Hospice Medical Director Certification Board
FAQs
How will HMD Certification benefit me professionally?
HMD Certification is intended to define and assess a minimum core competence in the knowledge and skills necessary to function as a hospice physician and medical director. As noted in the purpose of the HMD Certification, AAHPM is supporting the development of the certification organization, Hospice Medical Director Certification Board (HMDCB), in an effort to promote a consistency in quality and practice in the field of hospice for physicians.
How is HMD certification different from Board Certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine?
The recognition of the subspecialty of hospice and palliative medicine in 2006 by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and the American Osteopathic Association Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists (AOA) represented a significant achievement and recognition for the specialty.
The Hospice Medical Director Certification is distinct for several reasons. The HMD Certification:
- Will be designed to define and uphold standards for competent practice for this specific role.
- Will specifically address the core roles and administrative, regulatory, legal and ethical responsibilities of the hospice physician.
- Will serve as a verification of the mastery of a minimum level of competence in the skills and knowledge required by the hospice physician.
- HMD certification has the potential to improve the quality and consistency of the practice within hospice and palliative medicine and the care provided by local hospices.
Greater efficiency and effectiveness related to administrative practices benefit not only individual hospices but the entire field, particularly in an environment of increased scrutiny and accountability.
Will there be an exam?
Yes. After thoughtful consideration of multiple options for assessment, some type of exam was determined to be the most acceptable and defensible means of establishing an objective measure of competence. Validated research methods exist to aid in the development and ongoing refinement of exams.
How do I qualify?
AAHPM's Medical Director Education Committee recommended an outline of recommended experience and qualifications. The Organizing Board of the HMDCB will be defining the qualifications and experience necessary to sit for the HMD certification exam in the coming year.
How do I apply?
Applications for HMD Certification will be available in late 2013. More details will be posted as soon as they are available.
What will I need to do to prepare?
While specifics are not yet available, core competencies for hospice physicians include regulatory, leadership and administrative knowledge and skills in addition to clinical knowledge and practice experience. Resources currently available for this information include:
How much will it cost?
Costs will be determined by HMDCB in the coming year. The research done in the exploratory phases of HMD Certification indicated a need to balance accessibility while covering the costs of the program. Watch for more information in 2013.
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