How to become a healthcare administrator

Is becoming a healthcare administrator right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do healthcare administrators do?

Still unsure if becoming a healthcare administrator is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a healthcare administrator or another similar career!

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How to become a Healthcare Administrator

Becoming a healthcare administrator requires a combination of education, relevant experience, and sometimes certification. Here is a detailed guide on how to pursue a career as a healthcare administrator:

  • Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Start by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Administration, Healthcare Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Look for accredited programs that provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems, management principles, and relevant coursework.
  • Gain Work Experience: While pursuing your degree, consider gaining relevant work experience in the healthcare field. Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. This experience will provide valuable insights into the industry and enhance your resume.
  • Pursue a Master's Degree (Optional): Although a master's degree is not always required, it can significantly enhance your career prospects and advancement opportunities. Consider obtaining a Master of Health Administration (MHA), Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a healthcare concentration, or a related master's degree. These programs offer advanced knowledge in healthcare administration, leadership, policy, and finance.
  • Gain Leadership and Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and management skills through coursework, workshops, or professional development programs. These skills are essential for effectively leading teams, making strategic decisions, and managing complex healthcare organizations.
  • Obtain Professional Certification (Optional): Consider pursuing professional certifications to enhance your credibility and demonstrate your expertise (see below).
  • Network and Professional Associations: Join professional associations, such as the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), or Medical Group Management Association (MGMA). Attend conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with industry professionals, stay updated on industry trends, and gain insights into career opportunities.
  • Job Search and Application: Begin your job search by exploring job boards, healthcare organization websites, and professional networks. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills, education, and experiences. Be prepared for interviews by researching the organization and industry, and showcasing your knowledge and passion for healthcare administration.
  • Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Healthcare administration is a dynamic field that requires staying updated on industry trends, regulations, and best practices. Stay engaged in continuous learning through professional development opportunities, webinars, and industry publications to enhance your knowledge and skills throughout your career.

Certifications
Here are some of the most prominent certifications for healthcare administrators:

  • Certified Healthcare Executive (CHE): Offered by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), the CHE certification is widely recognized and considered a standard for healthcare administrators. It demonstrates proficiency in leadership, strategic management, healthcare finance, and other core areas of healthcare administration.
  • Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM): This certification, offered by the American Hospital Association Certification Center (AHA-CC), is designed for healthcare administrators who specialize in risk management. It validates knowledge and expertise in identifying, assessing, and managing risks within healthcare organizations.
  • Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE): Administered by the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE), this certification is specifically tailored for healthcare administrators in medical group practices. It assesses competency in areas such as operations management, financial management, human resources, and regulatory compliance.
  • Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS): The CPHIMS certification, provided by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), is designed for healthcare administrators specializing in health information technology and systems. It demonstrates expertise in areas such as electronic health records, health informatics, privacy, and data management.
  • Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP): Offered by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), the CHFP certification focuses on financial management in healthcare. It validates skills in healthcare finance, accounting principles, revenue cycle management, and budgeting.
  • Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ): The CPHQ certification, offered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ), is aimed at healthcare administrators focusing on quality improvement and patient safety. It demonstrates knowledge and competence in quality management principles, performance measurement, and patient-centered care.