Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Overview of ACHCA
- Membership
- Chapters
- Professional Development and Continuing Education
- Resources
- Events
- Partners
- Academy
- Mentoring
- Career Link
OVERVIEW OF ACHCA
What is ACHCA?
ACHCA is a non-profit professional membership association dedicated to administrative leadership and excellence in post-acute and aging services care across the spectrum of health care services. We offer professional certification, career development opportunities, ongoing education and networking opportunities to our members. For more information about ACHCA, click here.
What are the ACHCA Bylaws?
Bylaws are a set of rules adopted by an organization chiefly to govern its members and regulate its affairs. Click here to read the ACHCA Bylaws.
What is ACHCA's mission?
The American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) is the catalyst for excellence in post-acute and aging services leadership.
What are the business hours of ACHCA?
Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5 pm ET. The ACHCA office is closed on Federal holidays.
Where is ACHCA located?
The ACHCA National office is located at 1300 Piccard Drive, Suite LL14, Rockville, MD 20850. All correspondence should be sent to our MD address.
Membership payments, checks, or printed applications should be sent to our Physical address:
ACHCA
1300 Piccard Drive, Suite LL14
Rockville, MD 20850
Does ACHCA solicit donations? If so, how?
Yes. ACHCA solicits donations, memorials, and tributes, and conducts an annual giving campaign. ACHCA is a 501(c) 3 organization. Contributions of gifts to ACHCA are deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. FEIN: 36-2637617.
For more information about how you can donate to ACHCA, please click here.
Does ACHCA offer scholarships to students?
Although ACHCA does not offer academic scholarships, we do offer scholarships to assist in ACHCA Conference participation. In addition, check the chapter websites as some funding may be available at the chapter level.
Does ACHCA offer an AIT program?
ACHCA does not offer an AIT program. In collaboration with NAB, ACHCA has developed an online AIT Preceptor training program that trains preceptors. Interested individuals are invited to view our collaborative AIT resources. ACHCA does have an AIT membership category that allows members to network at the chapter level to explore AIT site opportunities. In addition, AIT's can network in the ACHCA Community. ACHCA members strive to assist those interested in the long term care profession to obtain an AIT opportunity or position. However, we cannot guarantee or promote any placements.
What does "College" in ACHCA stand for? Is ACHCA an educational institution?
ACHCA was founded in 1962 during a time when LTC leadership education was not available elsewhere. ACHCA was seen as “the College” that filled this educational need. Today, “the College” represents collegiality, and should not be mistaken for an academic institution. ACHCA is not an educational institution.
MEMBERSHIP
Who can be a member of ACHCA?
Leaders in health care administration are encouraged to join ACHCA specifically the licensed nursing home administrator. Our members range from students in health-care related programs to retired administrators/executives. For more information about membership, click here.
Does my organization join ACHCA, or do I join as an individual?
ACHCA is a professional membership association. Memberships are individual and non-transferable. We offer a non-voting membership (the Business Affiliate) for entrepreneurs and small business owners who offer products and services to facilities caring for residents and patients in the long-term care and post-acute care setting. For more information about membership categories, click here.
Is there a way to receive emails from ACHCA, even if I am not a member?
Yes. In order to receive emails from ACHCA about upcoming webinars, events, and news, click here to join our email list.
Why should I join ACHCA?
ACHCA members join for professional networking, NAB-approved education, leadership and career development, and volunteer opportunities. To review a list of our member benefits click here.
How can I join ACHCA?
You can join online.
You can also print our application and fax/mail it in: click here for the printable version. Click here to renew online. Send email to [email protected] if you have questions.
Can I make a credit card payment to join or renew my membership over the phone?
Yes, please call (800) 561-3148.
Do you offer discounted rates for multiple memberships?
Yes, we offer a Group Membership — a 10% reduction in the membership fee per individual member. This group rate applies to our Emerging Professional and Professional memberships only.
What are the membership types?
Membership categories range from Student to Retired. For a description of each type, click here. Contact [email protected] if you are uncertain of your eligibility for membership.
For Student memberships, where do I send my documentation?
