Resource Library-Navigating the CPHQ Privileges and Pitfalls in Earning One of the Premiere Quality Certifications

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Sharonda Fessler and April Taylor discuss the privileges and pitfalls of earning the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), the only accredited certification focused specifically on healthcare quality. They introduce NAHQ’s Healthcare Quality Competency Framework, explaining how its domains (e.g., performance/process improvement, patient safety, data analytics, population health, accreditation) underpin both quality practice and the CPHQ exam.<br /><br />They emphasize that the CPHQ is for any healthcare quality professional—not only nurses or physicians—and is relevant across settings such as hospitals, behavioral health, ambulatory care, and payers. April shares a non-clinical career roadmap, describing how the CPHQ supported her progression from individual contributor to enterprise leader by strengthening professional “brand,” differentiation, team development, and later leadership skills (moving from recall to application and analysis). Sharonda shares a clinical pathway from bedside nurse to quality leader, including an initial failed exam attempt due to limited quality experience, followed by success after building foundational knowledge.<br /><br />Key privileges include joining a professional community, gaining confidence and credibility, strengthening personal branding, and creating momentum for ongoing learning. Pitfalls include treating certification as the endpoint, taking the exam before being ready, and failing to plan for recertification and continued development. They recommend networking, mentorship, self-assessment, and volunteering with NAHQ to stay current and grow.

Asset Caption

Speakers: Sheranda Fesler, PhD, RN, NE-BC, CPHQ, CPPS, CPHFH, RNC-NIC, FNAHQ, April Taylor, FACHE, CMQ/OE, CLSSBB, CPPS, CPHQ

This session provides an essential overview of the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) credential, highlighting its impact on both clinical and non-clinical career advancement for healthcare quality professionals. Attendees will learn about common pitfalls in the certification journey and discover strategies to successfully earn and leverage the CPHQ for ongoing professional growth. Join us to explore the privileges, opportunities, and best practices for maximizing your success as a CPHQ-certified leader in healthcare quality

Meta Tag

Competency Tag PE2

Competency Tag Description Engage in lifelong learning that supports healthcare quality and safety.

Domain Tag Professional Engagement

Keywords

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

NAHQ Healthcare Quality Competency Framework

healthcare quality certification

performance and process improvement

patient safety

healthcare data analytics

population health management

accreditation and regulatory compliance

professional development and recertification