Best Path to Becoming a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM)

Did you know that certified healthcare facility managers (CHFMs) are really important? They make sure healthcare places run well. Their skill in handling tricky healthcare settings is very much needed. This is because the healthcare world is growing fast and rules are always changing. For people wanting to grow in healthcare facility management, getting CHFM certification opens new doors.

With CHFM certification, you show you want to be top-notch in managing healthcare places. By choosing the best way to get CHFM, you boost what you know, what you can do, and your status. This makes you someone everyone wants on their team. In this piece, we’ll help you understand how to become a CHFM, tips for the exam, and why keeping your certification up to date is crucial. Let’s dive into the journey of becoming a certified healthcare facility manager.

Certification Requirements for CHFM

To become a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM), you need to meet certain certification requirements. The AHA-Certification Center (AHA-CC) sets these requirements. They are key to keeping your credential valid.

One of the main requirements for CHFM is to earn a specific number of Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

The AHA-CC states you must finish 45 credits or contact hours before your certification ends. These CEUs come from activities like going to management conferences, workshops, or taking courses.

The AHA-CC also knows that getting CEUs during the COVID-19 pandemic is hard. So, they might give you extra time to get them. But remember, you still must meet the recertification requirements even with an extension.

Fulfilling the CHFM requirements keeps your knowledge current in healthcare facility management.

By completing the CHFM requirements, you show you’re dedicated to growing as a healthcare facility manager. This certification proves your expert skills. It shows you’re ready to succeed in your job.

Exam Preparation for CHFM

Getting ready for the CHFM exam is key to success. You’ll find plenty of study tools to help you. Look at these:

1. Online Courses: Join online courses just for the CHFM exam. They cover the five main areas you’ll need to know. Plus, they give you all the study stuff you need.
2. Practice Test Questions: Use lots of practice test questions to get the feel of the CHFM exam. This practice makes perfect. It shows you what to focus on more.
3. Study Materials: Don’t forget your textbooks, guides, and more. They help fill in all the details and review important ideas for the test.

The AHA-CC (AHA-Certification Center) has a course online too. It helps you get better in the main areas the CHFM test covers. Taking this course can boost your preparation and chance of passing.

Also, make sure to read the CHFM exam Candidate Handbook from the AHA-CC. It gives you important tips and rules to follow for the exam smoothly.

Joining a prep course and using study tools can lift your success odds, but it’s not a sure thing. Be sure to study in a way that works best for you. This, with good test-taking tips, makes a big difference.

Putting in time and effort before the exam is key. It raises your chances of acing the CHFM test.

CHFM Exam Tips

While you’re prepping, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Create a Study Schedule: Make a study schedule that’s regular and steady. This method helps you remember more and understand better.
• Take Practice Exams: Try lots of practice exams to check your knowledge. They help you get used to the real test and the kinds of questions you’ll see.
• Utilize Mnemonics and Flashcards: Mnemonics and flashcards are great for your memory. Use them to remember important points and terms more easily.
• Seek Support and Guidance: Don’t be afraid to ask others for help. Talking to other CHFM test-takers or pros can give you valuable tips and study materials.
• Get Adequate Rest and Manage Stress: Rest well and keep stress in check. Your mind and body need to be in top form for the exam.

Follow these tips to get ready for the CHFM exam. They’ll help you face the test more confidently and hopefully do well.

Applying for the CHFM Exam

To get CHFM certified, you must apply online for the exam. You will need to upload documents and pay the fee. The American Hospital Association Certification Center lets you do this on their site.

Before you apply, check if you qualify. Make sure you have the right education and work experience in healthcare management. This is to avoid any chance of not being allowed to take the test.

After confirming you’re eligible and have your documents ready, start your application online. Fill in your details correctly. Then, check all your info to make sure it’s right.

Next, you have to upload your documents. You might need to show your education, work experience, and job certificates. Get these documents ready before you start your application.

Did You Know?

Applying without all your documents ready could slow things down. Make sure you have everything needed to avoid problems.

After you send your application and documents, you must pay the exam fee. The cost is $495 for AHA members and $650 for others. Be ready with the payment.

The AHA-CC will then review your submission. If all is well and you meet the rules, they’ll say yes.

If your application is accepted, you’ll get directions to pick a test date. Choose a time that works for you and meets any deadlines. This will make scheduling your exam easier.

Benefits of Applying Online:

• Convenience – Apply when you want, from where it suits you best.
• Efficiency – Applying online means your application gets looked at faster.
• Accessibility – The site is open all day, every day, so you can apply at your convenience.

By applying online for the CHFM Exam, you’re on your way to being CHFM certified. Be sure to complete the application carefully. Once approved, you can get ready for the exam. This will boost your career in healthcare management.

Benefits of CHFM Certification

CHFM certification brings many advantages. It shows your expertise and dedication in healthcare facility management. This makes employers want you for your skills.

