Certified Health Data Analyst Certification has value for healthcare

The CHDA certification has great value for Health Information Professionals and Healthcare

Data is growing exponentially as the world becomes more technical, digital, and universally connected. The impact on healthcare continues to gain momentum and prominence as healthcare data becomes more numerical, with input from a myriad of sources, wearables and devices included. The Health Information Professional is not exempt from Big Data but rather, is immersed in the analysis and interpretation of data across the healthcare spectrum. The expansion of data is both an opportunity and a challenge for the Health Information Professional.

This is an update to the article published, February 24, 2022

The Value of a Data Analytics Certification for Healthcare

To support the Health Information Professional in their journey through the world of Big Data and contribute to Healthcare’s changing landscape of the medical record, AHIMA created the Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) certification. With 10 years of data available, AHIMA undertook an in-depth analysis to evaluate the test results and respond to the workforce with guidance and best practices. The study offers insight into the reasons for the low pass-rate (continuously declining) and future options to improve the CHDA pass-rate as well as, AHIMA's commitment to the CHDA certification.

Of interest is that the pass-rate recorded at AHIMA CHDA Certification page has changed periodically --- possibly as more data is collected. Based on data available at this time, January 2023:

… the pass-rate for first-time test takers has continued to decline from 26% in 2018 to only 10 percent for the year 2020 (the pass-rate is now given at 7 percent for year 2020 as of today, January 29, 2023.)

… the pass-rate for first-time test takers for the year 2021 increased to 14%, and

… the pass-rate for first-time test takers for the year 2022 is given at 50%

Also, noteworthy is the number of test-takers … 77 individuals sat for the CHDA exam in 2021 and only 38 individuals sat for the exam in 2022. The pass-rate for first time testers increased substantially from 2021 to 2022 however, the number of individuals taking the test declined. The pass-rate improved but with fewer testers. The meaning would employ another in-depth analysis.

CHDA results as of January 2023 published at AHIMA website:

Some Highlights from the study:

… the pass-rate has continued to decline (the 50% pass-rate for 2022 seems to be an exception, outlier, or other measures – no offense, congratulations to all 38 individuals)

… educational level — most likely to pass if you have a master’s degree or higher

… age of the individual is a deciding factor — test-takers aged 50 and above are more likely to pass the test

… job setting / working / not-working — not a determining success factor although more analysis is needed

… other credentials — CCS/CCS-P/RHIT/RHIA/ etc. not a factor in passing the CHDA; however, the CCA credential did decreased the likelihood of passing the exam

One take-away ....

CHDA is an Advanced Practice credential

Why would one want to pursue the CHDA certification, you ask? … Value

First, a certification shows an individual’s commitment to their profession or industry. It demonstrates that one has invested the time and resources to enhance their knowledge for a given specialty or area of work.

Second, the CHDA certificate proves that a person has the technological and analytical expertise to perform healthcare analysis at the highest level … while maintaining the sensitivity and ethical standards that matter to the delivery of healthcare, patients, governance and regulations.

The reward of a certification holds immense value …. A certification provides credibility for the given area of study, shows an individual has competency in this area, and has made a commitment to their career and personal goals. And, with an increase in education and knowledge often presents a competitive advantage and an increase in salary --- $$$.

How can we improve the CHDA pass-rate?

Data “is and will” continue to impact the Future of Healthcare and the Health Information Professional’s career — all reasons to continue and support the CHDA certification. Knowledge gained from the CHDA certification can prepare the Health Information Professional to lead in ways that are sure to impact healthcare ~ analyzing Data from a myriad of sources … expanding healthcare delivery locations, wearables and telehealth.

AHIMA must increase the number of credentialed CHDA holders in order to have a positive impact for the Healthcare Information Professional in the healthcare work environment. (Yes, 50% of test takers passing on first-pass is an improvement; however, adding 38 Certified Health Data Analyst in one year is not sufficient to support the need for data analyst across healthcare.)

AHIMA must devote resources ($$$) to the success of the CHDA — such as, bring back the “onsite” training as was presented in Austin Tx in 2015. A two-day class at the annual AHIMA Convention is a possibility, right?

It is my hope that AHIMA will find the CHDA credential meaningful and relevant to the Health Information Professional of today and for the future. Support the CHDA financially and physically including, mentors to help one prepare for the exam, written materials, study groups, engage social media, and most notably, showcase the value to the healthcare workplace.

Full article is available at www.AHIMA.org, PERSPECTIVES, Fall 2021 edition and, worth the read for anyone considering the CHDA credential as well as, everyone involved in Data Analytics, AHIMA and Health Information.

Your thoughts count – is a Data Analytics credential valuable for your career?

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