National Healthcareer Association
NHA
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Frequently Asked Questions
 
What Does National Certification Mean?NHA is there for you!
NHA certification exams offer an opportunity to current healthcare workers, union members, or graduates who have successfully completed an approved training program to demonstrate that they are proficient in their field. As far as a job and career are concerned, passing the NHA certification exam can show a prospective employer that the individual is a serious and dedicated professional wanting to advance in their career.





Your Questions:


More Questions and Answers:



 
NHA round bullet What is The NHA's Goal?
The NHA's goal is to continue to develop competency certifications for healthcare professionals and to be recognized as the leader and preferred certification used nationwide.
 
NHA round bullet What Are the Benefits of NHA Certification?
In addition to establishing your credentials as a healthcare professional, certification through NHA offers you benefits that include:

NHA education and knowledgeA practical means of assessing your skills and experience
NHA education and knowledgeHelp in your career advancement and compensation
NHA education and knowledgeThe satisfaction of measuring yourself against the highest industry standards
NHA education and knowledgeMembership in a distinctive peer group made up of your fellow professionals
NHA education and knowledgeBelonging to an organization that stands behind its membership
NHA education and knowledgeRecognition for your specialized knowledge in a choice of eight specialty areas
NHA education and knowledgeThe opportunity to continue your education and your knowledge by earning CEU's
NHA education and knowledgeSatisfy the state regulatory guidelines, if any. (Some states require certification for several allied healthcare professions)
 
NHA round bullet Is National Certification Required?
In some states, certification is mandatory for allied healthcare professionals while in other states you are not required to be certified. The value of having a certification through the NHA certainly helps your chances of advancement and will help you professionally if the state you are working in requires any type of certification now or in the future. If you are unsure about your state requirements, e-mail us at info@NHANOW.com.
* Note: Many hospitals, private practices, organizations and unions throughout the country require national certification as a competency standard.
 
NHA round bullet What are "Psychometrics"?
Psychometrics are assessments that find out what people are like, what they can do, what they know, what interests or motivates them. You've probably heard of personality questionnaires, but psychometrics also include tests of ability, interest, aptitudes, learning style, attitude and many other attributes. There are thousands of different psychometric tests available.

 
FAQ's Regarding Becoming an Approved NHA Testing Site
 
NHA round bulletHow can our school/organization offer the NHA National Certification Exam?
In order for a school to offer NHA certification examinations, it must first complete an application and submit it together with the curriculum for the course(s) in which it wishes to certify students. The NHA Advisory Board reviews the curriculum and accepts it or makes recommendations to ensure that the program meets NHA guidelines. This review is at no cost to your school.
 
NHA round bulletWho sets up my testing dates?
The exam proctor or school administrator/director should set the testing calendar and send in to NHA for approval.

 
NHA round bulletHow can we schedule exam dates?
Exams can be scheduled by faxing, emailing, mailing or via Internet to our Exam Calendar Coordinator to one of the following:
Fax: 973-644-4797
Mail: NHA, 7 Ridgedale Avenue, Suite 203, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
 
NHA round bulletCan I change my testing dates?
Yes you can change your test dates, however, you must notify the NHA in writing within two weeks of the given exam date. This information should be forwarded to our Exam Calendar Coordinator by fax, email or use the web:
Fax: 973-644-4797

 
NHA round bulletDo we, as a testing site, have to send the printed exams back?
Yes, the exam proctor must send all exams and materials back to NHA within 3 business days.
 
NHA round bulletIf my school received the exam materials and decided the students are not ready to test, what is the next step?
The school must notify our Exam Calendar Coordinator prior to the exam date by fax or email.  The exam materials must be sent back to NHA immediately.
Fax: 973-644-4797

 
NHA round bulletIf our School is approved to offer testing in CBCS/CMAA and we want to offer testing in CCMA; what do we need to do?
The school must complete a school application and submit it to the NHA Advisory Board, along with the proposed curriculum.
 
