Why Professional Credentials Matter

The value of becoming credentialed as a Compliance Officer or Coordinator demonstrates your compliance competency and your dedication to the profession, as well as enhancing your professional qualifications. Becoming credentialed also benefits your practice by improving patient safety, mitigating risk and reducing liability. The Institute offers three levels of study in the areas of HIPAA, OSHA and Risk Management. Understanding the differences between certificate and credentialing programs will help you make the best decision about which course level meets your professional development needs. The levels include:

  • Level I Course Completion Certificate: This level provides basic access to the course modules in the selected course of study (HIPAA, OSHA or Risk Management). There is no post test or class participation required. No continuing education credits granted.  Students receive a Level I Certificate of Completion.
  • Level II Certificate in HIPAA, OSHA or Risk Management: This level is an assessment-based Certificate Program that includes the same coursework as Level I. Learning is enhanced through required class participation along with discussion questions, self-review questions and assessment. Upon completion of all required elements students receive a Level II Certificate in HIPAA, OSHA or Risk Management.
  • Level III Credentials: This level awards credentials in the chosen area of study (HIPAA, OSHA or Risk Management) along with the privilege to use a letter designation behind your name. It includes all the Level II requirements in addition to successfully passing the competency exam which is administered by an independent third party. Level III graduates will be awarded the designation of Certified Dental Specialist in HIPAA (CDSH™), Certified Dental Specialist in OSHA (CDSO™) or Certified Dental Specialist in Risk Management (CDSRM™). Achieving credentials confirms your mastery of the required subject matter through a rigorous exam process. Level III Credentials enhance your qualifications and require that you remain current in the field by renewing your credentials annually.

All courses follow industry standards for online higher education to ensure that learning objectives, instructional materials and course activities are aligned for maximum student learning. All courses are for educational purposes only and are not intended to provide legal advice. Learn more about specific course work for each credential: HIPAA, OSHA or Risk Management.