The student membership will remain in a "pending" status until enrollment verification is received. Proof of current full-time academic enrollment (i.e. college ID, class schedule, tuition statement, etc.) must be emailed to [email protected].
How long after I join will I receive my new member packet?
You will receive a welcome e-mail immediately upon receipt of payment. In addition, you will receive your ACHCA membership card in the mail approximately 4-6 weeks after you join. *Please make sure that your mailing address is correct when viewing your member profile in the Member Portal. If you do not receive your welcome information or membership card, please e-mail [email protected].
Are my dues tax deductible?
ACHCA dues are not deductible as a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes but may be deducted as a business expense. Please consult with your tax professional for more information.
Does ACHCA offer a payment plan?
No. The ACHCA Bylaws do not offer a stratified payment or auto-deduct plan as it minimizes the status of “membership in good standing” which is a requirement of membership payment in full.
What is the membership renewal date?
Memberships are renewed on the anniversary of a member's join date. Members receive a renewal notice by email, 60 days prior to their membership expiration date. An additional e-mail notification is sent 30 days and 5 days prior to a member's expiration date. Renewal notifications are sent to the primary e-mail address in a member's profile and to the member's primary mailing address. Members are encouraged to review their contact information frequently for accuracy.
I am interested in serving on an ACHCA volunteer committee. What is the process for being recognized for committee participation?
ACHCA’s committee year spans May through April each year. Potential committee members may apply for volunteer committees by completing the committee application and Conflict of Interest form. Committee applications are solicited between November and February each year for the subsequent year. Applications are reviewed to ensure balance on the committees and committee announcements are made in April of each year. Interested members can send email to [email protected].
CHAPTERS
Is there a fee to join a state chapter?
State chapter membership is a member benefit. Members may select one primary chapter as their chapter affiliation to receive news, announcements, social, and education information when joining. If they would like to join additional state chapters, the cost is $30 per chapter.
Is there a limit to the number of state chapters a member can join?
There is currently no limit, but voting privileges are restricted to the primary chapter and district, with a single vote in national elections.
How many states have active chapters?
For a listing of ACHCA active state chapters, click here.
What is the function of the state chapters?
State chapters are a local resource for our members. They host local events, fundraisers, conferences, and some publish their own state newsletters and websites. We strongly encourage our members to be as active as possible in their state chapter.
If I want to start up a state chapter, who do I contact?
To start a state chapter, please contact [email protected].
How can I find a chapter near me?
To contact a local chapter, click here.
How do the chapters operate?
Each chapter has its own set of officers (i.e. President, Vice President, etc.). Chapters have their own charter and bylaws. Elections are held each year for chapter officers.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT and CONTINUING EDUCATION
Does ACHCA offer education programs?
We offer NAB-approved educational programs through our Annual Convocation, Chapters, and webinars. To learn more about ACHCA’s educational offerings, please click here.
What are the CNHA and CALA certification?
A CNHA is a Certified Nursing Home Administrator and a CALA is a Certified Assisted Living Administrator. ACHCA no longer offers the CNHA and CALA exams. Individuals who previously earned these credentials will be able to keep and renew them. For more information about certification renewal, click here.
What is Advancement to Fellow?
Advancement to Fellow represents the highest level of membership in ACHCA. It is the recognition of professional achievement and continuous adherence to the ethical and professional standards of ACHCA. To learn more about becoming an ACHCA Fellow, click here.
What is the difference between becoming ACHCA certified and becoming an ACHCA Fellow?
Advancement to Fellow represents your service to the field of long term care whereas professional certification is based on experience and specialty knowledge. You must be and maintain membership in ACHCA to be a Fellow.
Do I have to be a member to become a Fellow?
Yes, those interested in becoming an ACHCA Fellow must have a minimum of two years as a voting member, in good standing, of ACHCA. Click here for more information on membership.
How does the FACHE credential differ from the FACHCA credential?
The FACHE credential is geared toward acute care executives and offered through the American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE) whereas the FACHCA credential is for long term care administrators, offered through ACHCA.
What are webinars?
Webinar is short for Web-based seminar, a presentation, lecture, workshop or seminar that is transmitted over the Web.
How do I know if the CE's ACHCA offers are approved in my state?