NHA round bulletHow do I become a proctor for the NHA?
In order to become an NHA Exam Proctor, you must be an employee of the testing site in which you would like to proctor exams.  The proctor's resume and Proctor's Oath must be submitted in advance and approved by the NHA.

 
NHA round bulletHow do I choose a proctor for my school?
The examination proctor must be an employee of the school and must be professional, reliable and trustworthy.
 
NHA round bulletDoes the proctor get paid for proctoring the NHA exam?
NHA will pay either the proctor or the school directly a fee per student.

 
NHA round bulletIs there a certain number of students the school needs before giving the NHA exam?
No, exams can be given to any number of students, even as few as 1 student.

 
NHA round bulletWhat is the time limit to send back the printed NHA exams?
All exams and materials must be sent back to NHA within 3 business days of the date the exam was given.
 
FAQ's Regarding Certified Healthcare Instructor (CHI)

What is the Certified Healthcare Instructor (CHI) Certification Program?
The Certified Healthcare Instructor (CHI) program was designed and implemented to meet the ever growing need for qualified healthcare instructors.  It is our belief that offering a specific certification program for instructors will help them prepare them to enter a classroom of adult learners.


Is CHI Certification required to teach healthcare courses?
The Certified Healthcare Instructor (CHI) is not required at this time; however, the value of being certified as a Healthcare Educator shows that you are serious about your profession and pledge to promote ethical standards and competency to all prospective healthcare professionals. This certification can open up new doors to job opportunities as well as advancement in your current job.

Do I have to be certified in the discipline that I teach in order to become a Certified Healthcare Instructor?
Yes, you must have a current certification in the discipline that you teach or are planning to teach.  This does not apply if you have a current license as a MD, RN or MT.

 
FAQ's Regarding the Home Study Certification Program

What does the Home Study Program mean?
NHA Home Study Certification offers an opportunity for current healthcare workers, to demonstrate proficiency in their field. This program was designed with you, the busy professional, in mind and can be taken either online or printed at home. Go to: NHA Certification Home Study Program page.

What are the requirements for the Home Study Program?
Applicant must be 18 years of age or older and must have High School diploma or equivalent.  Additionally, you must have at least two recent years of work experience that is documented by your employer. Go to: NHA Certification Home Study Program page.


How is the Home Study Program offered?
The Home Study program can be taken either online or we can mail a printed version for an additional shipping cost. Go to: NHA Certification Home Study Program page.

I am a foreign professional and I meet the requirements for the Home Study Program. Can I apply for this program even though I don't live in the United States?
Yes, as long as proof of experience (translated to English) can be provided. Candidates overseas are required to take the online version of this program. Go to: NHA Certification Home Study Program page.


Is there a difference between certification acquired through the Home Study Program and the National Certification Exam?
Whether you are taking the National Certification Exams or the Home Study Certification Program, the certification you will receive is the exact same credential. Go to: NHA Certification Home Study Program page.

I live in California and have plenty of experience as a phlebotomist. Can I apply for the Home Study Program for phlebotomy?
No, California residents must take the National Certification Exam but must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the California Department of Health Services, Laboratory Field Services. Go to: NHA Certification Home Study Program page.

 
FAQ's Regarding NHA's Elite Membership Program

Does NHA have a job placement program?
Yes, NHA offers placement services to members of our “Elite Membership” program. Go to: NHA Elite Membership page.

What is the Elite Membership Program?
This membership will provide exclusive rights to www.healthcareerzone.com, which offers access to the largest Allied Healthcare job opportunities throughout the country. This program also provides eligibility to join our online workshops, teleconferences, seminars at a discounted rate. As a member you will also be enrolled in our Healthcare Courtesy Program, which offers free discounts courtesy cards for various programs. Go to: NHA Elite Membership page.

What are the benefits of the Elite Membership Program?
NHA education and knowledgeAllied Healthcare Job Assistance:
Elite Members will have EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS and access to thousands of online applications on www.healthcareerzone.com, just waiting to be completed. Go directly to Human Resource departments in hospitals, doctor's offices and clinics and start working in your area. Elite Members will receive their password and access codes immediately to enter our members' only website. Go to: NHA Elite Membership page.

