Becoming certified in healthcare compliance confirms your expertise and dedication to ensuring compliance with healthcare laws, regulations, and ethical standards. Professionals Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) possess a verifiable mark of excellence and commitment.
Non-compliance in healthcare settings can be significantly costly. For example, health organizations with high levels of non-compliance faced an average cost of about $5 million for each cybersecurity breach, a 12.6% increase compared to organizations with strong CHC compliance.
Given the staggering non-compliance costs and the critical need for robust compliance measures, obtaining a CHC certification has become imperative.
This post will explore the importance of meeting CHC certification requirements, the types of healthcare compliance certifications available, and a step-by-step guide to achieving your CHC certification. Understanding these elements is crucial for professionals aiming to excel in healthcare compliance and organizations striving to minimize risks and enhance compliance training programs per Compliance Certification Board (CCB) standards.
Why Get Certified in Healthcare Compliance?
Healthcare compliance certifications are vital for the following:
- Professional Validation: Demonstrating your commitment to high standards.
- Career Advancement: Offering better job prospects and earning potential.
- Organizational Benefit: Helping employers navigate complex regulatory environments.
- Enhanced Patient Trust: Ensuring adherence to healthcare laws and ethical standards fosters patient trust.
- Legal Protection: Reducing the risk of legal penalties and fines by ensuring regulatory and CHC compliance.
Steps to Achieve Your CHC Certification
Once you decide to pursue this critical certification, developing the right strategy is essential. Follow these general steps to achieve your CHC certification.
1. Review and Meet Eligibility Requirements
Ensure you have all the CHC certification requirements, including educational background and relevant work experience.
2. Complete Required Training
Participate in compliance training programs covering healthcare compliance laws, regulations, and best practices.
3. Apply for Certification
Once you have met the requirements, submit your application, including the necessary documentation and fees.
4. Prepare for the Exam
Use study materials and attend review courses to prepare for the certification exam.
5. Schedule, Take, and Pass the Exam
Schedule and pass the exam, which tests your knowledge of healthcare compliance issues.
6. Maintain Your Certification
Maintain your certification through continuing education and adherence to professional ethics.
Other Types of Healthcare Compliance Certifications
Obtaining your CHC certification is an excellent starting point for a career in healthcare compliance. However, there is always more to learn and additional certifications to pursue. Expanding your knowledge and skills through further certifications, including CHC requirements, will not only advance your career but also contribute significantly to the integrity and effectiveness of healthcare compliance programs.
In addition to CHC, consider these other certifications as you develop your career:
- Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP)
- Certified HIPAA Professional (CHP)
- Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO)
- Certified Medical Compliance Officer (CMCO)
- Certified in Healthcare Privacy Compliance (CHPC)
- Certified in Healthcare Research Compliance (CHRC)
