At the top of this page, you’ll find a button that provides full access to the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) practice test. Directly below it, there’s a link to a comprehensive practice test intended for a detailed review. These tests are essential tools for demonstrating your skills, pinpointing areas for improvement, and fine-tuning your study strategy.

To enhance your preparation further, particularly in topics that require additional attention, we have crafted specialized quizzes. These are carefully designed to target specific aspects of the CHFM exam, ensuring a focused and efficient study experience.

Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) Domain Exams

The Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) exam is designed to validate the competency and knowledge base of professionals overseeing the physical environment of healthcare facilities. 

Here’s a breakdown of the different domains covered in the exam:

Domain 1: Compliance

  • Number of Questions: 33
  • Focus Areas: This domain covers the understanding and application of relevant codes, standards, and guidelines that ensure the safety and security of the healthcare environment. It includes knowledge of life safety, fire safety, and emergency preparedness regulations.

Welcome to your CHFM Domain 1: Compliance

Domain 2: Healthcare Project Management

  • Number of Questions: 18
  • Focus Areas: Focuses on the skills necessary for effective project management within a healthcare setting, including planning, execution, and closure of projects. It emphasizes on ensuring projects meet health standards, timelines, and budget requirements.

Welcome to your CHFM Domain 2: Healthcare Project Management

Domain 3: Maintenance and Operations

  • Number of Questions: 27
  • Focus Areas: The largest domain, focusing on the maintenance and operation of facility systems such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other critical systems. It tests knowledge on routine maintenance, energy management, and operational efficiency.

Welcome to your CHFM Domain 3: Maintenance and Operations

Domain 4: Finance Management

  • Number of Questions: 10
  • Focus Areas: Involves understanding of budgeting, financial management, and cost control strategies pertinent to facility management in a healthcare context. This domain includes capital budgeting and financial planning.

Welcome to your CHFM Domain 4: Finance Management

Domain 5: Administration

  • Number of Questions: 12
  • Focus Areas: Covers general administrative duties including compliance with healthcare regulations, leadership principles, strategic planning, and overall facility management.

Welcome to your CHFM Domain 5: Administration

Exam Domain# of QuestionsKey Focus Areas
Compliance33Life safety, fire safety, emergency preparedness regulations
Healthcare Project Management18Project planning, execution, closure within healthcare settings
Maintenance and Operations27Maintenance of HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems; energy management
Finance Management10Budgeting, financial management, cost control in healthcare facilities
Administration12Regulation compliance, leadership, strategic planning

Additional Important Information:

  • Total Number of Questions: 100 multiple-choice questions
  • Exam Duration: 2 hours
  • Eligibility: Typically requires a blend of education and specific professional experience in healthcare facility management.
  • Preparation Materials: ASHE (American Society for Healthcare Engineering) provides a range of resources, including study guides, practice tests, and preparatory courses.

Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) Exam Breakdown

The Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) Exam is designed to assess competency in healthcare facility management, covering areas such as compliance, planning, design and construction, maintenance and operations, finance, and administration. The CHFM certification, offered by the American Hospital Association Certification Center (AHA-CC), is recognized internationally and demonstrates mastery in the healthcare facility management profession​.

  • Eligibility Requirements: Candidates for the CHFM exam must meet certain educational and professional experience criteria, which vary based on the level of formal education—from a high school diploma to a baccalaureate degree—and include specific years of experience in a healthcare setting and in a management or supervisory role​​.
  • Exam Format and Registration: The exam consists of 110 multiple-choice questions, covering the five key competency areas, and must be completed within two hours. The registration fee is USD 275 for members of ASHE/AHA and USD 425 for non-members. To register, candidates must submit an online application, which might be subject to an audit by AHA-CC​.
  • Preparation and Study Resources: Preparation resources include various study materials like the CHFM Exam Review Program offered by ASHE, which provides lectures and practice test questions. ASHE also recommends specific reading materials and e-learning courses focused on healthcare facility standards and safety codes.
  • Recertification: CHFM certification must be renewed every three years, requiring 45 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or by retaking the exam. Recertification fees are lower for ASHE members.

How to Become CHFM Certified

To become a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM), you’ll need to follow several steps from registration to taking the exam:

  1. Confirm Eligibility: First, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Depending on your educational background, you will need a combination of healthcare-specific experience and managerial experience. For instance, with a baccalaureate degree, you must have three years of related engineering experience and three years of management experience in a healthcare facility​.
  2. Register for the Exam: Apply for the CHFM exam through the American Hospital Association Certification Center. You will need to submit an application detailing your qualifications and pay the exam fee. The fees are USD 275 for ASHE members and USD 425 for non-members​.
  3. Prepare for the Exam: Utilize study materials and resources provided by ASHE, including the CHFM Exam Review Program and practice exams. Effective preparation often includes a combination of self-study and structured review courses​​.
  4. Schedule and Take the Exam: Once your application is accepted, schedule your exam at a PSI testing center. The exam covers critical areas such as compliance, planning, maintenance and operations, finance, and administration​​.
  5. Pass the Exam and Receive Certification: After passing the exam, the AHA Certification Center will issue your CHFM certification, which is valid for three years. You’ll receive your certificate within two to four weeks of the exam date​.
  6. Maintain and Renew Certification: To maintain your certification, you must earn 45 continuing education credits over a three-year period or retake and pass the exam. The renewal process also involves a fee, which is lower for ASHE members​.