NHA education and knowledgeFREE Teleconference and Seminars (for Elite members only):  For those who love to learn, all Elite Members will automatically receive up to 3 FREE online advanced skill-based certification workshops, from NHA University (valued over $500). You will also receive discounts on teleconferences, seminars, Webinars, certification meetings, workshops, online courses, and live conferences offered by the NHA.

NHA education and knowledgeHealthcare Courtesy Benefit Package:
Our affiliated programs offer FREE discount cards on prescription, vision, dental and other healthcare services. Just a few companies are: Target, Shop Rite, Wal-Mart, Publix and Rite Aid. GEICO and Xerox Federal Credit Union offer programs on insurance and important financial programs. The savings are huge, the benefits are excellent and best of all it's.... FREE. All for being an Elite Member. It's NHA's way of saying thank you for being a great customer.

NHA education and knowledgePersonalized Membership ID Certificate:
All Elite members will receive a personalized membership certificate suitable for framing.

NHA education and knowledgePersonalized NHA ID Badge:
All Elite members will receive an inscribed name badge with their national certification credentials imprinted on them.
 
FAQ's Regarding NHA's National Certification Examinations

If I completed my training in Oklahoma and now I am moving to Kansas; can I take the NHA Certification Exam in Kansas?
If you completed training in one state and moved to another state, you can take the certification exam at anyone of our many testing sites.


If I took a Home Health Aide course, which NHA exam am I eligible to take?
NHA does not provide licensing for Home Health Aides. However, if you have documented experience in phlebotomy and EKG, you may qualify for our Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) certification.

If I have a state sponsored, valid CNA license and have completed an EKG training program can I take the CPCT exam and be certified as a Patient Care Tech?
Only if you have also completed a NHA approved phlebotomy training program will you be eligible for CPCT certification.  


What are the requirements to take the NHA National Certification Exam?
You must meet one of the following criteria listed below:
NHA education and knowledgeYou must have either a High School Diploma or equivalency, and you must have recently successfully completed an NHA approved training program
or

NHA education and knowledgeYou must have either a High School Diploma, or equivalency, and you must have recently worked in the field of certification for a minimum of 1 year. (Candidates must be able to provide written proof of experience by director or employer!)
 
 
How do I register to take the exam?
The National Healthcareer Association provides 4 easy ways for schools and allied healthcare professionals to register for their National Certification Examinations.

1. OnLine
Go directly to our secured registration page and submit your registration using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, school voucher or school purchase order. Please have these handy when registering.

2. Mail
1- Simply download and Print the Registration Form
2- Fill out completely
3- Mail, along with your check, money order, credit card information, or school voucher to:

National Healthcareer Association
7 Ridgedale Ave, Suite 203
Cedar Knolls, NJ  07927

3. FAX
1- Simply download and Print the Registration Form
2- Fill out completely
3- Fax to NHA with credit card information, or school voucher information to:
973-644-4797

4. Phone
1- Call our Customer Service Department at: 1-800-499-9092
2- Complete the registration form over the phone
3- Have a credit card, or school voucher ready for payment.
 
How Do I Study for My National Certification Exam?
The National Healthcareer Association prepares and supplies the most up-to date methods of helping you prepare for your National Certification Exam.

Let's go over your study options:
Through NHA University we offer individuals NHA MyTime. The NHA MyTime is an online workshop led by an industry expert. This program is self paced and can be viewed additional times for reinforcement as you study for the exam. It is flexible and can be accessed from your home, office or any library. It's NHA MyTime.

All students will receive one of our NHA Study Guides after registering for their certification exam. You can choose to have the study guide sent to you electronically at no additional cost, or for a small shipping and handling fee, we can mail you a printed version.

The NHA Customer Service Department is here to support and help you prepare for your National Certification Exam. If you have any questions, please feel free to call our Customer Service Department at 1-800-499-9092.
 
What do I need to bring to the testing site?
If you are taking an Internet based exam, you must bring your confirmation letter from NHA, and photo identification.  If you are taking a printed exam, you must bring your confirmation letter from NHA, photo identification and two number 2 pencils.

