The Hospice Medical Director Certification Board (HMDCB) serves as an important workforce initiative for the hospice field by providing a standardized comprehensive examination to assess the knowledge and skills of hospice physicians/medical directors. Hospice medicine is continuously evolving, especially the complex hospice regulations.
By earning the HMDC credential, physicians have the unique opportunity to expand their knowledge and skill set in hospice, both clinically and administratively. Completing a fellowship in hospice and palliative medicine does not necessarily prepare a physician for the role of hospice physician or hospice medical director. Obtaining knowledge of the regulatory, administrative, and leadership responsibilities that are a mandated part of this role is key.
Hospice Medical Director Certification is one way to help address the growing workforce and quality issues for this field, as well as provide a place for hospice physicians to connect and learn through the HMDCB community.
About the Hospice Medical Director Certification Board (HMDCB)
Similar to other high-quality physician certification programs, HMDCB is incorporated as an independent not-for-profit organization that administers and oversees the certification program for eligible candidates.
This certification is separate and distinct from the subspecialty certification of hospice and palliative medicine by the American Board of Medical Specialties or the American Osteopathic Association Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists. The Hospice Medical Director Certification Board was developed by experts within the field, including hospice physicians, administrators, and outside organizations.
How to Prepare for the HMDCB Exam
AAHPM provides many products to help candidates prepare for the HMDCB exam.
- The Hospice Physician and Medical Director Manual 4th edition is a detailed guide aimed at supporting doctors and leaders in hospice care. This important resource is created to help you provide community-focused, compassionate care while meeting administrative, regulatory, and Medicare standards.
- HMD PREP 2nd Edition (Reviewed 2022) – 75-item multiple-choice practice test that assesses your knowledge in hospice practice. Content is based on the HMDC exam blueprint.
- Caring for Patients Nearing Life’s End webinar recording
- Essentials in Pediatric Hospice webinar recording
Additionally, visit AAHPM Learn to search through all clinical and regulatory content.
Maintaining Certification
HMDCB requires all certificants to participate in a Continuing Certification Program (CCP) to maintain the credential.
Please Note: AAHPM has no direct role or input in the development of the HMDCB Exam. The Academy relies on publicly published material about the exam to develop its products.