Do My Human Resources Certification Examinations count? For many HR professionals, the answer is a resounding “yes.” And, with health care reform on the horizon and the ever-changing business environment that we find ourselves in, the need to be up-to-date is even more significant. A few key points to keep in mind regarding HRci phr certification:

Many States require some type of certification, whether it be an actual HRE Accreditation or a reexamination of one’s certificate. These tests are often taken multiple times and reflect the State’s particular renewal criteria. States may also require that an additional examination is taken by an independent firm or third party. These exams must be taken in addition to continuing education for health care professions. If you think you may need to take a health care certification exam, now is a great time to start planning and preparing.

For those already certified, the best way to save time and money on HRE recertification is to work on your renewal every two years, rather than wait until your current certification expires. This ensures that the State has time to review your recertification application, and that it has enough time to accommodate your new exam schedule. In most States, however, the renewal exam must be scheduled for the same date as your certification exam. If you have been out of state for a long period of time, scheduling the reapplication can prove to be difficult. Contact your State’s department of health to find out if there are alternative dates.

There are several ways to reduce costs associated with HRE recertification. One of the best ways is to choose an accredited provider who offers online access to the exam. Some health care providers offer free access to the exam. While this will not be available immediately when you take the test for certification, you will be able to complete the process without any problems in a few days, instead of the several months it would take for a traditional HRE recertification exam.

Another way to reduce the cost involved with recertification is to choose the date of your exam closely in advance of your actual date of certification. There is actually an option within most HRE plans for patients to request a recertification postponement at any time, which can save both time and money. You should be able to discuss this option with your local office. It is important that you understand that the recertification date is determined by your State’s board, and that once you choose a date, it cannot be changed.

Consider taking the exam for recertification in person as well. The actual exam itself is very similar to the certification exams that you took in the past, but it may involve additional tests that are different. Be sure to discuss this with your State’s Board of Nursing before choosing a testing site. The cost of the exam is not included with your State’s certification plan, so you should budget accordingly. If you have to pay for it out of pocket, consider asking for a partial rate.

One of the most useful aspects of the Internet-based HRE recertification process is that you can review your application, answer questions, and wait for a response much like you would in person. In addition to being able to do everything through the Internet, you will find that it is a lot easier to navigate and complete the entire process without a lot of extra hassle. You will also save time by not having to drive to an exam site and wait in line. Once you have successfully completed an HRE recertification exam online, you will then be sent your official certificate, which you can hand deliver to your local State Board of Nursing.

Choosing to get a HRE recertification is a great step towards continuing your career, but remember that it is just one step and does not guarantee your job future. You must have a continuous work history in order to maintain licensure after receiving a certification. You must also have a strong nursing skillset in order to obtain the position of your choice in many states licensed agencies. By learning all you can about the process of HRE recertification, you will be able to decide if it is right for you.