If you have recently graduated from an accredited bachelor's or master's degree in health administration, then one of the best ways to break into the medical industry is to pursue different certifications available for healthcare administrators by the world's leading professional organizations. While education and practical work experience are most important, certification is an excellent way to increase your credentials to land your dream job in managing medical facilities. Read on to learn more about some of the certifications for healthcare administrators to enhance professionalism in operating as the "face" of medical organizations in a range of specialty roles.

Certified Medical Manager

In an effort to recognize the ever-increasing need for individual office managers with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to successfully manage medical practices, the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management has established the Certified Medical Manager program. As one of the leaders in healthcare management certification, PAHCOM focuses on credentialing administrative professionals working in physician practices and various ambulatory service settings. In order to qualify for taking the three-hour CMM certification exam of 200 questions, candidates must have three years of administrative experience in patient care and at least 12 college credits in business/healthcare. When employers hire certified professionals through the PAHCOM, there is a significant increase in operational efficiency, financial performance, and regulatory compliance.

Certified Nursing Home Administrator

With the goal of recognizing professionals who have the abilities to create an organizational environment that will meet the physical, social, and emotional needs of residents, the American College of Health Care Administrators offers the Certified Nursing Home Administrator credentialing program. Certification through the ACHCA delivers career advancement, national endorsement, professional recognition, and personal satisfaction to those seeking to lead nursing homes or long-term care facilities. To be eligible, candidates must have at least two years of state licensure, have earned a bachelor's degree or higher, and possess a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education relevant to nursing home or assisted living facility management.

Certified Revenue Cycle Executive

For senior or executive leaders within the revenue cycle industry, the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management offers the Certified Revenue Cycle Executive credentialing program to equip professionals with the strategic management skills of the business. As the associate's most difficult certification available to combine content knowledge in business with critical thinking and communication skills, the CRCE credential showcases an individual's proficiency in playing an integral role in the revenue cycle industry. To take the proctored eight-hour online certification exam, candidates need to be members in good standing, have at least four years of experience in healthcare, possess at least a two-year associate's degree, and have strong knowledge of revenue cycle management.

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Since these certifications are completely optional in most cases, it can communication to future employers that you possess the necessary knowledge, skills, abilities, values, attributes, and professional competencies needed to lead healthcare organizations in today's increasingly competitive business marketplace. In order to work smarter, build a more successful career, stay informed on new changes, and make the right contacts in the field, be sure to consider applying for one or more of these different certifications available for healthcare administrators.