ACHCA’s CE offerings are approved by the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB). Most states accept NAB approved CE. Check with your state board if you have questions regarding a particular CE offering.
I have not received my certificate for my continuing education. Who do I contact?
ACHCA webinars are uploaded directly to the NAB CE Registry. Certificates can be accessed from the NAB website. For a member to view their certificates, they must log-in to NABVerify.
RESOURCES
Where can I find information about ACHCA's history?
ACHCA’s rich history is archived in three volumes by year. This history can be found on the web site at: click here.
Where can I find press releases and white papers about ACHCA?
The latest ACHCA news can be found by clicking here. News events covered in our member publications and press releases prior to 2012 can be found in our archives. White papers of interest can be found here.
Does ACHCA offer study guides for the NAB exam?
No. Please visit the NAB website for additional resources: click here.
Does ACHCA post resumes and/or jobs online?
ACHCA offers an online employment center called CareerLink. Its goal is to connect job seekers with employers who have jobs available in long-term care. To access CareerLink, click here.
What is ACHCA's role in the Long Term Care Professional Leadership Council (LTCPLC)?
LTCPLC was formed in 2007 in an effort to bring together key professionals who provide leadership in long term care. ACHCA was one of the founding member organizations.
EVENTS
What are the ACHCA Annual Events?
ACHCA offers one national conference each year – The Annual Convocation & Exposition is usually held in the Spring. ACHCA state chapters also host meetings and events during the year.
How do I register for ACHCA events?
Registration for national events can be found on the Events page or email [email protected]. Several ACHCA state chapters also host meetings and events. Click here to see upcoming chapter events.
I am with the media and would like to cover an ACHCA event, who do I contact?
Media representatives wishing to cover an ACHCA event must complete and submit a Media Credential Application. For more information, email [email protected].
Where do I find a listing of my state’s local events?
Click here to see upcoming chapter events. Click here for links to the state chapter websites.
PARTNERS
What is the Partnership Program?
The Partnership Program connects decision-makers and influencers in aging services with ACHCA members. There are four levels of investment for the partner to connect with the ACHCA Community and to provide brand awareness. Click here to view how you can showcase your product or service, and identify target markets across the long term care spectrum.
What opportunities does ACHCA offer for vendors at their Annual events?
Exhibit, sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available for ACHCA national events. For more information contact [email protected].
What non-conference advertising opportunities are available with ACHCA?
ACHCA provides information to our members using various digital platforms, e-newsletters, social media banners, and e-messages. Printed opportunities are limited to focused campaigns. For more information, view the media opportunities sheet or email [email protected].
ACADEMY
What is the Academy of Long Term Care Leadership and Development?
In support of the mission of ACHCA, The Academy of Long Term Care Leadership and Development advances long term care leadership excellence through generating resources to support education, research, and development.
How is The Academy managed?
The Academy of Long Term Care Leadership and Development Committee (Academy) is a Board Standing Advisory Committee established in the bylaws. Membership of the committee is comprised of no greater than 12 appointed and elected individuals.
How can I make a donation to The Academy?
Click here to view donation opportunities.
What is the David B. Oliver Legacy Society?
The David B. Oliver Legacy Society was established to create a significant financial base to enable ACHCA’s leaders to fulfill the organization’s mission of advancing excellence in long term care leadership. Click here for more information.
If I want to make a Memorial or Tribute Gift, who do I contact?
A memorial gift offers a special opportunity to remember a deceased family member, friend or colleague with a donation to ACHCA. Tributes are a way to honor a friend or family member who is celebrating a special occasion, such as a birthday, wedding, graduation, or professional accomplishment, by making a gift to ACHCA. Click here to make your gift today.
What is the Fellow Academy Promise?
Members who are Fellows of ACHCA may support our professional society by making a promise over 4 years. Click here to make your first-year gift payment today and ACHCA will invoice you each year for the next 3 years. Click here for information about becoming a Fellow.
MENTORING
What is ACHCA's Mentoring Program?