 
Is the National Certification Exam offered online?
Yes, all of NHA National Certification Examinations can be taken online at an NHA approved testing site with an exam proctor present.


How soon can I retake the exam?
You must wait at least 1 month before retaking an exam

How many times can I retake the exam?
If you were unsuccessful on your first attempt, you can retake the exam 2 additional times at the discounted cost of $52.50.


What are the requirements for testing with employer?
In order to test with your employer, you first must meet the requirements of having at least 1 year recent work experience. Written documentation must be provided.  Your employer must provide us with a letter verifying that they are willing to proctor your exam.


How soon do I get the results of the exam?
Results are sent to the testing site approximately 3 business days after receipt of the exams.  The actual certification is generally mailed within 20 business days.


How do I keep my certification current?
Once certified, you are required to complete 5 annual C.E. credits and pay annual renewal fees.
 
FAQ's Regarding NHA's Annual Continuing Education Program
What is the NHA Continuing Education (CE) Program?
The NHA CE Program has been designed with you, the busy professional, in mind. Everything you need to complete your yearly required CE credits obligation is within this easy to use program. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.

What are the annual fees?
Annual fee is $79.50 per year. Please note there is a $20 fee for each additional certification. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.

Missed a year of your continuing education?
Annual fees are doubled $159.00, and a $40.00 fee for each additional certification.

Need to be reinstated?
Additional $99.00 reinstatement fee. Some restrictions may apply, please call our customer service department for more details.

What if I have more than one Certification?
That's easy, for every additional certification you just have to add a $20.00 annual fee (your first 5 annual credits). Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.


What do I have to do?
You can choose from any CE Volume.  Each volume consists of a Section A and Section B.  Each of the topics in Section A is worth 1.0 credit and is on a single page with a 5 question test. Section B contains 2 major topics. Each of the topics in this section is worth 2.0 credits. Choose 3 of the six minor program topics in Section A and choose 1 of the 2 major topics in Section B. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.


What if I didn't do my CE Credits last year?
You still have a chance to obtain all 10 credits within your expiration year by completing the entire program: all 6 CE Minor Topics from Section A (equivalent to 1.0 Credit each) and 2 CE Major Topics from Section B (equivalent to 2.0 Credits each) TOTAL OF 10 CREDITS. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.

What if I have NEVER taken the CE Programs?
Can I take the previous CE Credits or do I always take the latest for that year?
If you have never taken, or have missed a year of continuing education, it is recommended that you start with Annual CE Program Volume 1.  However, it is your choice! Start with any volume! We keep track for you. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.


What if my certification has expired?
If your certification has expired, you will need to complete this entire program: all 6 CE Minor Topics from Section A (equivalent to 1.0 Credit each) and 2 CE Major Topics from Section B (equivalent to 2.0 Credits each). TOTAL OF 10 CREDITS for $159.00. You are also subject to a Reinstatement Fee of $99.00 for a total of $258.00. (Please note: For Multiple Certifications an additional $40.00 fee per certification is required). Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.

Do I need Continuing Education every year?
Yes. Industry standards require that Healthcare Professionals complete at least 5.0 CE credits per year to keep Certification current. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.


What do I get when I complete the CE Assessment program?
Upon completion of your first 5 annual credits, you will receive a “CREDITS COMPLETED” sticker to apply to your Certification ID Card. Upon completion of your required 10 credits, you will automatically receive a new ID Card and Certification Certificate. Go to: NHA Annual Continuing Education (CE) Program page.

If you are uncertain as to the next step in taking your required Continuing Education, call NHA at 1-800-499-9092 or send an e-mail to CE@nhanow.com and an NHA CE specialist will contact you.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

The NHA is the Benchmark in Allied Healthcare Certification
NHA
NHA is a Nationally Approved, Recommended, and Recognized Organization.





NHA - National Headquarters
7 Ridgedale Ave., Suite 203
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
Phone: 973-605-1881
Toll Free: 800-499-9092
FAX: 973-644-4797

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