Certified
Professional in
Healthcare
Risk Management
CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
AND APPLICATION
Conducted by the American Hospital Association Certification Center
Effective June 2017
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
For questions regarding the certification
programs, contact:
For questions regarding the examination application and
administration, contact:
AHA Certification Center (AHA-CC)
155 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 400
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: 312-422-3702
Fax: 312-422-4575
Email: certification@aha.org
Website: www.AHACertificationCenter.org
PSI Candidate Services
18000 W. 105
th
St.
Olathe, KS 66061-7543
Phone: 888-519-9901
Fax: 913-895-4651
Email: info@goAMP.com
Website: www.goAMP.com
CPHRM is a trademark of the AHA Certification Center, a division of the American Hospital Association.
Copyright © 2014 by the AHA Certification Center, a division of the American Hospital Association. All rights reserved. Any
unauthorized reprint, use, distribution, or commercial exploitation of this material, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. No part of
this publication may be stored, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
copying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the
author/publisher. For information, contact the AHA Certification Center at certification@aha.org.
2017 AHA Certification Center Board of Directors
Ralph C. Graham, Jr., CHFM, SASHE; Birmingham, AL, Board President
Ronald Cail, CMRP; Los Angeles, CA
James L. Frain, CHHR, SPHR, CEBS; South Bend, IN
Thomas C. Gormley, CHC; Nashville, TN
Vicki B. Haddock, CPHRM, ARM, BSN; Greenville, NC
Ali Khan, CHESP, REH; Vienna, VA
James W. Pope, public member, Holland, OH
Katherine M. Pressley, CMRP, FAHRMM; Port Angeles, WA
Dean M. Pufahl, CHFM; West Bend, WI
Shadie R. Rankhorn, Jr., CHC, CHFM, SASHE; Johnson City, TN
Deborah Rubens, CHHR, SPHR-CA, SHRM-SCP; Sacramento, CA
John Scherberger, CHESP; Spartanburg, SC
Gregory L. Terrell, CPHRM, MS, FASHRM; Austin, TX
Alison Benefico, Director of Operations, PMGs & AHA-CC; ex officio
2017 CPHRM Certification Program Committee
Vicki B. Haddock, CPHRM, ARM, BSN; Greenville, NC; Committee Chairperson
Mary Bollwage, CPHRM, BS, MSJ, Mullica, NJ
Kathleen T. Connolly, CPHRM, RN, MSEd; Charlotte, NC
Sharon M. DiRienzo, CPHRM, RN, MSN; Thornton, PA
Laurel J. Grisbach, CPHRM, RN, BSN; Glendale, CA
Gregory L. Terrell, CPHRM, MS, FASHRM; Austin, TX
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE AHA-CC……………………………………………………………………………………………………..….
Statement of Nondiscrimination………….………………………………………………………….…..
1
1
AHA-CC CERTIFICATION PROGRAM EXAMINATIONS………………………………………….…….
Testing Agency…………….……………………………………………………………………………...
1
1
CPHRM CERTIFICATION PROGRAM..………………………………………………………………….…
Definition of a Healthcare Risk Management Professional……………………………………..…..
CPHRM Eligibility Requirements……………….…………………………..………………………….…..
2
2
2
CPHRM EXAMINATION ……………………………………………….……………………………….…….
CPHRM Examination Content Outline……………………………..…………………………….….
Sample Examination Questions………………………………………………………………………..….
2
3
7
CPHRM EXAMINATION PREPARATION…………………………………………………………….….…
Review the Content.....…………………………………………………………………………......…
Complete the CPHRM Self-Assessment Examination……………………………………….…...
Use Other Study Resources………...………………………………………………………….…….
8
8
8
8
CPHRM EXAMINATION ADMINISTRATION…………..…………………………………………………….…...
Computer Administration at PSI Test Centers…………………………………………………..…..
Special Administration – Laptop or Paper-and-Pencil………………………………………….….
International Testing………………………………………………………………………………………..
Special Arrangements for Candidates with Disabilities …………………………………………...
8
8
9
9
9
ADHERING TO PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS OF CONDUCT……………………………………....
10
CPHRM EXAMINATION APPLICATION AND SCHEDULING PROCESS…………………………..…
CPHRM Examination Application Fee Schedule……………………………………………....…..
Online Application and Scheduling………………………………………………………………..…
Paper Application………………………………………………………………………………..…....
Application Processing and CPHRM Examination Scheduling…………………………………...
Rescheduling or Cancelling a CPHRM Examination……………………………………………..
11
11
11
12
12
13
ON THE DAY OF THE CPHRM EXAMINATION………………………………………………………..…
Failing to Report for the CPHRM Examination…………………………………………………..…
Reporting for the CPHRM Examination……………………………………………………………..
On-site Security…..………………………………………………………………………………………..
Identity Verification………..……………………………………………………………………………….
Use of Calculators………..………………………………………………………………………………..
Inclement Weather or Emergency…………………………………………………………...……....
13
13
13
14
14
14
14
TAKING THE CPHRM EXAMINATION……………………………………………….…………………..…
Rules for CPHRM Examination………………………………………………………………….......
Copyrighted CPHRM Examination Questions…………………………………………………..….
15
16
16
FOLLOWING THE CPHRM EXAMINATION……………………………………………………………..…
CPHRM Examination Score Reports…………………………………………………………..…..
Passing the CPHRM Examination……………………………………………………………….….
Failing the CPHRM Examination….………………………………………………………..…….....
CPHRM Examination Scores Canceled by the AHA-CC…………………………………...…….
CPHRM Examination Score Confidentiality……………………………………………………..…
Administrative Matters……………………………………………………………………………......
17
17
17
18
18
18
18
RENEWAL OF CPHRM CERTIFICATION………………………………………………………………..…
Failing to Renew CPHRM Certification………………………………………………………….….
19
19
APPEALS………………………………………………………………………………………………….…....
20
CPHRM EXAMINATION APPLICATION………………………………………………………………………....
22
REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXAMINATION ACCOMMODATIONS FORM……………………………...
24
DOCUMENTATION OF DISABILITY-RELATED NEEDS…………………………………………..…....
25
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 1
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 2
This Candidate Handbook provides information about the Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk
Management (CPHRM) program, including the exam administration policy and process as well as
the CPHRM Examination Application. Keep this Candidate Handbook until after the CPHRM
Examination is completed. Additional copies of this Candidate Handbook may be obtained by
downloading a copy from www.AHACertificationCenter.org. The most current version of the
Candidate Handbook is posted here and supersedes any other version.
The American Hospital Association Certification Center (AHA-CC) is a division of the American Hospital
Association (AHA). Its mission is to create, facilitate and administer the healthcare industry’s premier
certification programs.
The AHA-CC Board of Directors is charged with governance of Certification Programs conducted by the
AHA-CC. Board members are appointed to represent AHA’s professional Certification Program stakeholders.
Each Certification Program in development or operation with the AHA-CC has a Certification Program
Committee that serves as content expert, program resource, and consultant to the AHA-CC regarding program
development, CPHRM Examination content, test development, test administration and evaluation. Members
are appointed by the AHA-CC Board of Directors.
Statement of Nondiscrimination
The AHA-CC does not discriminate among candidates on the basis of age, gender, race, color, religion,
national origin, disability or marital status.
The AHA-CC conducts certification examinations for programs in the following fields of health care:
Facility Managers
Constructors
Environmental Services
Human Resources
Materials and Resource Management
Risk Management
The AHA-CC also provides contracted project management and quality assurance services to the American
Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) in support of its certification programs for nurse executives and
nurse managers.
Each certification examination is designed to test a well-defined body of knowledge representative of
professional practice in the discipline. Successful completion of a certification examination is an indicator of
broad-based knowledge in the discipline being tested. Certification examinations conducted by the AHA-CC
are independent of each other. Each leads to a certification credential in a healthcare discipline.
Content of each examination was defined by a national role delineation study. The study involved surveying
practitioners in the field to identify tasks that are performed routinely and considered important to competent
practice. Each edition of a certification examination is developed through a combined effort of qualified subject
matter experts and testing professionals, who construct the examination in accordance with the Examination
Content Outline.
Testing Agency
The AHA-CC contracts with PSI Services to assist in the development,
administration, scoring, score
reporting and analysis of its CPHRM Examination.
