The Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) certification demonstrates your expertise in healthcare quality management. However, maintaining this credential requires periodic recertification to ensure you stay updated with industry advancements and best practices. This guide will walk you through the CPHQ recertification requirements and highlight resources to help you succeed, including free events hosted by Quality Leaders Academy.
WHEN DO YOU NEED TO RECERTIFY?
The CPHQ credential requires renewal every two years. Each recertification cycle begins on January 1 of the year following your initial certification and ends on December 31 of the second year.
For example, if you earned your certification in June 2023, your first recertification cycle starts on January 1, 2024, and ends on December 31, 2025.
You can confirm your certification’s expiration date by logging into your NAHQ account and checking the "My Certification" section. It is essential to stay aware of your deadlines to avoid additional fees or losing certification. Missing your deadline can lead to additional costs or, in the worst-case scenario, losing your certification status.
Planning ensures that you complete all requirements on time, avoiding unnecessary stress.
CPHQ RECERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
To recertify your CPHQ, you must:
Earn 30 Education (CE) Credits:
You may fulfill the requirement with any 30 CE hours from any accredited platform, to assist you, we provide access to relevant events that meet this criterion.
Submit a Recertification Application:
- This must be completed by December 31 of your cycle’s end year. Starting the application process early gives you ample time to address any technical or documentation issues.
Maintain Accurate Documentation:
- While you don’t need to submit proof of CE credits during the application, you must retain documentation in case of an audit. Audit notifications are sent within a week of recertification and require detailed records of your CE activities. Ensure your documentation includes the date, title, and CE credits of each activity.
HOW MUCH DOES CPHQ RECERTIFICATION COST?
Recertification fees depend on your timing and membership status:
- Advanced Rate (July 1 – September 30):
- NAHQ Members: $175
- Non-Members: $230
- Standard Rate (October 1 – December 31):
- NAHQ Members: $225
- Non-Members: $280
- Grace Period (January 1 – January 31):
- NAHQ Members: $275
- Non-Members: $330
Submitting your application early will help you avoid all the stress and extra costs associated with last-minute submissions. The membership in NAHQ provides you with financial benefits, as well as access to exclusive resources, which might offset some costs in the long run.
EARNING CE CREDITS
The following are some ways to earn CE credits for recertification:
- Conferences and webinars.
- Speaking engagements.
- Approved online courses.
- Specialized workshops.
Quality Leaders Academy is one of the best resources available. They organize events designed specifically for healthcare professionals. The events provide practical knowledge and valuable CE credits applicable to CPHQ recertification.
For instance, the workshops are specifically designed on the topics of healthcare quality improvement and patient safety, you can find their future events here.
Their programs are specifically designed to support professionals like you in meeting recertification requirements efficiently while advancing your career in healthcare quality.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MISS YOUR DEADLINE?
If you fail to submit your recertification application by December 31, you can still recertify during the grace period (January 1–31) by paying a late fee. However, during this grace period, one cannot gain CE credits. Failure to apply during the grace period results in the lapsing of certification; one needs to reappear for the CPHQ examination for reinstatement of the credential.
Missing a deadline can jeopardize your professional career because the CPHQ credential is one of the key indicators of your healthcare quality expertise. Avoid this by reminding yourself of deadlines and planning CE activities well in advance. Quality Leaders Academy is a resource that will keep you on track with a steady flow of approved CE activities throughout the year.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Retake the CPHQ Exam to Recertify?
No, retaking the CPHQ exam is not an option for recertification. You must fulfill the CE credit and application requirements instead. The recertification process is designed to ensure continuous learning and professional growth.
What If I Can’t Find CE Activities?
If you’re struggling to find CE opportunities, reach out to NAHQ at
They can guide you toward approved activities. Additionally, consider attending Quality Leaders Academy events for relevant and engaging workshops. Their calendar of events is updated regularly, ensuring you’ll find opportunities that align with your schedule.
Do I Need to Provide CE Documentation?
Not initially. Documentation is only required if you are randomly selected for an audit. Be prepared to present records with details such as the activity date, title, and CE credits earned. Keeping a dedicated folder for all your CE documentation can simplify the audit process.
Can I Apply for Retired Status?
Yes, retiring professionals can maintain their credentials by applying for CPHQ-Retired status. To be eligible, you must:
- Be a current CPHQ.
- Step away from the profession with no intention of returning.
- Pay a $100 application fee.
CPHQ recertification ensures you remain at the forefront of healthcare quality standards. By meeting the requirements, earning CE credits, and utilizing resources like Quality Leaders Academy, you can streamline the recertification process and continue your professional growth.
Quality Leaders Academy stands out as a trusted partner in your recertification journey.
The events they organize are set to arm you with the most updated information while helping you meet your CE credit requirements as efficiently as possible. Don't wait until the last minute; start planning your CE activities today to maintain your certification and advance your expertise in healthcare quality.
Read also:
Resources:
https://nahq.org/credentials/cphq-certified-professional-in-healthcare-quality/cphq-recertification/
https://nahq.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Recertification-Requirements_2024_v2.pdf