What is the The Commission on Accreditation Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)?

The Commission on Accreditation Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) is an umbrella organization for a variety of organizations. They all strive to ensure quality and accountability in the field of educating healthcare management professionals. To that end, CAHME manages an array of initiatives, primarily the accreditation of U.S. healthcare management graduate education programs.

Healthcare management is one of the hottest career fields in the United States. Forbes magazine recently named it one of the best master’s degree programs, citing the average salary of $87,800 and the abundant job opportunities. If you’re interested in healthcare management, read on to learn more about CAMHE and its functions.

What Type of Degrees Does CAHME Accredit?

There are several types of degrees you can pursue to become a healthcare management professional, including:

  • Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
  • Master of Public Health (MPH)
  •  Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Public Administration (MPA)

CAHME is the body through which these degree programs maintain accreditation. This also holds true for some dual degree programs, such as joint:

  • JD/MHA
  • MD/MBA
  • MBA/MPH
  • MHA/MBA

Why is CAHME Accreditation Important?

A program that’s accredited through CAMHE must go through a rigorous process to prove quality and student outcomes. Choosing a program that has been accredited means that your education meets standards set by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. It’s a good benchmark to follow when pursuing a graduate degree in this field.

What Requirements Does CAHME Set for Accreditation?

While accreditation requirements are extensive, there are a few basic guidelines for eligibility. Schools must be regionally accredited. They must have a healthcare management program that culminates in a master’s degree that lasts at least two years and 120 credit hours. More information on accreditation standards is available in a downloadable PDF from the organization.

What Other Services Does CAHME Provide?

CAHME also provides extensive resources for students interested in careers in healthcare management, as well as for programs striving for accreditation. It also holds related conferences and meetings that may be of benefit to member organizations. It maintains corporate membership for organizations that are actively working to advance the field of healthcare management, including:

  • large hospitals
  • insurers
  • advocacy groups

Healthcare management is one of the best career fields to enter right now. It’s projected to continue growing for years to come. Earning a degree in this field will prepare you to work in a variety of settings, including:

  • hospital and health care systems
  • insurers
  • private practice
  • consulting
  • other health-related areas

Are you in the process of choosing a graduate program in healthcare management? CAHME is an ideal place to start to make sure that the education you’re paying for is top notch and will truly prepare you for a career in the field.