AAHAM Certified Revenue Cycle Executive
This exam is intended for all senior/executive leaders in the revenue cycle industry, to help equip you for strategic management of the business. This certification possesses the highest level of difficulty combining content knowledge of the business with critical thinking and communication skills. The Executive Revenue Cycle Certification demonstrates a high level of achievement and distinguishes you as a leader and role model in the revenue cycle industry. The certification validates your proficiency and commitment to your profession and can play an integral role in your career strategy. In many instances certification may help you secure the promotion or the job you desire. In the healthcare revenue cycle industry, the Executive Revenue Cycle Certification is comparable to earning a CPA or passing the bar exam. Passing the CRCE designates a mastery of the art of revenue cycle management
Exam Overview
The Executive Certification is a comprehensive online, proctored, eight (8) hour exam covering focused revenue cycle subject matter that includes patient access, billing, credit/collections and revenue cycle management. The exam is comprised of multiple-choice, true/false, fill in the blank, short answer, essay and quantitative questions.
Eligibility
CRCE exams are available to National AAHAM members, in good standing. The applicant must have a minimum of four (4) years of experience in a healthcare related field. A two (2) year associate degree or a degree from an accredited university or college can be substituted for two (2) years of experience. When using an educational waiver for experience, a transcript copy must accompany the application.
CRCE Sections
Sections included in the CRCE exams include:
| CRCE Sections | |||
| 1. Patient Access | |||
| 2. Billing | |||
| 3. Credit/Collections | |||
| 4. Revenue Cycle Management |
Exam Format
The exam is comprised of four (4) sections that contain multiple-choice, true/false, fill in the blank, short answer, essay and quantitative questions. Examinees must initially sit for all four (4) sections of the exam. Each section is graded separately, and each of the four (4) sections must be passed with a score of 70% or greater in order to earn the certification designation. If one (1) or two (2) sections are failed, a retake of those sections is permitted. If three (3) or more sections are failed, a retake of the entire exam is required.
Exam Retakes
Exam retakes for unpassed sections must be retaken within twelve (12) months from the initial exam date. Section retakes can be taken in between exam testing periods and need to be scheduled at least thirty (30) days after the exam retake registration has been submitted. Test takers are responsible for arranging the location and proctor for section retakes, either with their local proctor or through our online testing platform, ProctorU. A maximum of two (2) retakes are allowed. If the section(s) isn't passed after two retake attempts, the full exam must be registered in the next available testing period. Please contact [email protected] for ProctorU requirements or with any questions.
Exam Refunds and Postponements
CRCE application fees are non-refundable and are non-transferable. A one-time postponement is allowed if extenuating circumstances prevent an individual from sitting for a scheduled exam, but it must be approved by the Executive Committee. To request a postponement, the examinee must provide written notice to the AAHAM National Office ([email protected]) at least three (3) days prior to the scheduled exam in order to avoid incurring any additional rescheduling fees. Postponements are only allowed once and can only be transferred to the next exam cycle.
Grading
Written notification of test results will be forwarded to examinees no later than ninety (90) days from the date the exam was taken. The time required is a result of the rigorous and thorough hands-on grading process.
Exam Frequency
The exams are offered on a monthly basis. Please visit the AAHAM event calendar for the specific dates. Applications to take an exam are due in to the AAHAM office 30 days prior to a testing period.
Exam Preparation
AAHAM certification examinations require comprehensive working knowledge of patient account management, financial operations, information systems, governmental regulations and policies that govern revenue cycle procedures. However, hands-on experience is not sufficient; candidates will need to enhance and refresh their knowledge through independent and group study programs. Participation in study opportunities provided by your local chapter and/or the national organization is highly recommended.
Study opportunities include:
- A downloadable CRCE study outline included in the CRCE exam fee. The study outline can also be purchased separately.
- A CRCE online practice exam is offered to assist in identifying your strengths and weaknesses to help focus your study efforts. See the link above to access the order form.
- In-depth training webinars available as Mp4 downloads cover each section of the exam. See the link above to access the order form.
- Training and coaching opportunities are offered by local AAHAM chapters. For more information see the link above to locate the contact information for the Chapter Certification Chair in your local area.
Recertification
To see detailed information on recertification reporting and requirements, please click the recertification tab.
Professional Study Sessions will be conducted by Leanna Marshall (434/293-8891 or 434/962 8508), Virginia Chapter Certification Chair.