Our Experience Teaching CHFM Candidates To Pass The Exam

At Career Employer, developing our Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) practice tests has been an exciting journey filled with significant accomplishments and challenges. Inspired by the diverse range of topics covered by the exam, we have tailored our resources to meet the specific needs of our learners.

Our approach has been thoughtfully designed to guarantee that each student is thoroughly prepared for success on the exam. Our commitment to delivering a well-rounded educational experience is evident in the extensive detail and careful attention we devote to our practice materials, underscoring our dedication to our students’ achievement.

Teaching the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) certification can be a rewarding but demanding role for a lecturer, primarily because it involves equipping professionals with the skills necessary to ensure that healthcare facilities operate efficiently and safely. From a lecturer’s perspective, several key aspects are crucial in managing such a program effectively:

  1. Comprehensive Knowledge: A lecturer needs to have a deep understanding of all aspects of healthcare facility management, including compliance, finance, maintenance, and safety. This comprehensive knowledge ensures that the information conveyed is not only accurate but also relevant to the practical demands of the job.
  2. Up-to-Date Information: Healthcare regulations and technologies evolve rapidly. A lecturer must stay updated with the latest standards and innovations in healthcare facility management to provide students with current and applicable knowledge.
  3. Interactive Learning: Given the complex nature of the material, employing interactive teaching methods such as case studies, simulations, and guest lectures from industry professionals can enhance understanding and engagement. This approach helps in translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
  4. Resource Utilization: Utilizing a variety of resources, including textbooks, industry journals, online courses, and professional networks, is crucial. For example, resources from the American Hospital Association (AHA) and the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE), which offer guidelines and courses on CHFM, are invaluable.
  5. Assessment and Feedback: Regular assessments and constructive feedback help ensure that students not only absorb the material but are also able to apply it effectively. This might involve practical exams, project work, or real-world problem-solving sessions.
  6. Professional Development: Lecturers themselves must engage in continuous professional development to keep their teaching skills and industry knowledge sharp. This could involve attending conferences, participating in additional certifications, or engaging with professional communities.
  7. Adaptability and Empathy: Understanding the diverse backgrounds and learning styles of students is key. A lecturer must be adaptable in their teaching methods and empathetic to the challenges faced by students, especially those who might be working professionals.

At Career Employer, our Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) certification practice tests are the result of immense dedication from a team of expert healthcare managers. Each team member brings extensive experience and specialized expertise, crucial in preparing candidates for success on the CHFM exam. Their profound knowledge has successfully guided over 1000 healthcare facility managers to achieve their CHFM certifications, with particular attention to the detailed needs of medical assistants.

Our team comprises seasoned experts, each with at least a decade of specialized experience in healthcare facility management. This wealth of expertise ensures that our practice materials are developed by leading authorities in the field, making them extraordinarily effective in preparing candidates for their certification exams. Our steadfast commitment to excellence ensures that users of our materials are comprehensively prepared, equipping them to pursue their certification goals with confidence and assurance.

Effective Study Strategies and Methods

Preparing for the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) exam requires a strategic approach to ensure comprehensive coverage of all relevant topics and maximize your chances of success. 

Here are some effective strategies and resources to help you prepare:

  1. Structured Review Courses: Enroll in the CHFM Exam Review Course offered by the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE). These courses are designed to cover the five key competency areas of the CHFM exam and include a combination of lectures, practice test questions, and study materials to help you gain confidence and identify your knowledge gaps​.
  2. E-Learning and On-Demand Resources: Utilize e-learning courses and on-demand resources provided by ASHE, which allow you to study at your own pace and access extensive educational materials anytime. These resources often offer detailed insights into specific areas like compliance, maintenance, and operations, and include practice exercises to test your knowledge​​.
  3. Self-Assessment Tools: Take advantage of self-assessment exams to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses. These tools provide a realistic overview of your readiness for the actual exam, helping you focus your studies more effectively on areas where you need improvement​.
  4. Reading and Reference Materials: Review the recommended reading materials and reference handbooks such as the NFPA 101 and NFPA 99 handbooks, and the FGI Guidelines for the Design and Construction of Hospitals. These documents are crucial for understanding the regulatory and compliance aspects that are critical for the exam.
  5. Forums and Community Support: Engage with online forums and communities such as those available through ASHE’s website. These platforms allow you to connect with peers who are also preparing for the exam and share insights, tips, and resources​​.
  6. Regular Practice: Regularly practicing with simulated exam questions can help you become familiar with the format and types of questions that will be on the actual CHFM exam. This practice can also help you manage your time effectively during the exam​.