THE AHA-CC
AHA-CC CERTIFICATION PROGRAM EXAMINATIONS
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 3
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
CPHRM CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
The CPHRM certification program promotes healthcare risk management
through certification of qualified
individuals and the following program elements:
Recognizing formally those individuals who meet the eligibility requirements of the AHA-CC and pass
the CPHRM Examination
Requiring certification renewal through continued personal and professional growth in the practice of
healthcare risk management
Providing a national standard of requisite knowledge required for certification; thereby assisting
employers, the public and members of health professions in assessing healthcare risk managers
Definition of a Healthcare Risk Management Professional
The Healthcare Risk Management Professional’s primary duties include the prevention, reduction, and control
of loss to the healthcare organization, its patients, visitors, volunteers, physicians, other healthcare
professionals and employees. Regardless of the healthcare delivery system in which the individual works, the
Healthcare Risk Management Professional interfaces with a number of healthcare professionals in the
accomplishment of these objectives. Duties may include incident investigation and analysis, tracking, trending
and evaluation, risk financing and claims management.
CPHRM Eligibility Requirements
Candidates meeting the CPHRM eligibility requirements fully and passing the CPHRM Examination attain the
CPHRM designation. The AHA-CC reserves the right, but is not obligated, to verify the accuracy of eligibility
information supplied by or on behalf of a candidate.
To be eligible for the Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM) Examination, a
candidate must fulfill one (1) of the following requirements for education/healthcare experience and meet the
requirement for risk management experience.
Education/Healthcare Experience
•
Baccalaureate degree or higher from an accredited college or university plus five (5) years of
experience in a healthcare setting or with a provider of services to the healthcare industry
•
Associate degree or equivalent from an accredited college plus seven (7) years of experience in a
healthcare setting or with a provider of services to the healthcare industry.
•
High school diploma or equivalent plus nine (9) years of experience in a healthcare setting or with a
provider of services to the healthcare industry.
Risk Management Experience
•
3,000 hours or 50 percent of full-time job duties within the last three years dedicated to healthcare risk
management in a healthcare setting or with a provider of services (e.g. consultant, broker, or attorney) to
the healthcare industry.
The CPHRM Examination is structured as follows:
Composed of 110 multiple-choice questions. A candidate’s score is based on 100 of these questions. Ten
(10) items are “trial” or “pretest” questions that are interspersed throughout the Examination and are not
scored.
A candidate is allowed two (2) hours in which to complete the CPHRM Examination.
The CPHRM Examination is based on the five (5) major content areas listed in the Content Outline.
-
Each content area is further defined in the Content Outline by a list of tasks representative of
that job responsibility.
-
The number of CPHRM Examination questions devoted to each major content area is included
in the Content Outline.
CPHRM EXAMINATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Generally, the Examination questions are categorized by the following cognitive levels:
-
Recall: The ability to recall or recognize specific information
-
Application: The ability to comprehend, relate or apply knowledge to new or changing situations
-
Analysis: The ability to analyze and synthesize information, determine solutions and/or evaluate
the usefulness of a solution
CPHRM Examination Content Outline
For the CPHRM Examination Content Outline for the current CPHRM Examination, refer to the following
pages.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 5
American Hospital Association Certification Center
Certified Professional Healthcare Risk Management Certification Examination Content Outline
1.
Clinical/Patient Safety: 35 items (Recall: 7, Application: 10, Analysis: 18)
A. Assess the current state of patient safety and staff awareness within the organization.
B.
Collaborate on proactive patient safety initiatives (e.g., FMEA, RCA, Safety Culture/Just Culture).
C.
Design, implement, and maintain educational programs on risk management and
patient safety related topics.
D.
Promote a culture of patient safety through education, policy development, and standardization of
processes.
E.
Educate providers, staff, employees, patients and families on the role of patients and families in
improving patient safety and reducing risk.
F.
Coach physicians, leaders, managers, and staff on appropriate disclosure methods and processes.
G.
Participate in critical incident debriefing.
H.
Participate in the development of corrective action plans and supervise follow-up of recommended
improvements stemming from risk assessments, audits and investigations (e.g., sentinel events,
reported events/incidents, FMEA and Root Cause Analysis).
I.
Provide guidance to staff regarding a:
1)
disruptive patient.
2)
verbally disruptive family member.
J.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
written incidents reports.
K.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
patient complaints and/or satisfaction surveys.
L.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
clinical indicators.
2.
Risk Financing: 10 items (Recall: 2, Application: 6, Analysis: 2)
A. Assist General Counsel with administration of all aspects of the Self-Insured Retention (SIR) program.
B. Implement a program for control of contractual risk by recommending/implementing modifications to
address identified risks.
C. Oversee the investigation of accidents or circumstances that could lead to financial loss (e.g.,
professional, institutional, general liability, and product liability).
D. Participate in due diligence/research potential liability assessment for new services or delivery models,
acquisitions or construction (e.g., line of service, new products in the delivery of care).
E. Assess liability and probability of legal action resulting from adverse events, complaints, and
regulatory actions.
F. Analyze professional liability historical loss experience.
G. Develop comprehensive risk financing strategies to address the organization's areas of exposure (e.g.,
general liability (GL), professional liability (PL), privacy and security liability).
H. Respond to risk management concerns about insurance coverage from organization personnel and
staff members.
3.
Legal and Regulatory: 24 items (Recall: 5, Application: 14, Analysis: 5)
A. Promote compliance with state-specific legislation through policy development, guidance, or education.
B. Promote compliance with federal and state laws and regulations governing patient confidentiality
through policy development, guidance, or education including protected health information (PHI).
C
Promote compliance with state reporting requirements through policy development, guidance, or
education (e.g., abuse of vulnerable populations).
D.
Promote compliance with state reporting requirements governing violence in the workplace through
policy development, guidance, or education.
E.
Educate staff on regulatory issues related to risk management.
F.
Promote compliance with state regulations regarding the investigation and resolution of patient
complaints or grievances through policy development, guidance, or education.
G.
Collaborate with other departments by preparing and conducting quality and/or risk assessments to
maintain a constant state of accreditation readiness.
H.
Promote compliance with regulations governing involuntary detention of patients through policy
development, guidance, or education.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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American Hospital Association Certification Center
Certified Professional Healthcare Risk Management Certification Examination Content Outline
I.
Manage a vendor liability program to catalog evidence of vendor licensure, required insurance limits,
permits, etc.
J.
Promote compliance with state agencies governing the reporting of specific events through policy
development, guidance, or education.
K.
Promote compliance with the requirements of the following federal acts/regulations through policy
development, guidance, or education:
1)
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
2)
Anti-Kickback Statute.
3)
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
4)
Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA/COBRA).
5)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
6)
Health Care Quality Improvement Act (HCQIA).
7)
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
8)
National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB).
9)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
10)
Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA).
11)
Safe Medical Device Act (SMDA).
12)
Stark Law.
L.
Provide guidance to staff regarding:
1)
consent for care.
2)
false identification provided by a patient.
3)
illegal drugs in the patient’s possession.
M.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of:
1)
device reporting and tracking logs.
2)
recall notices.
3)
regulatory inquiries.
N.
Ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and mechanisms exist to reflect current practice and are
routinely updated to reflect relevant legislation and regulations.
O.
Provide ongoing consultation to other departments to promote compliance with accreditation standards.
P.
Collaborate in the development of the organization's regulatory compliance plan.
Q.
Promote compliance with The Joint Commission (TJC) Sentinel Event reporting requirements.
R.
Promote compliance with private accrediting organizations.
S.
Assure compliance with The Joint Commission (TJC) Patient Safety Standards.
T.
Develop and implement policies in response to regulatory mandates from The Joint Commission (TJC).
U.
Maintain awareness of patient safety activities occurring locally and nationally (e.g., The Joint
Commission (TJC), Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), National Quality Forum (NQF)).
V.
Advise on questions related to patient self-determination and advance directives.
W.
Ensure HIPAA compliant business partner agreements are in place and current for all insurers,
attorneys and others involved in the claims process that will have access to PHI.
X.
Ensure processes and programs are in place (e.g., Advance Directives, cultural sensitivity, organ
donation).
Y.
Provide risk management consultation for specific ethical dilemmas (cases).
Z.
Provide education/in-service for staff, patients, families, communities on patient's rights (e.g., end of
life decisions).
AA. Ensure organizational compliance with disclosure of unanticipated outcomes.
