What is the CPHQ Certification Exam?

The Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) exam, offered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ), is the premier certification for healthcare quality professionals. This exam validates your knowledge and expertise in healthcare quality practices, enabling you to excel in performance improvement, patient safety, and data analytics.

The exam comprises 140 multiple-choice questions, of which 125 are scored and 15 are unscored trial questions, with a time limit of 3 hours. A passing scaled score of 600 is required to achieve certification. This certification distinguishes professionals who are committed to excellence in healthcare quality.

What Does the CPHQ Exam Cover?

The CPHQ exam consists of 140 multiple-choice questions, of which 125 are scored and 15 are unscored trial questions, designed to evaluate your competency across seven key domains:

  1. Quality Leadership and Integration (19 scored questions)
    Focuses on integrating quality practices and leading organizational initiatives.
  2. Performance and Process Improvement (27 scored questions)
    Covers strategies for improving healthcare processes and evaluating outcomes.
  3. Population Health and Care Transitions (11 scored questions)
    Examines methods for enhancing care coordination and transitions.
  4. Health Data Analytics (26 scored questions)
    Tests your ability to analyze and interpret healthcare data for decision-making.
  5. Patient Safety (18 scored questions)
    Assesses your knowledge of safety protocols and risk reduction strategies.
  6. Quality Review and Accountability (16 scored questions)
    Ensures understanding of compliance with healthcare quality standards.
  7. Regulatory and Accreditation (8 scored questions)
    Focuses on navigating regulatory requirements and accreditation processes.

How to Prepare for the CPHQ Exam

Study Resources:
CPHQ Flashcards: Simplify complex healthcare concepts for focused learning.
CPHQ Practice Exams: Identify strengths and gaps through simulated tests.
CPHQ Cheatsheets: Concise reference tools summarizing key information.

Preparation Tips:
• Focus on high-impact areas such as performance improvement and data analytics.
• Take practice exams to get accustomed to the format and improve pacing.
• Develop a study plan targeting weaker areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all domains.

Test Day Tips:
• Arrive at the testing center or log in 30 minutes early with two valid forms of ID.
• Follow testing protocols to avoid unnecessary distractions.
• Stay calm, focused, and manage your time effectively during the exam.

FAQs

How much does the CPHQ exam cost?
The cost is $519 for NAHQ members and $619 for non-members if registering online. A $25 fee applies for mail-in applications.

Where can I take the CPHQ exam?
The exam is available at PSI testing centers and online for remote proctored testing.

Is the CPHQ exam difficult?
The passing rate is approximately 62%, indicating the exam requires thorough preparation and understanding of healthcare quality concepts.

What happens if I don’t pass the CPHQ exam?
You can retake the exam by registering again. There is no mandatory waiting period, but additional fees apply.

Featured Reviews

"The CPHQ flashcards are fantastic! They break down complex concepts like quality management, performance improvement, and data analytics into simple, digestible pieces!"
– Ruhi R., Denver, CO

"The flashcards reinforced important topics like patient safety and risk management. These gave me the confidence to pass on my first attempt."
– James T., Atlanta, GA

"The CPHQ flashcards and cheatsheets are amazing study resources. The flashcards cover all the exam domains in detail, and the cheatsheets were perfect for quick refreshers on essential frameworks and methodologies. They made my studying so much more organized and efficient. Highly recommend!"
– Irma., Austin, TX