decisions. Additionally, certifications can help increase an individual's salary and job prospects, as well as demonstrate their commitment to professional development and staying up-to-date on industry trends.

This article reviews the top certifications for Patient Care Coordinators and explains how they can help to advance a patient care coordinator's career.

What are Patient Care Coordinator Certifications?

Patient Care Coordinator Certification is a credential that can be earned by healthcare professionals who specialize in helping patients understand their medical care and how to best manage it. It is designed to help healthcare professionals become better prepared to coordinate patient care, coordinate resources for patients, and provide support for patients throughout the entire course of their treatment. This certification can help healthcare professionals gain recognition for their skills, as well as providing employers with an assurance of competence in this field.

The certification requires the completion of a comprehensive program which includes courses in patient care management, communication, customer service, medical terminology, legal issues, resource management and more. The curriculum also covers topics such as working with diverse populations, ethical considerations, workflow systems and team building. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals are awarded a certificate which they may use to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in this area.

Having Patient Care Coordinator Certification can be beneficial for those seeking employment or advancement in this field. It provides employers with an assurance that the applicant has the necessary qualifications to effectively coordinate patient care and provide support throughout the treatment process. In addition, having this certification can help healthcare professionals stand out from other applicants when seeking positions or promotions within the organization. Ultimately, Patient Care Coordinator Certification can provide individuals with greater job security and career potential by demonstrating specialized knowledge and experience in this increasingly important field.

Pro Tip: Make sure to thoroughly research the certification requirements for patient care coordinator certification before enrolling in a program. Many programs offer different levels of certification and it is important to know what is required for each level before committing to a particular program. Additionally, many organizations have their own specific requirements for patient care coordinators, so be sure to check with the organization you are working for or applying to for further information.

Related: What does a Patient Care Coordinator do?

Top 11 Patient Care Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Patient Care Coordinators today.

1. Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) is a certification program designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of medical office managers. The program provides a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities and duties of medical office managers, including financial management, human resources, patient relations, and other administrative tasks.

The CMOM certification program is offered through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It typically takes between three to six months to complete the certification process. To become certified, candidates must pass an online exam that covers topics such as billing and coding, patient relations, customer service, legal issues, and more. Candidates must also have at least two years of experience in a healthcare setting in order to qualify for the exam.

The cost of the CMOM certification program varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $400 to $600 USD. This includes all materials necessary to complete the coursework and take the exam.

2. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in medical coding. The CPC credential is the gold standard for medical coding professionals and is considered the most comprehensive and respected coding certification available.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the preparation process for the CPC exam. During this time, individuals should become familiar with coding guidelines and regulations, as well as practice coding using AAPC’s online practice exams.

To get certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by AAPC. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes, HCPCS Level II procedure codes, CPT procedure codes, modifiers, reimbursement methodologies, and more.

The cost of the CPC exam varies depending on whether or not you are an AAPC member. For non-members it costs $399 while members pay $299.

3. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals working in medical administrative roles. The certification is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

The CMAA certification requires applicants to have at least one year of full-time experience in a medical administrative role or equivalent education and training. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, coding systems, healthcare regulations, insurance processing, scheduling and appointment management, patient records management, customer service principles and practices, and other related topics.

It typically takes between two to three months to prepare for the CMAA exam. Preparation methods include self-study using textbooks or online courses, attending classes or workshops offered by local colleges or universities, or taking practice exams.

The cost of the CMAA certification varies depending on the preparation method chosen. Self-study materials can range from free online resources to expensive textbooks; classes and workshops can cost anywhere from $200-$1000; and practice exams can cost around $100-$200. The actual exam fee is $119 for NHA members and $169 for non-members.

4. Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT)

A Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) is a professional healthcare worker who provides direct patient care in a variety of settings. CPCTs are trained in basic medical procedures, such as taking vital signs, providing wound care, and assisting with activities of daily living. They may also provide emotional support to patients and their families.

It typically takes around six months to complete the training required for certification as a CPCT. The exact length of time varies depending on the program you choose and how quickly you can complete the courses. Most programs include both classroom instruction and clinical experience in a healthcare setting.

To become certified as a CPCT, you must first complete an accredited program that meets the standards set by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). You will then need to pass the NHA's Certified Patient Care Technician Exam to earn your certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a CPCT varies depending on where you take your classes and what type of program you choose. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $2,000 for tuition and fees associated with completing the program and taking the exam.

5. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is a professional healthcare provider who has been trained to provide clinical services in a medical office setting. The CCMA is responsible for providing patient care under the supervision of a physician or other healthcare provider. The CCMA performs routine administrative and clinical tasks to keep the medical office running smoothly.

The certification process for becoming a CCMA typically takes about six months to complete. To become certified, an individual must pass an exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). This exam tests knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, laboratory procedures, and pharmacology.

In order to take the exam, applicants must first complete an accredited training program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience in a clinical setting. These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and online schools. After completing the program and passing the exam, individuals are awarded their CCMA certification.

The cost of becoming a CCMA varies depending on where you take your training program and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $500-$2,000 depending on the length of the program and any additional fees associated with taking the certification exam.

6. Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS)

A Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) is a professional who has been certified by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) to demonstrate proficiency in the use of electronic health records. CEHRSs are responsible for managing and maintaining patient data within an electronic health records system, as well as ensuring that all data is secure and compliant with applicable regulations.

In order to become a CEHRS, individuals must complete an approved program from an accredited institution and pass the NHA’s certification exam. The program typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the institution offering it. Once the program is completed, individuals can take the NHA’s certification exam.