BB. Ensure programs that address provider and staff behavioral issues are culturally, legally and
psychologically sound and non-discriminatory.
CC.Develop responses to inquiries from regulatory and licensing agencies.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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American Hospital Association Certification Center
Certified Professional Healthcare Risk Management Certification Examination Content Outline
4. Healthcare Operations: 26 items (Recall: 5, Application: 16, Analysis: 5)
A.
Ensure that processes are in place for compliance with federal and state community initiatives for
emergency preparedness and business continuity including natural, man-made, and biologic
disaster readiness.
B.
Provide guidance to staff regarding a physically disruptive family member.
C.
Conduct risk assessments to identify exposures related to new and existing services.
D.
Collaborate with public relations in the preparation of responses to the media/external inquiries
regarding incidents/occurrences.
E.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of:
1)
security reports.
2)
general liability incidents (e.g., sexual misconduct by or against staff, patients).
F.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
referrals by staff, committees, departments, other facilities.
G.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
medical record requests.
H.
Develop and maintain communications and relationships across the continuum of care.
I.
Communicate with key committees, including the governing body.
J.
Promote appropriate procedures for retention, access, and destruction of medical records and other
key business records.
K.
Supervise risk management staff.
L.
Conduct risk assessments to identify exposures related to enterprise-wide services.
M.
Develop/maintain department policies and procedures and modify as required.
N.
Prepare risk management department budgets.
O.
Develop enterprise risk management philosophy including the organizational response to errors.
P.
Coordinate enterprise risk management activities for the institution/committees.
Q.
Develop annual institutional goals for enterprise risk management program/department.
R.
Train risk management staff.
S.
Develop enterprise risk management plan for institution.
T.
Evaluate the effectiveness of risk management activities.
U.
Develop policies and procedures for acceptance of legal documents (e.g., summons, complaints,
subpoenas, court orders).
V.
Support patient safety committee meetings by collecting and formulating relevant information to
facilitate decision-making process.
W.
Participate in professional association activities.
X.
Assess enterprise risk management plan for effectiveness on an annual basis.
Y.
Develop statistical and qualitative enterprise risk management reports.
Z.
Analyze information technology liability risk exposure (e.g., risk assessment, general IT control
audits/reviews).
5.
Claims and Litigation: 5 items (Recall: 2, Application: 3, Analysis: 0)
A.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
reports of Potential Compensatory Events (PCEs).
B.
Design a management data collection and analysis system and timely reporting including elements of
open and closed claims and loss runs.
C.
Notify carriers and/or claims and litigation department of potential or actual claims.
D.
Participate in claims management activities (e.g., setting loss reserves, discovery
requests/interrogatories, preparation for trials, evidence/record preservation and management).
E.
Ensure that administration is kept informed of high exposure cases and aggregate claims
experience, including its impact on the risk financing program.
F.
Secure and evaluate all pertinent medical, billing, and other records related to individual liability claims.
G.
Ensure chain-of-custody for all potential evidence related to individual liability claims.
H.
Ensure legal case files are maintained in such a way to protect discoverability.
I.
Manage the response to service of process and notify appropriate parties of such service.
.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Sample Examination Questions
1.
Which of the following is NOT a valid reason for
selecting a particular defense attorney or firm?
A.
referral from the hospital’s Board of Directors
B.
the firm’s track record in medical
malpractice litigation
C.
the degree of responsiveness to, and cooperation
with, the healthcare organization’s Risk Manager
D.
the firm’s compliance with procedural requirements
included in the insured’s “defense attorney
guidelines”
2.
What type of primary malpractice insurance policy is
necessary to purchase “tail”/prior acts coverage
when changing carriers?
A.
excess
B.
umbrella
C.
occurrence
D.
claims made
3.
Which insurance coverage is designed to protect
individuals serving in a governance role from liability
claims arising out of errors in judgment, breach of
duty, and other wrongful acts?
A.
crime
B.
fiduciary
C.
directors’ and officers’
D.
Workers’ Compensation
4.
Which of the following should be considered
when establishing a risk management budget?
1
salaries
2
office supplies
3
job description
4
indemnity/expense
A.
1, 2, and 3 only
B.
1, 2, and 4 only
C.
1, 3, and 4 only
D.
2, 3, and 4 only
5.
Which of the following would NOT be considered a
sentinel event?
A.
suicide
B.
patient rape
C.
infant abduction
D.
medical record alteration
6.
A Risk Manager receives interrogatories that
include several questions to which he/she intends
to ask the defense counsel to object. Which of the
following objections, while appropriate, must be
accompanied by detailed reasons?
A.
The interrogatory is inapplicable to the instant
case.
B.
The interrogatory is unduly burdensome
and time consuming.
C.
The information sought is in the possession
of the party requesting it.
D.
The information sought is a matter of public
record and equally applicable to both parties.
7.
A systematic approach to ethics consultation and
decision making will help ensure that risk
management goals and ethical principles are
served. A systematic approach includes all of the
following EXCEPT
A.
verification of the facts.
B.
unanimous agreement among participants.
C.
documentation of the rationale for the decision.
D.
identification of the potential legal and
ethical problems.
8.
Which of the following is required as part of the
sentinel event process of The Joint Commission?
A.
fish bone diagram of the causal factors
B.
pareto chart outlining the problems identified
C.
action plan listing the steps for improvement
D.
flowchart listing the responsibility of each
of the departments involved
9.
The Safe Medical Device Act requires that a device
related death be reported to the
A.
Food and Drug Administration.
B.
Office of Management and Budget.
C.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
D.
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration.
10.
Which of the following is a notice to the
defendants named in a complaint indicating that
an action has been filed against them, and that
they are required to answer on a specified date
and at a specified place?
A.
subpoena
B.
summons
C.
court order
D.
notice of intent
ANSWER KEY
1. A
6. B
2. D
7. B
3. C
8. C
4. B
9. A
5. D
10. B
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 9
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
The method of preparation and amount of time spent preparing for the AHA-CC certification Examinations can
be driven by the candidate’s preferred study style, level of professional experience or academic background.
Some methods of preparation may include but are not limited to the following methods.
Review the Content
Candidates who have passed the AHA-CC certification examinations report that study should begin by
reviewing the Examination Content Outline. Review the content categories and related tasks. Identify and
focus review on tasks that you do not perform regularly or with which you are not familiar. Remember that all
questions in the CPHRM Examination are job-related/experience-based and test the application and analysis
of information, not just the recollection of isolated facts.
Complete the CPHRM Self-Assessment Examination (SAE)
A Self-Assessment Examination (SAE) for the CPHRM Examination is an online tool created by the AHA-CC to
simulate the CPHRM Examination. This tool is available for purchase at www.AHACertificationCenter.org.
The 100-question online practice test was developed using the same procedures as the CPHRM Examination,
and conforms to CPHRM Examination specifications in content, cognitive levels, format and difficulty.
Feedback reports from the SAE provide an opportunity to evaluate and remedy less-than-desirable
performance before taking the CPHRM Examination. The questions presented in the SAE are different from
the questions contained on the CPHRM certification Examination. Performance on the CPHRM SAE is not
necessarily an indicator of performance on the CPHRM certification Examination.
Use Other Study Resources
The AHA-CC recommends that review for the CPHRM Examination focus on references and programs that
cover the information summarized in the CPHRM Examination Content Outline. It should not be inferred that
questions in the CPHRM Examination are selected from any single reference or set of references, or that study
from specific references guarantees a passing score on the CPHRM Examination. For information about
references, study guides and review sessions offered by the American Society for Healthcare Risk
Management (ASHRM), visit www.ashrm.org.
The CPHRM Examination is administered in the following ways:
On computers at PSI Test Centers
During special administrations at conferences, meetings or other specially-arranged sessions
Outside of the U.S. on request
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), special arrangements can be made for
candidates with a disability.
Computer Administration at PSI Test Centers
The primary mode of delivery of the CPHRM Examination is via computer at over 190 PSI Test
Centers
geographically distributed throughout the United States and typically located in H&R Block offices. For
PSI Test
Center locations, detailed maps and directions, go to www.AHACertificationCenter.org, click
on “CPHRM” and
then on “Testing Centers.”
For computer administrations at PSI Test Centers, a candidate who meets eligibility requirements for
the
CPHRM Examination may submit an application and fee at any time. A candidate must make an
appointment
to take the CPHRM Examination within ninety (90) days from confirmation of eligibility from PSI.
