Tips for taking the CHTM

I recently took the test to become an AAMI Certified Healthcare Technology Manager.  It was quite the experience.  To prepare, I read the study guide authored by Patrick Lynch, “A Practicum for Healthcare Technology Management”, and dozens of articles from trade publications.  I tried to focus on the sources suggested by AAMI and any advice I could get from those that have taken the test in the past.  I was glad for the information they could share, and I was only given uncompromising suggestions.  Going through this was a great learning process. Here are four tips I suggest as you prepare to become certified: 

• Always allow enough time to study – I did not.  Life sometimes gets in the way, but to be successful, you must be committed.
• Get ready to learn a ton – The CBET test has a more focused amount of resources to help.  For this test, I had to dive into the very broad subject matter and learn all that I could.
• Don’t cram at the end – I think cramming at the end hurt more than it helped.  It elevated my stress, lowered my sleep, and probably forced out some childhood memories.
• Be prepared – Although there are a few questions that should be reworked, the test was challenging. Be prepared to really understand the subject matter.  There were far fewer regurgitations of facts than I expected.

I did ultimately pass, but the process was the better teacher.  For those that are studying for this certification (or any other for that matter) I suggest that you embrace the process.  Dive into the material and truly learn the subject matter.  Do not search for shortcuts as that lessens the integrity of the test, the prestige of the title, and minimizes the benefits you’ll gain.