• Enhanced Professionalism: It proves you’re serious about offering top-notch management in healthcare. You become someone others trust and see as skilled.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Certified CHFMs find more chances to grow their careers. Companies often look for certified managers for their teams.
• Increased Earning Potential: You could earn more with a CHFM certification. Your specialized knowledge and skills can mean a higher salary in management.
• Exclusive Networking: Certification offers connections to special, career-boosting events. You can meet people who offer knowledge, advice, or even job opportunities.
• Professional Development Resources: CHFM opens doors to learning opportunities. This includes things like reading materials, online discussions, and courses to keep you ahead in your field.

Having CHFM certification sets you up for success. It confirms your abilities, lets you climb the career ladder, and boosts your standing in the industry.

Testimonials:

“CHFM changed my professional life for the better. It made me more competitive and confident in healthcare management. I aim higher now.” – Jane Thompson, CHFM Certified Professional

“Getting CHFM certification was a turning point in my career. It not just opened new job doors but also gave me the know-how to succeed in managing healthcare facilities. It’s been key to my career growth.” – Michael Rodriguez, CHFM Certified Professional

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Importance of Certification Renewal

Getting your CHFM certification is just the first step. Remember, it’s very important to renew it. This keeps your certification current and trusted by those in the field.

To renew, you must earn a certain number of CEUs. It shows you’re still learning and growing in healthcare facility management.

Continuing education helps you know the newest trends and work better. It doesn’t just improve your skills. It means you’re ready for new challenges in managing healthcare.

Missing the renewal deadline is risky. Letting your certification expire could mean retaking the CHFM exam. This means more time, effort, and possibly more money.

To avoid this, renew your certification before it expires. Make sure you’ve gathered the CEUs and paid the fees by then.

Renewing your CHFM certification says a lot. It shows you still care about doing a great job in the healthcare field. And it makes you stand out when looking for a job.

“Certification renewal ensures that healthcare facility managers are equipped with the most current knowledge and skills, enabling them to deliver the highest quality services in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.”

Being a CHFM means you’re part of a group that wants to improve healthcare. Renewing your certificate keeps you connected. It also opens doors to more learning and job opportunities.

Renewal Extension and COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has made getting enough CEUs for CHFM certification tough. But the AHA-CC gives a solution. They offer a renewal extension. This lets people in hard spots ask for more time to finish their certification needs.

If you can’t meet renewal requirements because of COVID-19 or other reasons, ask for an extension. Email a detailed request to certification@aha.org. Tell them why you need more time and show any proof if needed. The AHA-CC will look at your case and decide on an extension.

Getting an extension doesn’t mean you can skip doing the CEUs. You must still try to finish your CEUs within the extra time. The extension just gives you a break. It’s not an excuse to ignore your CHFM certification duties.

Getting a renewal extension might have its own rules. The AHA-CC will carefully look at your situation before they decide. Make sure to give them the right info. This raises your chances of them saying yes to your request.

Remember, keeping your CHFM certification up to date is vital. Being proactive and following the recertification rules shows your commitment. It proves you’re serious about healthcare facility management.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the AHA-CC offers a renewal extension option to support individuals who may face difficulties fulfilling the recertification requirements.

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Exam Readiness Check

Before you take the CHFM exam, checking your readiness is key. This step helps you see what you know well and what you need to study more. The AHA-Certification Center (AHA-CC) offers a great exam readiness course for this.

The exam readiness course at the AHA-CC helps CHFM exam takers improve their test skills. It includes talks, practice questions like the real exam, and study materials. These focus on the five main things you need to know for the test.

While the course doesn’t promise you’ll pass, it can make you feel more ready. It also shares tips on how to do well on a computer-based test.

This course from the AHA-CC can boost your confidence for the CHFM exam. It can help make sure you’re well-prepared, giving you a better shot at passing.

Additional Exam Preparation Resources

For the CHFM exam, there are more resources to boost your readiness and aid in your success. The AHA-CC offers various tools and materials. These support your study work alongside the exam readiness check course.

CHFM Exam Candidate Handbook

The AHA-CC presents the CHFM exam Candidate Handbook as a download. It’s a detailed guide with all you need to know. It includes the exam’s format, content, and how to approach exam day. By reading the Handbook, you get familiar with the exam’s setup and know what to anticipate.

Flashcards for Effective Study

If you’re looking for a good study tool, consider using flashcards for the CHFM exam. The AHA-CC offers flashcards to help you remember key points better. These cards encourage active learning and a deeper grasp of critical information. Regular use of flashcards can boost your knowledge and recall, making you more prepared for the exam.

Adding these resources to your study plan gives you a more comprehensive approach. This complements the exam readiness check course. Using these tools helps make your study process more effective. It raises your chances of doing well on the exam day.

Conclusion

Getting a CHFM certification is a big deal for those in healthcare facility management. You need to know how to get certified, meet all the requirements, study hard for the exam, and renew your certification when required. Having a CHFM certificate shows your knowledge and dedication to providing top-notch healthcare facility management. This can open many new doors for you in your career.

To start on the path to becoming a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager, follow the necessary steps. This can lead you to a rewarding career in healthcare facility management.

Source Links

• https://www.ashe.org/education/chfm_elearning
• https://www.aha.org/career-resources/certification-center/chfm
• https://www.ashe.org/chfm