The CPHRM
Examination is administered by appointment only Monday through Saturday at 9:00 a.m. and
1:30 p.m., with
the exception of some holidays. Candidates are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
CPHRM EXAMINATION PREPARATION
CPHRM EXAMINATION ADMINISTRATION
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 10
If PSI is contacted by 3:00 p.m.
CST Time on...
Depending upon availability, the examination
may be scheduled as early as…
Monday
Wednesday
Tuesday
Thursday
Wednesday
Friday/Saturday
Thursday
Monday
Friday
Tuesday
The CPHRM Examination is not offered on the following holidays.
New Year’s Day
Independence Day (July 4)
Christmas Eve Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Labor Day
Christmas Day
Memorial Day
Thanksgiving Day and the
following Friday
Special Administration – Laptop or Paper-and-Pencil
The CPHRM Examination may be offered on laptop or in paper-and-pencil format during conferences or
meetings. A candidate who meets the CPHRM eligibility requirements and submits a CPHRM Examination
application and fee for receipt by the posted deadline is allowed to take the CPHRM Examination. Online
application is not available for special administrations. Dates of special administrations and deadlines for
receipt of applications are posted on www.AHACertificationCenter.org. For the Special Administration
application, go to www.goAMP.com.
International Testing
Candidates who are eligible for the CPHRM Examination and wish to take the CPHRM Examination outside of
the U.S. may email AMPIntlExam[email protected]m for more information or to begin the international
scheduling process.
Special Arrangements for Candidates with Disabilities
The AHA-CC complies with applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and strives to
ensure that no individual with a disability is deprived of the opportunity to take the CPHRM Examination solely
by reason of that disability. Through its agents, the AHA-CC will provide reasonable accommodation for a
candidate with a disability who requests accommodation by completing and timely submitting the two-page
Request for
Special Examination Accommodations form included in this Candidate Handbook to PSI.
Wheelchair access is available at all PSI Test Centers. Candidates must advise PSI at the time of scheduling that
wheelchair access is necessary.
A candidate with a visual, sensory or physical disability that prevents taking the CPHRM Examination under
standard conditions may request special accommodations and arrangements. For either a computer or a
special administration of a CPHRM Examination, complete the two-page Request for Special Examination
Accommodations form included in this Candidate Handbook and submit it with a CPHRM Examination
application and fee at least 45 days prior to the CPHRM Examination date desired.
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 11
The AHA-CC is responsible to its candidates, certificants, employers, the profession and the public for
ensuring the integrity of all processes and products of its Certification Programs. As such, the AHA-CC
requires adherence to these Professional Standards of Conduct by all who have achieved certification through
successful completion of its programs. A candidate’s signature on the CPHRM Examination Application attests
to ongoing agreement to adhere to the following Professional Standards of Conduct.
Professional Standards of Conduct. A certificant who is awarded certification by the AHA-CC agrees to
conduct himself/herself in an ethical and professional manner. This includes demonstrating practice-related
behavior that is indicative of professional integrity. By accepting certification, the certificant agrees to the
following:
Maintain professional competence
Demonstrate work behavior that exemplifies ability to perform safely, competently and with good
judgment
Conduct professional activities with honesty and integrity
Avoid discriminating against any individual based on age, gender, race, color, religion, national origin,
disability or marital status
Avoid conflicts of interest
Abide by the laws, rules and regulations of duly authorized agencies regulating the profession
Abide by rules and regulations governing programs conducted by the AHA Certification Center
Not to misrepresent the credential and to adhere to the Guidelines for Use of the Certification Marks as
posted on the AHA-CC website.
Infraction of the Professional Standards of Conduct is misconduct for which granting of a certification or
renewal of a certification may be delayed or denied, or for which a certification may be revoked by the AHA
Certification Center.
Reporting Violations. To protect the national credentials and to ensure responsible practice by its certificants,
the AHA-CC depends upon its candidates and certificants, professionals, employers, regulatory agencies and
the public to report incidents that may be in violation of these Professional Standards of Conduct. A certificant
who has violated these Standards should voluntarily surrender his/her certification.
Written reports of infraction of these Standards may be sent to: AHA Certification Center, 155 N. Wacker Drive,
Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60606. Only signed, written communication will be considered.
The AHA-CC will become involved only in matters that can be factually determined, and commits to handling
any situation as fairly and expeditiously as possible. During its investigation and decision, the AHA Certification
Center will protect the confidentiality of those who provide information to every possible extent. The named
individual will be afforded a reasonable opportunity to respond in a professional and legally defensible manner,
in accordance with policies established by the AHA-CC.
ADHERING TO PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
CPHRM EXAMINATION APPLICATION AND SCHEDULING PROCESS
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 12
CPHRM Examination Application Fee Schedule
After fulfilling the CPHRM eligibility requirements, a candidate may apply to PSI for the CPHRM Examination
in
one of the following ways.
Online Application (available at www.goAMP.com; requires credit card payment for fees.)
Paper Application (included in this Candidate Handbook)
Documentation of eligibility does not need to be submitted with a CPHRM Examination Application. The
AHA-CC reserves the right, but is not obligated, to verify the accuracy of information supplied by or on behalf of
a candidate. If selected for an audit, the candidate may be asked to submit documentation as proof of meeting
the eligibility requirements.
To apply for the CPHRM Examination, an eligible candidate must submit the appropriate fee (see below) with a
complete CPHRM Examination Application to PSI.
Member of ASHRM or other AHA Personal Membership Group….
$275
Nonmember……………………………………………………………...
$425
Payment may be made by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover) or by
company check, cashier’s check or money order made payable to PSI Services. Cash and personal
checks are
not accepted.
Examination-related fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
Up to two (2) business days prior to a scheduled administration, the application may be transferred to a
future CPHRM Examination date by requesting PSI to reschedule a new date. The examination date
may be rescheduled once without incurring an additional fee. This date must be within your original 90
days eligibility window of PSI
confirming receipt of your CPHRM Examination application. Each additional
rescheduling of a CPHRM
examination date is subject to a $100 rescheduling fee.
Credit card transactions that are declined are subject to a $25 handling fee. A certified check or money
order for the amount due, including the handling fee, must be submitted to PSI to cover declined credit
card transaction.
Candidates who fail a CPHRM Examination and apply to retake the CPHRM Examination must pay the
full CPHRM Examination fee as listed above.
Online Application and Scheduling
For computer administrations at PSI Test Centers only
Complete the CPHRM Examination application and scheduling process in one online session. Visit
http://www.AHACertificationCenter.org, click on “CPHRM,” click on “Online Application and Scheduling”, and
then follow the online instructions.
If you are a current member of an AHA Personal Membership Group (PMG), you are eligible for the reduced
AHA member rate for CPHRM Examination fee. Click on “Member,” and enter your membership number, name
and address exactly as they appear in AHA’s membership database. Your preferred mailing and email
addresses designated in AHA’s membership database are used for all
records and communications. For
information on your membership record, please contact ASHRM at
312-422-3980 or AHA’s Member
Services Center at 312-422-2765. **NEW MEMBERS must wait at least five business days after new
membership to apply online. If the membership number is not accepted, you may submit the paper
application to receive the membership discount.
After completing the CPHRM Examination application and submitting credit card payment information (VISA,
MasterCard, American Express, Discover), PSI confirms the candidate’s certification of eligibility, and
the
candidate is prompted to schedule a CPHRM Examination appointment or supply additional eligibility
information. The candidate must schedule a CPHRM Examination date within the assigned 90 day eligibility
window.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Paper Application
For all administrations
Complete and submit to PSI a CPHRM Examination application with the appropriate fee. You may complete
the two-page paper application included in this Candidate Handbook or obtained by one of the following ways:
Downloading copy from www.AHACertificationCenter.org
Contacting PSI at 888-519-9901
A written request must be submitted for an incomplete online CMRP Examination Application fee to be
returned to the candidate (less a $50 processing fee). For eligibility, a CPHRM Examination application
requires::
Information provided is legible and accurate.
All of the following required information is provided:
-
Personal Information
-
Examination Type. For the application for a specific special administration, go to
www.goAMP.com.
-
Application Status
-
Membership Status. Eligibility for the Member rate of the CPHRM Examination Application fee
requires recording your membership number, name, and address exactly as they appear in AHA’s
membership database. For information on your member record, contact ASHRM at 312-422-3980
or AHA’s Member Service Center at 312-422-2765.