ACHCA’s National Mentoring program, launched in 2011, is open to leaders in long term care who are Professional ACHCA members employed (5 years or less) in a long term care or aging services setting. The primary focus of this program is to provide education, resources, and tools to develop relationships in order to retain future leaders in the field of long term care. Click here for more information about the mentoring program.
How does the mentoring program work?
Individuals may apply to the program and are vetted through the Mentoring subcommittee for participation. The vetting process is based on qualifications of the mentor/protégé, geographic representation, and number of applicants. Individuals will be notified regarding acceptance to the program in late February. Click here for more information about the Mentoring program.
How do I qualify to be a Protégé?
Protégés are:
- PROFESSIONAL and EMERGING PROFESSIONAL members of ACHCA.
- In attendance at ACHCA’s Annual Convocation (in order to meet face to face with your mentor).
- Currently employed within the long term care setting.
- Willing to commit to a minimum of one hour per month to meet with your mentor for the successful development of your relationship.
How do I qualify to be a Mentor?
Mentors are:
- ACHCA Fellows. Click here for information on becoming a Fellow.
- PROFESSIONAL members of ACHCA.
- In attendance at ACHCA’s Annual Convocation (in order to meet face to face with your protégé).
- Willing to commit to a minimum of one hour per month to meet with your protégé for the successful development of your relationship.
How do I apply to the mentoring program?
All applications are accepted online. The application window opens in the Fall (October) and closes in the Winter (January) so that matches can be made prior to the annual Convocation. ACHCA’s Mentor Application and ACHCA’s Protégé Application can be accessed here.
How are the mentors/protégés assigned?
Applications are reviewed by the ACHCA Mentoring Coordinator. Matches are made based on expectations/needs addressed within the application. All matches are reviewed and vetted by the ACHCA Mentoring Subcommittee before they are released to the mentors and protégés in late February.
Do I have to be a member of ACHCA to participate?
Yes, all individuals who are accepted into the ACHCA mentoring program must be a Professional or Emerging Professional member of ACHCA to participate.
Will this program assist me in finding an AIT program?
The ACHCA Mentoring program is designed to be a program for individuals who are currently working in the field of long term care. Currently, the mentoring program is not accepting students, or those actively looking for an AIT program. AIT's must be in the final 60 days of their internship to apply as a protégé.
Will this program assist me in finding employment?
The ACHCA Mentoring program is designed to be a program for members who are currently working in the field of long term care. For individuals searching for employment, please visit ACHCA’s CareerLink by clicking here or network with your colleagues in the members-only Community.
How long is the mentoring program?
The formal Mentoring program is designed to last for one year, but many relationships continue past this time frame. Each matched pair has differing needs and will formulate their relationship based on those needs.
What are the commitments to the program?
All mentors and protégés must be willing and able to attend ACHCA’s annual Convocation. This is the kickoff to the yearly program and where annual goals are set for the pair. You must also be willing to commit to a minimum of one hour per month to meet with your mentor/protégé for the successful development of your relationship. ACHCA provides an Introduction to Mentoring eLearning course and the completion of this course is required. Additionally, it is strongly encouraged that you participate in quarterly webinars, periodic surveys, and the ACHCAConnect mentoring discussion group.
Am I matched with an individual within my state?
Not all mentors and protégés will be matched with someone within their state. We do use geography as one of the matching criteria, but ACHCA focuses on matching individuals with the most compatible person available. This might not be someone within the same state. However, we do try to match within the same time zone.
Can I be a part of the program for multiple years?
Protégés are limited to one year of formal participation. However, mentors can participate for multiple years. They will need to reapply each year. For information on reapplication, please contact [email protected].
CAREER LINK
What is CareerLink?
CareerLink is a job board focused on connecting jobseekers and employers in the profession of long term care. ACHCA’s CareerLink is powered and managed by YourMembership.
Who do I contact to submit my resume or post a job on ACHCA's website?
Click here to visit the CareerLink webpage. Jobseekers can set up a free account to post their resume, search job postings and set up job alerts. Employers can create an account to post jobs and view candidate resumes.
Does ACHCA monitor job postings?
ACHCA’s CareerLink is powered and managed by YourMembership, however, job postings appear on ACHCA’s social media including Facebook, and Twitter.
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