The cost of becoming a CEHRS varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally, tuition fees range from $2,000 to $4,000 for a six-month course or up to $8,000 for a one-year course. Additionally, there is a fee of $169 for taking the NHA’s certification exam.

7. Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE)

Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) is a professional certification program for medical practice administrators and healthcare executives. The CMPE certification is offered by the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE), which is the credentialing arm of the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA).

The CMPE certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the business operations of a medical practice, including financial management, human resources, information technology, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance. It also requires knowledge in areas such as patient care coordination, quality improvement, and performance measurement.

It typically takes 6 to 12 months to complete the CMPE program depending on your experience level. To become certified you must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having at least three years of healthcare management experience and completing an approved course in healthcare administration or an equivalent program. You must also pass an exam administered by ACMPE that covers topics related to healthcare management.

The cost of obtaining the CMPE certification varies depending on whether you are a member of MGMA or not. For non-members it costs $395 for the application fee plus $495 for the exam fee. For members it costs $295 for the application fee plus $395 for the exam fee.

8. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of healthcare quality management. It is awarded by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) and is recognized as the gold standard for healthcare quality professionals.

The CPHQ certification requires passing a comprehensive exam that tests an individual’s knowledge of healthcare quality management principles, practices, and standards. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient safety, risk management, performance improvement, data analysis and reporting, regulatory compliance, and more. To be eligible to take the exam, individuals must have at least two years of full-time experience in a healthcare quality role or hold a master’s degree in a related field.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at Pearson VUE testing centers around the world. The cost of taking the CPHQ exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD.

9. Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)

A Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) is a professional who specializes in the management of health information data. RHITs are responsible for ensuring the accuracy, privacy, and security of patient health information. They play an important role in the healthcare system by collecting, analyzing, and maintaining patient medical records.

It typically takes two years to earn an Associate’s degree in Health Information Technology (HIT). This degree program provides students with the technical skills and knowledge needed to become a RHIT. Additionally, some programs may offer certifications or specialized training that can help prepare students for their career as a RHIT.

In order to become certified as a RHIT, individuals must pass the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as coding systems, legal issues related to health information management, and data analysis.

The cost of taking the RHIT exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $300-$400 to take the exam.

10. American Association of Medical Assistants Certification Exam for Medical Assistants

The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) Certification Exam for Medical Assistants is a comprehensive exam that tests an individual’s knowledge and skills in the medical assisting field. It is designed to measure a candidate’s ability to perform the duties of a medical assistant, including patient care, administrative tasks, and clinical procedures.

The AAMA certification exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. The exam covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, laboratory procedures, legal issues, medical office management, and more.

To become certified by the AAMA, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a high school diploma or equivalent; completing an accredited medical assisting program; and passing both the written and practical exams administered by the AAMA.

The cost of taking the AAMA Certification Exam for Medical Assistants varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost around $150 to take the exam at an approved testing center or online with ProctorU.

11. National Healthcareer Association Patient Care Technician Certification

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Patient Care Technician Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality patient care in a variety of settings. The certification is offered to those who have completed an NHA-approved training program or have equivalent work experience.

The NHA Patient Care Technician Certification typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete, depending on the individual's educational background and work experience. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient safety, infection control, medication administration, vital signs monitoring, documentation and communication.

In order to take the exam for the NHA Patient Care Technician Certification, individuals must first register with the NHA and pay a registration fee of $125 USD. Once registered, they will receive access to study materials and practice tests that can help them prepare for the exam. After passing the exam, individuals will be awarded their certification which is valid for 2 years.

The cost of taking the exam for the NHA Patient Care Technician Certification varies depending on whether or not you are eligible for any discounts or special offers from the NHA. However, in general it costs around $150 USD per attempt.

Do You Really Need a Patient Care Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and what they are hoping to achieve. For those who are looking to work as a patient care coordinator, then a patient care coordinator certificate may be beneficial. A certificate can demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to be successful in their role. It can also provide potential employers with evidence of the specific skillset needed for the job.

For those who already have experience in healthcare and are looking to specialize in patient care coordination, a certificate may not be necessary. However, it can still be beneficial for those individuals since it may help them stand out from other applicants or demonstrate their commitment to continuing education. Additionally, some employers may prefer candidates who have achieved certification. Therefore, depending on the individual’s goals, obtaining a patient care coordinator certificate could be helpful.

Related: Patient Care Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Patient Care Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Patient Care Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Patient Care Coordinator Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in managing patient care within a healthcare setting. It certifies that the holder has the necessary skills to coordinate all aspects of patient care, including scheduling appointments, coordinating insurance coverage, and providing support services.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Patient Care Coordinator Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Patient Care Coordinator Certification, individuals typically need to have at least two years of experience in a healthcare setting and pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Patient Care Coordinator?

Answer: The time required to obtain certification can vary depending on the individual's experience level and their ability to study and prepare for the exam. Generally, it takes approximately 2-6 months to complete all of the necessary coursework and training required for certification.

4. Is there any continuing education required for maintaining a Patient Care Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require continuing education credits (CECs) to maintain certification status. CECs must be acquired through approved courses or activities related to patient care coordination.

5. How much does it cost to become certified as a Patient Care Coordinator?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified can vary depending on the certifying organization; however, most organizations charge an application fee ranging from $50-$200 and an examination fee ranging from $150-$500. In addition, there may be other fees associated with obtaining continuing education credits or renewing certifications over time.