-
Method of payment for the applicable fee
-
Demographic information
-
Signature
The candidate is eligible for the CPHRM Examination and can provide evidence if requested to do so.
Appropriate fee accompanies the application (credit card, company check, cashier’s check or money
order).
If you are an AHA Personal Membership Group (PMG) member, you must provide your member number to
PSI.
If special accommodations are required, complete and submit to PSI the two-page Request for Special
Examination
Accommodations form included in this Candidate Handbook and submit with the CPHRM
Examination
application and fee to PSI at least 45 days prior to the desired testing date.
Application Processing and CPHRM Examination Scheduling
Generally, in about two (2) weeks of PSI
receiving the application, PSI processes it, confirms the candidate’s
certification of eligibility, and sends an
email and postcard confirmation notice with a toll-free phone number
and website address at which a testing
appointment can be scheduled. For special administrations,
approximately ten (10) business days after PSI’s receipt of application, a notice
is sent by email to the
candidate stating the application has been received and approved. If the application is
ineligible, a letter will
be sent to the candidate listing the deficiency. Generally, candidates receive their
admission letter to the
testing about two (2) to three (3) weeks prior to the CPHRM special administration date.
The notice includes
the date, location and check-in time for the CPHRM Examination. If a confirmation notice is not received
within four (4) weeks of mailing
your application, contact PSI at 888-519-9901.
When scheduling a CPHRM Examination at a PSI Test Center, be prepared to provide your assigned
identification number and confirm a location
and a preferred date and time for testing.
For a computer administration at a PSI Test Center, a candidate’s application is valid for 90 days
from the
date of eligibility. The candidate must schedule an appointment and take
the CPHRM Examination within this
90-day period. A candidate who fails to schedule an appointment within
the 90-day period forfeits the
application and all fees paid to take the CPHRM Examination. A complete
application and full examination
fee are required to reapply for CPHRM Examination.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
A candidate is allowed to take only the CPHRM Examination for which application is made and confirmation
from PSI is received. Unscheduled candidates (walk-ins) are not allowed to take the CPHRM Examination.
Rescheduling a CPHRM Examination
Although CPHRM Examination application fees are nonrefundable, a candidate who is unable to take the
CPHRM Examination has the following options to reschedule a CPHRM Examination:
A candidate may reschedule the CPHRM Examination once at no charge online at
www.goAMP.com or by calling PSI at
888-519-9901 at least two (2) business days prior to a
scheduled administration date. The CPHRM Examination must be rescheduled within your original
ninety (90) day eligibility window.
A candidate may reschedule a second or additional time by submitting to PSI a written request
including their name, address, identification number and the $100 rescheduling fee. A new CPHRM
Examination application is not required. The CPHRM Examination must be rescheduled within 90 days
of the originally scheduled CPHRM Examination date. For payment by credit card, the credit card
number, expiration date and 3-digit security code must be included.
A candidate who wants to reschedule a CPHRM Examination or cancel the examination after the 90-
day period forfeits the application
and all fees paid to take the exam. A new, complete application and
full exam fee are
required to reapply for the CPHRM Examination.
Reporting for the CPHRM Examination
Bring with you the confirmation notice provided by PSI. It contains the unique identification number required
to
take the test and is required for admission to the testing room.
For a computer administration, report to the PSI Test Center no later than the scheduled testing
time. After
entering the H&R Block office, for some locations, follow the signs indicating PSI Test Center Check-In.
For a special administration (laptop or paper-and-pencil), report to the designated testing room at the time
indicated on the confirmation notice. The CPHRM Examination will begin after all scheduled candidates are
checked-in and seated and no more than one hour after the scheduled registration begins. Follow the signs
provided in the hotel/convention center to locate the testing room.
Failing to Report for the CPHRM Examination
A candidate who arrives more than fifteen (15) minutes after the scheduled testing time is not admitted.
A candidate who is not admitted due to late arrival must reschedule the CPHRM Examination for a new
date that is within ninety (90) days from the originally scheduled testing date and remit the $100
rescheduling fee. To schedule a new appointment for the exam, the candidate must submit to PSI a
written request including their name, address, identification number and rescheduling fee. For payment
by credit card, the credit card number, expiration date and 3-digit security code must be included. A new
examination application is not required.
A candidate who does not reschedule a CPHRM Examination session that is within the ninety (90)-day
period forfeits the application and all fees paid to take the exam. A complete application and full exam fee
are required to reapply for the exam.
On-site Security
The AHA-CC and PSI maintain CPHRM Examination administration and security standards that are designed to
assure that all candidates are provided the same opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. The testing
environment at PSI Test Centers is continuously monitored by audio and video surveillance equipment
or
CPHRM Examination personnel. Candidates may be subjected to a metal detection scan upon entering the
examination room.
ON THE DAY OF THE CPHRM EXAMINATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
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CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Examples of valid primary forms of identification are current driver’s license with photograph, current state
identification card with photograph, current passport, or current military identification card with photograph.
The secondary form of identification must display the candidate’s name and signature for the candidate’s
signature verification. (e.g., credit card with signature, social security card with signature,
employment/student ID card with signature, etc.)
If the candidate’s name on the registration list is different than it appears on the forms of identification, the
candidate must bring proof of the name change (e.g., marriage license, divorce decree, or court order).
No form of temporary identification will be accepted.
Use of Calculators
Some CPHRM Examination questions may require calculations. Use of a silent, nonprogrammable calculator
without paper tape-printing capability or alpha keypad is permitted during the CPHRM Examination. Use of a
computer or a cell phone is not permitted. Calculators will be checked for conformance with this regulation
before candidates are allowed admission to the PSI Test Center or testing room. Calculators that do
not
comply with to these specifications are not permitted in the PSIT Test Center or testing room.
Inclement Weather or Emergency
In the event of inclement weather or unforeseen emergencies on the day of the CPHRM Examination, the AHA-CC,
in concert with PSI, will determine whether circumstances warrant the cancellation and subsequent rescheduling of
a CPHRM Examination. If testing personnel are able to conduct business, the CPHRM Examination usually
proceeds as scheduled.
Every attempt is made to administer a CPHRM Examination as scheduled; however, should a CPHRM Examination
be canceled, the scheduled candidate will receive notification following the CPHRM Examination regarding a
rescheduled CPHRM Examination date or reapplication procedures. In the case of cancellation, no additional fee is
required to take the CPHRM Examination.
For computer administrations at PSI Test Centers, candidates may visit www.goAMP.com prior to the CPHRM
Examination to determine if any PSI Test Centers have been closed.
In the event of a personal emergency on the day of the CPHRM Examination, a candidate may request consideration
of rescheduling the CPHRM Examination without additional fee by contacting the AHA-CC in writing within 30 days of
the scheduled testing session. A description of the emergency and supporting documentation are required.
Rescheduling without additional fee will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Identity Verification
To gain admission to the PSI Test Center or a testing room, the candidate must present two (2) forms
of
identification. The primary form must be government issued, current, and include the candidate’s name,
signature and photograph. The candidate will also be required to sign a roster for verification of identity. A
candidate without proper identification will not be permitted to take the CPHRM Examination.
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 16
After identity of the candidate has been verified and his/her calculator has been approved, the candidate is
directed to a testing carrel for a computer administration or an assigned seat for a special administration. For
computer-based testing, including laptop administrations, each candidate is provided one sheet of scratch
paper for calculations that must be returned to the CPHRM Examination proctor at the completion of testing.
For a paper-and-pencil administration, the candidate is provided oral and written instructions about the
CPHRM Examination administration process.
For a computer administration at a PSI Test Center or a laptop administration, the candidate
is
provided instructions on-screen. First, the candidate is instructed to enter his/her unique identification
number. Then, the candidate’s photograph is taken and remains on-screen throughout the CPHRM
Examination session. Prior to attempting the CPHRM Examination, the candidate is provided a short tutorial on
using the software to take the CPHRM Examination. Tutorial time is NOT counted as part of the two (2) hours
allowed for the CPHRM Examination. Only after a candidate is comfortable with the software and choses to do
so does the CPHRM Examination begin.
