AMIA established the AMIA Health Informatics Certification (AHIC) program to address the needs created by the growing number and expanding role of health informaticians and the increased impact of their work in healthcare delivery, public health and consumer health. AMIA seeks to provide a customer-focused certification process that meets the highest standards for certification program quality as defined by certification program accreditation criteria (i.e., National Commission for Certifying Agencies and ANSI/ICE).
The AHIC Program is dedicated to enhancing and promoting the health informatics profession by providing the premier health informatics credential program. The AHIC program accomplishes this mission by establishing standards for professional practice; creating a fair, valid, and reliable examination process by which professionals can demonstrate their knowledge and skill; granting certification to those who meet the program’s standards; and communicating the value of the credential to employers and other key constituencies.
AHIC Today
Honoring the ACHIP Credential. Looking Ahead.
AMIA is evolving how we recognize and support health informatics professionals. Following careful review of the AHIC program's performance, sustainability, and alignment with AMIA's long-term strategy, the AMIA Board of Directors has determined that the current AHIC program will conclude as AMIA explores a future approach to professional recognition.
If you have earned the ACHIP credential, you will retain it.
The conclusion of the current AHIC program does not revoke or invalidate your credential or diminish the expertise, achievement, and professional commitment it represents.
ACHIP credential holders:
- Will keep their ACHIP credential
- May continue to use the ACHIP designation in professional communications and materials
- Do not need to take immediate action
AMIA recognizes the significant time, preparation and professional investment required to earn the ACHIP credential, and we remain committed to honoring that accomplishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is AMIA concluding the current AHIC program?
After careful review, the AMIA Board of Directors determined that the current AHIC program model is no longer the best long-term approach based on program performance, sustainability, and alignment with AMIA's future strategy. The Board believes this is the right time to evolve how AMIA recognizes and supports health informatics professionals.
Am I losing my ACHIP credential?
No. Anyone who has earned the ACHIP credential will retain it permanently. Your credential is not being revoked, canceled, or invalidated. The expertise and achievement represented by your credential remain recognized and respected by AMIA.
Can I continue using the ACHIP designation?
Yes. ACHIP credential holders may continue to use the ACHIP designation in professional communications, resumes, biographies, presentations, publications, and other professional materials.
Does this decision diminish the value of ACHIP?
No. The Board recognizes the significant time, preparation, and professional commitment required to earn the credential. This decision reflects a change in program strategy, not the value of the credential or the accomplishments of those who earned it.
Why wasn't ACHIP simply continued or expanded?
The Board evaluated the program's long-term sustainability and strategic alignment and determined that a different approach to professional recognition is needed for the future. The decision reflects the program model, not the value of credential holders or the profession.
Will there be a replacement for AHIC?
AMIA is exploring future approaches to professional recognition that may include more flexible and modern pathways. While concepts are being evaluated, no specific replacement program has been finalized or announced at this time.
What happens if I was planning to pursue ACHIP but have not yet completed the process?
AMIA is developing transition guidance for individuals who are currently in the application or examination process. Additional information will be communicated directly to affected individuals as plans are finalized.
Do I need to take any action right now?
No. Current ACHIP credential holders do not need to take any immediate action. AMIA will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available.
Where can I direct questions?
Questions can be directed to [email protected].