Posted: September 6th, 2023

As you finish this capstone in your degree program, think about where you want to be as a health care professional in 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years. Lifelong learning will be essential to your professional growth and meeting your career goals.

Research the professional organizations, certifications, and continuing education that you think will help you in your career path. Consider organizations outside the health care industry, too, if they match your career goals. For instance, if one of your career goals is becoming a project manager in a health care organization, an organization whose focus is project management is a good match for your professional interests.

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

Which professional organizations, certifications, and continuing education do you think are a match for your career goals in health care?
What opportunities for continuing education and professional development did you find?
How does membership in the professional organizations you researched benefit your career path?

_________________________

One of the professional organizations that can benefit health care professionals is the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). ACHE offers certification programs such as the Board of Governors Examination in Healthcare Management and the Certified Healthcare Executive program, which can enhance a healthcare professional’s career advancement opportunities. Other organizations that may benefit healthcare professionals include the American Nurses Association (ANA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

Continuing education opportunities include courses and certifications in healthcare management, healthcare informatics, healthcare administration, and healthcare quality improvement. Some examples include the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP), and Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS) programs.

Membership in professional organizations can benefit a healthcare professional by providing access to a network of peers, mentorship opportunities, and continuing education opportunities. Membership can also enhance a professional’s credibility and visibility in the industry, which can lead to new job opportunities and career advancement. Professional organizations often offer resources such as webinars, conferences, and publications that can help healthcare professionals stay up to date with industry trends and best practices.