The computer monitors the time spent on the CPHRM Examination. The CPHRM Examination terminates
at the two-hour mark. Clicking on the TIME button in the lower right portion of the screen reveals a digital clock
that indicates the time remaining. The TIME feature may also be turned off during the CPHRM Examination.
Only one (1) CPHRM Examination question is presented at a time. The question number appears in the
lower right portion of the screen. The entire CPHRM Examination question appears on-screen (stem and four
options labeled A, B, C and D). Select an answer either by entering the letter of the option (A, B, C or D) or
using the mouse to click on the option. The letter of the selected option appears in the window in the lower left
portion of the screen. To change an answer, enter a different option by pressing the A, B, C or D key or by
clicking on the option using the mouse. An answer may be changed multiple times.
To move to the next question, click on the forward arrow (>) in the lower right corner of the screen. This
action allows the candidate to move forward through the CPHRM Examination question by question. To review
a question or questions, click the backward arrow (<) or use the left arrow key to move backward through the
CPHRM Examination.
A CPHRM Examination question may be left unanswered for return later in the testing session.
Questions may also be bookmarked for later review by clicking in the blank square to the right of the TIME
button. Click on the hand icon to advance to the next unanswered or bookmarked question on the CPHRM
Examination. To identify all unanswered or bookmarked questions, repeatedly click on the hand icon.
When the CPHRM Examination is completed, the number of CPHRM Examination questions answered is
reported. If fewer than 110 questions were answered and time remains, return to the CPHRM Examination and
answer the remaining questions. Be sure to answer each CPHRM Examination question before ending the
CPHRM Examination. There is no penalty for guessing.
Candidates may provide comments about a test item. Comments will be reviewed, but individual
responses will not be provided.
For a computer administration, online comments may be provided for any question by clicking on the
button displaying an exclamation point (!) to the left of the TIME button. This opens a dialogue box where
comments may be entered.
For a paper-and-pencil administration, comments may be provided on the answer sheet on the day of
the CPHRM Examination.
TAKING THE CPHRM EXAMINATION
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 17
Rules for CPHRM Examination
All CPHRM Examination candidates must comply with the following rules during the CPHRM Examination
administration:
1.
No personal items (including watches, hats, and coats), valuables or weapons should be brought into the
testing room. Only keys, wallets, and items required for medical needs are permitted. Books, computers, or
other reference materials are strictly prohibited. If personal items are observed in the testing room after the
examination is started, the exam administration will be forfeited. PSI is not responsible for items left in the
reception area.
2.
Pencils will be provided during check-in. No personal writing instruments are allowed in the testing room.
3.
CPHRM Examinations are proprietary. CPHRM Examination questions may not be recorded or shared
with any individual in any manner. No cameras, notes, tape recorders, pagers, cellular/smart phones, or
other recording devices are allowed in the testing room. Possession of a cellular/smart phone or other
electronic devices is strictly prohibited and will result in dismissal from the CPHRM Examination.
4.
Eating, drinking, and smoking is not permitted in the testing room.
5.
No documents or notes of any kind may be removed from the testing room. Each CPHRM candidate will be
provided one sheet of scratch paper that must be returned to the CPHRM Examination proctor at the
completion of testing.
6.
No questions concerning the content of the CPHRM Examination may be asked of anyone during the
CPHRM Examination.
7.
Permission from the CPHRM Examination proctor is required to leave the testing room during the exam.
No additional time is granted to compensate for time lost.
8.
No guests, visitors, or family members are allowed in the testing room or reception areas.
Candidates observed engaging in any of the following conduct during the CPHRM Examination may be
dismissed from the CPHRM Examination session, their score on the CPHRM Examination voided and the
CPHRM Examination fees forfeited. Evidence of misconduct is reviewed by the Appeal Board of the AHA-CC
to determine whether the CPHRM candidate will be allowed to reapply for CPHRM Examination. If
re-examination is granted, a complete CPHRM Examination application and full CPHRM Examination fee are
required.
Gaining unauthorized admission to the CPHRM Examination
Creating a disturbance, being abusive or otherwise uncooperative
Displaying and/or using electronic communications equipment including but not limited to pagers,
cellular/smart phones, etc.
Talking or participating in conversation with other CPHRM Examination candidates
Giving or receiving help or being suspected of doing so
Leaving the PSI Test Center or testing room during the CPHRM Examination
Attempting to record CPHRM Examination questions in any manner or making notes
Attempting to take the CPHRM Examination for someone else
Having possession of personal belongings
Using notes, books, or other aids without it being noted on the roster
Attempting to remove CPHRM Examination materials or notes from the PSI Test Center or
the
testing room
Copyrighted CPHRM Examination Questions
All CPHRM Examination questions are the copyrighted property of the AHA-CC. It is forbidden under federal
copyright law to copy, reproduce, record, distribute or display these CPHRM Examination questions by any
means, in whole or in part. Doing so may result in severe civil and criminal penalties.
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 18
CPHRM Examination Score Reports
Score reports are issued by PSI, on behalf of the AHA-CC. Scores are reported in written form only, in person
or by U.S. mail. Scores are not reported over the telephone, by electronic mail or by facsimile.
A candidate who takes the CPHRM Examination in paper-and pencil format receives his/her score
report from PSI by mail generally about three (3) to five (5) weeks after the CPHRM Examination.
A candidate who takes the CPHRM Examination on a computer at a PSI Test Center or
on laptop
receives his/her score report before leaving the testing center except when the CPHRM
Examination
program is in a provisional score report mode.
The score report indicates a “Pass” or “Fail”, which is determined by the raw score on the CPHRM
Examination. The score report also includes raw scores for each of the major categories of the CPHRM
Examination Content Outline. A raw score is the number of questions answered correctly. Responses to
individual CPHRM Examination questions will not be disclosed to the candidate. Even though the CPHRM
Examination consists of 110 questions, the CPHRM Examination score is based on 100 questions. Ten (10)
questions are “pretest” questions and do not impact the candidate’s score. The minimum passing score for the
CPHRM Examination is posted on http://www.AHACertificationCenter.org/index.shtml .
Recognition of certification and information about certification renewal are issued from the AHA-CC generally
about four (4) to six (6) weeks of successfully completing the CPHRM Examination. This package is mailed to
the address contained in the AHA member database.
How the CPHRM Examination passing score is set
The methodology used to set the initial minimum passing score is the Angoff method in which expert judges
estimate the passing probability of each question on the CPHRM Examination. These ratings are averaged to
determine the preliminary minimum passing score (i.e., the number of correctly answered questions required to
pass the CPHRM Examination). This method takes into account the difficulty of the CPHRM Examination. The
preliminary minimum passing score is validated by the performance of candidates. The passing standard is
applied consistently across all candidates who take the same form of the CPHRM Examination.
When new forms of the CPHRM Examination are introduced, a certain number of CPHRM Examination
questions in the various content areas are replaced by new CPHRM Examination questions. These changes
may cause one form of the CPHRM Examination to be slightly easier or harder than another form. To adjust for
these differences in difficulty, a procedure called “equating” is used. For equated CPHRM Examinations that
have different passing scores, the equating process helps ensure that the levels of examinee knowledge are
equivalent on the various CPHRM Examination forms.
Passing the CPHRM Examination
An eligible candidate who passes the CPHRM Examination is awarded the Certified Professional in Healthcare
Risk Management (CPHRM) credential. Generally about four (4) to six (6) weeks after the candidate passes a
CPHRM Examination, the AHA-CC mails to the candidate a certificate of recognition, a pin and information
about CPHRM certification renewal requirements. The name on the certificate and the address to which the
package is mailed is based on information in the candidate’s membership record. It is the candidate’s
responsibility to keep current this information.
The AHA-CC, in concert with the personal membership group (PMG), reserves the right to recognize publicly
any candidate who has successfully completed the CPHRM Examination. Recognition is awarded so as not to
embarrass any candidate who is not successful in achieving certification.
Name, address, telephone number and email address of a candidate who passes the CPHRM Examination will
be shared with the PMG. Scores are never reported. If you do NOT wish to have your personal information
shared, please opt out by contacting the AHA-CC in writing via e-mail at certificatio[email protected] or fax at
312-422-4575.
FOLLOWING THE CPHRM EXAMINATION
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 19
Failing the CPHRM Examination
If a candidate does not pass the CPHRM Examination, the score report includes a shortened application
form
to apply for retaking the exam.
To schedule a retake of the CPHRM Examination, a candidate may apply by using the
online
application and scheduling feature on www.AHACertificationCenter.org or by
submitting the
re-application form included with the score report. To use this shortened application form, the
completed application and full CPHRM Examination fee must be submitted and a CPHRM
Examination
scheduled within the 90-day period following the failed CPHRM Examination.
A candidate who wishes to retake the CPHRM Examination after 90 days following the failed CPHRM
Examination date must submit a completed full-length application (in this CPHRM Handbook or on-line
at goAMP.com) and full examination fee.
Every retake requires
submitting a CPHRM Examination application and the full CPHRM Examination fee.
There is no limit to the number of times an individual may take the CPHRM Examination.
CPHRM Examination Scores Cancelled by the AHA-CC
The AHA-CC and PSI are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the scores reported. On occasion,
occurrences such as computer malfunction or misconduct by a candidate may cause a score to be suspect.
The AHA-CC is committed to rectifying such discrepancies as expeditiously as possible. The AHA-CC may
void CPHRM Examination results if, upon investigation, violation of CPHRM Examination regulations is
discovered.
CPHRM Examination Score Confidentiality
Information about a candidate for testing or renewal of certification and CPHRM Examination results is
considered confidential; however, the AHA-CC reserves the right to use information supplied by or on behalf
of
a candidate in the conduct of research. Studies and reports concerning candidates contain no
information
identifiable with any candidate, unless authorized by the candidate.
Demographic information about a candidate is shared only when beneficial to the candidate. Scores are
never
reported to anyone other than the candidate, unless the candidate directs such a request in writing.
Administrative Matters
Duplicate CPHRM Examination score report
Duplicate score reports are available from PSI up to one year from the testing date. The fee is $25 per copy
payable by cashier’s check or money order to PSI Services. The request must include the candidate’s name,
unique identification number, mailing address, telephone number, and date the CPHRM Examination was
completed. After receipt of the request, a duplicate score report is generally mailed within three (3) weeks.
Score verification request
Candidates who do not pass the CPHRM Examination may request a manual verification of the computer
scoring. Requests for manual scoring must be submitted to PSI in writing with a $25 hand scoring fee
(cashier’s
check or money order made payable to PSI Services) within one year following the CPHRM Examination
date.
The request must include your name, unique identification number, mailing address, CPHRM
Examination date,
and a copy of your score report. Please allow 10 business days for processing your request.
Candidates close to
passing are discouraged from a handscore request. PSI routinely samples examinations
of candidates who score
near passing to ensure correct reporting of results. These CPHRM Examinations are
automatically handscored
before results are mailed as a quality control measure. Thus, it is unlikely any
CPHRM Examination results will
change from “fail” to “pass” after a requested handscore.
Name and address change
Certificants are responsible for keeping current all contact information. The AHA-CC is not responsible for
communication not received due to incorrect contact information. To update any contact information, please
contact ASHRM at 312-422-3980 or the AHA Member Services Center at 312-422-2765.
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 20
Achieving certification is an indication of mastery of a well-defined body of knowledge at a point in time.
Periodic renewal of the certification is required to maintain certified status and to demonstrate ongoing
commitment to remain current in the field. Initial certification or renewal of CPHRM certification is valid for three
(3)
years.
Eligible candidates who successfully complete the CPHRM Examination are provided information about
certification renewal requirements in a certification package sent by the AHA-CC. The CPHRM Certification
Renewal Application may be submitted to the AHA-CC up to one (1) year prior to the expiration date.
For an additional nonrefundable fee of $50, certification renewals may be submitted up to 30 days past
the expiration date.
As a courtesy, the AHA-CC sends notices to certificants of their pending certification expiration. Certificants
are responsible for keeping their contact information accurate. The AHA-CC is not responsible for
communications not received due to incorrect contact information in a certificant’s record.
The current CPHRM Certification Renewal Application and fees are available at
www.AHACertificationCenter.org.
A certificant shall renew the CPHRM credential through one of the following two ways:
Successful re-examination. To renew this way, successfully pass the CPHRM Certification
Examination no more than one (1) year prior to expiration of your CPHRM certification (subject to usual
fees and provisions for testing). Submit to the AHA-CC the CPHRM Certification Renewal Application
and a copy of your passing CPHRM Examination score report. An additional Certification Renewal
Application fee is not required if a candidate selects this way to renew the CPHRM designation.
Completion of 45 contact hours of eligible continuing professional education over the three
(3)-year period and payment of the renewal fee. To renew this way, submit a completed CPHRM
Certification Renewal Application with the appropriate fee and report all eligible continuing professional
education activities that you completed during your renewal period. Eligible activities include attending
or teaching academic courses, completing on-line course, attending professional organization
conferences and completing AHA-CC CPHRM Self Assessment Examinations, among other activities.
Some activities have limitation on maximum allowable hours. Refer to the current CPHRM Certification
Renewal Application for a description of eligible activities and other provisions for renewing your
certification.
CPHRM Certification Renewal Application processing is generally about two (2) weeks from receipt of
application. Certificants who meet the renewal requirements receive in the mail (at the address in their
membership record) a new certificate of recognition. Certificants are afforded an opportunity to remove
deficiencies. Certificants are responsible for keeping current contact information in their membership record.
Failing to Renew CPHRM Certification
A certificant who fails to renew his or her CPHRM certification will receive written notification that he/she is no
longer considered certified and may not use the CPHRM credential in professional communications including
but not limited to letterhead, stationery, business cards, directory listings and signatures. To regain
certification, the individual must retake and pass the CPHRM Examination (subject to the usual fees and
provisions for testing).
RENEWAL OF CPHRM CERTIFICATION
CPHRM CANDIDATE HANDBOOK AND APPLICATION
APPEALS
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 21
A candidate who believes he or she was unjustly denied eligibility for CPHRM Examination, who challenges
results of a CPHRM Examination or who believes he/she was unjustly denied renewal of certification may
request reconsideration of the decision by submitting a written appeal to the AHA Certification Center, 155 N.
Wacker Drive, Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60606. The candidate for certification or renewal of certification must
provide evidence satisfactory to the Appeal Board that a severe disadvantage was afforded the candidate
during processing of an application for CPHRM Examination or renewal of CPHRM certification or prior to or
during administration of a CPHRM Examination. The appeal must be made within 45 days of receipt of a score
report or any other official correspondence related to certification or renewal of certification from the AHA-CC
or its agents. The written appeal must also indicate the specific relief requested. The appealing candidate is
required to submit a $100 fee (payable to the AHA-CC) with the written appeal. The fee will be refunded to the
candidate if deemed justified through action of the Appeal Board. For additional regulations related to the
appeal process, contact the AHA-CC.
Checklist for becoming certified
Meet the CPHRM Certification Examination Eligibility Requirements.
Prepare for the CPHRM Certification Examination.
Read the CPHRM Candidate Handbook fully. Use the CPHRM Examination Content Outline to focus
study efforts.
Apply for the CPHRM Examination by one of the following two ways:
-
Mail or fax the complete CPHRM Examination Application to PSI as directed on the form.
Include the CPHRM Examination fee, sign the application, and submit both pages of the
application. When confirmation of eligibility is received from PSI, make an appointment to take
the CPHRM Examination.
-
Apply online for the CPHRM Examination and schedule an appointment to test on computer at
a PSI Test Center. Visit www.AHACertificationCenter.org, click on “CPHRM,” “Online
Application
and Scheduling”, and then follow the online instructions.
Appear on time for the CPHRM Examination on the date and at the time and location selected. Bring
the confirmation notice provided by PSI and identification as described in the CPHRM Candidate
Handbook.
AMERICAN HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION CERTIFICATION CENTER
CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN HEALTHCARE RISK MANAGEMENT (CPHRM)
EXAMINATION APPLICATION PAGE 1 OF 2
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 22
To apply for the CPHRM Examination, complete this two-page application and return it with the examination fee to:
PSI, AHA-CC Examination, 18000 W. 105th St., Olathe, KS 66061-7543
FAX: 913-895-4651 PHONE: 888-519-9901
CANDIDATE INFORMATION
(First Name) (Middle Initial) (Last Name) Former name if exam was taken previously
List name as you wish to be printed on your certificate. under a different name.
Titles and designations will not be printed on the certificate.
Name of Facility/Company/Organization Title
Preferred Mailing Address (Street Address, City, State/Province, Zip/Postal Code, Country)
Preferred Telephone Number Email Address
EXAMINATION TYPE. Place a checkmark next to the type of exam administration for which you are applying. Select only one.
□
Computer administration at a PSI Test Center
□
Special domestic administration (For scheduled dates, see www.AHACertificationCenter.org.) Scheduled date and location:
□
International administration (For Request for International Examination Administration form, see www.AHACertificationCenter.org)
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for the Certified Professional in Healthcare
Risk
Management (CPHRM) Examination, a candidate must
fulfill
one (1) of the following requirements for
education/healthcare
experience AND meet the
requirement for risk management
experience. By checking a
box below, a candidate certifies to
the AHA-CC that he or
she satisfies the eligibility requirement.
Check the one that
applies.
Education/Healthcare Experience
□
Baccalaureate degree or higher from an accredited college
or university plus five (5) years of experience in a
healthcare setting or with a provider of services to the
healthcare industry
□
Associate degree or equivalent from an accredited college
plus seven (7) years of experience in a healthcare setting
or with a provider of services to the healthcare industry.
□
High school diploma or equivalent plus nine (9) years of
experience in a healthcare setting or with a provider of
services to the healthcare industry.
Risk Management Experience
□
3,000 hours or 50 percent of full-time job duties within the
last three (3) years dedicated to healthcare risk
management in a healthcare setting or with a provider of
services (e.g. consultant, broker, attorney) to the
healthcare industry.
APPLICATION STATUS
Check one of the following.
□ I am applying as a new candidate.
□ I am applying as a re-applicant, i.e., retaking the exam.
□ I am applying for renewal of CPHRM certification.
MEMBERSHIP STATUS
If you are a current member of ASHRM or other AHA
Personal Membership Group (PMG), you are eligible for
the
reduced CPHRM Examination fee. Please provide
your 10-
digit membership number below.
For information on joining the American Society for
Healthcare Risk Management (ASHRM), visit
www.ASHRM.org. Membership must be obtained before
application for examination at the reduced fee can be
honored.
If you have applied for membership but have not yet
received your membership number, enter “NEW” below.
Membership Number:
CPHRM EXAMINATION FEES
Payment may be made by credit card, company check,
cashier’s check or money order made payable to PSI Services.
Indicate the type and amount of fees enclosed:
□ Member of ASHE or other AHA PMG………..…....$275
□ Nonmember:…………………………....…..…..…...$425
□ Rescheduling Fee…………………………………...$100
□ Member Voucher…………………………………….$0
** Note: If you are paying with a Member Voucher, the original voucher
is required. Copies will not be accepted.
For payment by credit card, complete the following.
Select type of credit card being used:
□VISA □MasterCard □American Express □Discover
Credit Card Number Expiration
Date
Your Name as it Appears on the Card
Signature
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 23
AMERICAN HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION CERTIFICATION CENTER
CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN HEALTHCARE RISK MANAGEMENT (CPHRM)
EXAMINATION APPLICATION PAGE 2 OF 2
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS. Do you require special disability related accommodations during testing?
□
No
□ Yes If yes, please complete the two-page Request for Special Examination Accommodations form
included in this
Candidate Handbook and submit it with an application and fee at least 45 days prior to the desired
testing date.
DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION. The following demographic information is requested.
1.
How many years of experience do you have in
healthcare risk management?
□ 0-5 years
□ 6-10 years
□ 11-15 years
□ 16-20 years
□ 21-25 years
□ 26-30 years
□ More than 30 years
2.
What is the highest academic level you have attained?
□ High school diploma or equivalent
□ Associate’s degree
□ Baccalaureate degree
□ Master’s degree
□ Doctoral degree
3.
Professional designations earned (select all that apply):
□ ABHRM
□ AIC
□ ALCM
□ ARM
□ AU
□ CHEM
□ CHSP
□ CPA
□ CPCU
□ CPHQ
□ CSP
□ RN
□ RPLU
□ Other:
4.
The majority of formal training you received in risk
management was through:
□ College Courses
□ Professional Development (e.g., ARM, CPCU)
□ ASHRM Seminars/Certificate Programs
□ Other:
5.
Current primary job function (select all that apply):
□ Acute Care Medical Center
□ Academic Medical Center
□ Multi-Hospital System
□ Specialty (e.g., pediatric, psychiatric, rehab.)
□ Long Term Care
□ Military/Federal/VA
□ Ambulatory Care
□ Insurance Company/Captive/Trust
□ Law Firm
□ Medical Group Practice
□ Home Healthcare Agency
□ Risk Management Consultant
□ Other:
6.
Current job title (Select one):
□ CEO/COO/CMO/CNO/CFO
□ Vice President/Chief Risk Officer
□ Medical Director
□ Risk Manager (e.g., coordinator, director, corporate)
□ Quality Assurance Manager (e.g., coordinator, director,
corporate)
□ Patient Safety Officer
□ Claims Manager (e.g., coordinator, director, corporate)
□ Insurance Manager (e.g. coordinator, director, corporate)
□ Consultant
□ Attorney
□ Compliance Officer
□ Other:
SIGNATURE. I certify that I have read all portions of the CPHRM Candidate Handbook and agree to abide by regulations contained
therein. I certify that I am eligible to take the CPHRM Examination and the information I have submitted in this application is complete and
correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that, if the information I have submitted is found to be incomplete or
inaccurate, my application may be rejected or my CPHRM Examination results may be delayed or voided.
Name (please print): ____________________________________________
Signature: _
Date:
NOTE: Name, address, telephone number and email address of
candidates who pass the CPHRM Examination are with ASHRM. Scores
are never reported. If you do NOT wish to have your personal information
shared, please opt out by contacting the AHA-CC in writing via e-mail at
certification@aha.org or fax to 312-422-4575.
REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXAMINATION
ACCOMMODATIONS
If you have a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please complete this form and
provide the
Documentation of Disability-Related Needs on the next page so your accommodations for testing
can be
processed efficiently. The information you provide and any documentation regarding your disability and
your need
for accommodation in testing will be treated with strict confidentiality. Please return this form with
your CPHRM
Examination application and fee to PSI at least 45 days prior to the desired testing date.
CANDIDATE INFORMATION
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Name of Facility/Company Title
Preferred Mailing Address (Street Address, City, State/Province, Zip/Postal Code, Country
Preferred Telephone Number Email Address
ASHRM or other AHA Personal Membership Group Member (PMG) Number
□
I am not a member of an AHA PMG.
Return this form with your examination application and fee to:
PSI, 18000 W. 105th St., Olathe, KS 66061-7543
If you have questions, call PSI Candidate Services at 888-519-9901 or fax to 913-895-4651.
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017) Page 24
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS
I request special accommodations for the examination.
Please provide (Check all that apply):
Reader
Extended testing time (time and a half)
Reduced distraction environment
Large print test (paper-and-pencil administration only)
Circle answers in test booklet (paper-and-pencil administration only)
Other special accommodations (Please specify.)
Comments
PLEASE READ AND SIGN: I give my permission for my diagnosing professional to discuss with PSI staff my
records and history as they relate to the requested accommodation.
Signed:
Date: _ _
Copyright 2014 by the AHA Certification Center (rev. June 2017)
Page 25
Please have this section completed by an appropriate professional (education professional,
physician,
psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.) to ensure PSI is able to provide the required CPHRM
Examination
accommodations. The information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Return this form with the
Request for Special Examination Accommodations form and your
CPHRM Examination application and fee to
PSI at least 45 days prior to the desired testing date.
Return this form with your CPHRM Examination application and fee to:
PSI, 18000 W. 105th St., Olathe, KS 66061-7543
If you have questions, please call PSI Candidate Services at 888-519-9901 or fax to 913-895-4651.
PROFESSIONAL DOCUMENTATION
I have known
since
/ /
in my capacity as a
Examination Candidate Date
.
Professional Title
The candidate discussed with me the nature of the examination to be administered. It is my opinion that, because
of this candidate’s disability described below, he/she/ should be accommodated by providing the special
arrangements as described on the Request for Special Examination Accommodations form.
Description of disability:
_
Title:
Date:
Signed:
Printed Name:
License Number (if applicable)
Address:
(Street Address, City, State/Province, Zip/Postal Code, Country )
Fax Number: Telephone Number:
Email:
DOCUMENTATION OF DISABILITY-RELATED
NEEDS