Cost

ItemCost for MembersCost for Non-Members
Exam FeeUSD 400USD 550
Preparation Course (Per Event)USD 445USD 545
Recertification FeeUSD 135USD 225
Late Recertification Fee+USD 50+USD 50

The cost to become a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) varies depending on several factors, including membership status in the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE), exam preparation, and potential recertification.

  • Exam Cost:
    • For ASHE members, the exam fee is USD 400.
    • For non-members, the fee is USD 550.
  • Preparation and Training: Costs for preparation courses can vary. For example, an exam review program costs USD 445 for members and USD 545 for non-members.
  • Recertification: Recertification is required to maintain your CHFM credential. For ASHE members, the renewal fee is USD 135, and for non-members, it’s USD 225. There is an additional late fee of USD 50 if the renewal is submitted within 30 days after the expiration date.

You might also consider costs for study materials and possible travel expenses for attending preparation courses or the exam if not available locally.

These fees do not include potential additional study materials or any other incidental expenses you may incur during your preparation or recertification process. Always check the latest information directly from the ASHE or the American Hospital Association (AHA) to ensure you have the most current details on fees and requirements​.

Reliable Study Materials and Resources

Here are some of the best online resources to help you prepare for the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) certification exam:

  1. ASHE’s CHFM Exam Review Program: The American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) offers in-depth e-learning and live online courses designed to strengthen your knowledge in the key competency areas of the CHFM exam. These courses include simulated practice test questions and study materials but note that course fees do not include the CHFM exam fee nor register you for the exam. 
  2. Mometrix Test Preparation: This platform offers a CHFM Study Guide that includes practice questions, video tutorials, and detailed study lessons. Mometrix also provides CHFM flashcards to help break down complex subjects into easily understandable concepts.
  3. CHFM Prep: This subscription-based service provides a pathway to CHFM exam preparation with unlimited access to practice questions and detailed feedback on answers. It costs USD 27 a month and offers personalized progress tracking and unlimited exam attempts. 
  4. Free CHFM Practice Tests: Websites like Mometrix offer free practice tests updated for 2024, allowing you to gauge your readiness for the actual exam. This can be particularly helpful for self-assessment and identifying areas of improvement.
  5. American Hospital Association (AHA): The AHA offers a CHFM Candidate Handbook that outlines the structure of the exam and serves as a guide for your preparation. It also hosts the CHFM exam itself, providing essential information about registration and eligibility. 
  6. Health Care Facility Management (HCFM) Handbook Series: Available through ASHE, this series includes publications on a variety of topics relevant to healthcare facility management, such as safety, compliance, and operations management. These handbooks can be a valuable part of your study materials. More details can be found on the ASHE Resource Library.
  7. Online Forums and Study Groups: Engaging with peers through forums such as LinkedIn groups or specialized online forums for facility managers can provide insights, tips, and additional resources shared by those who have taken the CHFM exam or are also preparing for it.
  8. Professional Development Webinars and Workshops: ASHE and other professional organizations frequently host webinars and workshops that cover topics relevant to the CHFM exam. These can be excellent opportunities to learn from experts in the field and ask questions in real-time.
  9. Library Resources at Professional Organizations: Many professional healthcare and facility management organizations offer access to digital libraries that include journals, articles, and monographs relevant to the CHFM exam topics. Membership in these organizations often grants access to these valuable resources.

These resources complement the initial suggestions, offering a comprehensive approach to your exam preparation through reading materials, interactive learning, and community support.

Tips for Exam Day

To perform your best on the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) exam, here are some strategies tailored to the exam’s format and demands:

  1. Understand the Exam Structure: The CHFM exam consists of 110 multiple-choice questions that cover a broad range of topics, including compliance, planning, design, and maintenance. Knowing the structure helps in better preparation and ensures you are not caught off-guard on exam day​​.
  2. Focused Study Areas: Your preparation should include a strong focus on compliance, planning, design and construction, maintenance and operations, and finance and administration. These core areas reflect the key competencies needed for effective healthcare facility management​.
  3. Practice Tests: Engaging in multiple practice tests is crucial. They not only familiarize you with the format of the exam but also help in identifying areas that need more attention. Websites like CHFM Prep and Testmocks offer a wide range of practice questions and mock exams that mirror the actual exam conditions​​.
  4. Exam Day Strategy: On the exam day, manage your time effectively to ensure you can answer all questions without rushing. Start by tackling questions you are confident about to secure quick wins. Pay close attention to keywords in questions that might indicate the correct answer and use a process of elimination for tougher questions​​.
  5. Dealing with Anxiety: Pre-exam nerves are normal, but they can be mitigated by thorough preparation and practice. Familiarity with the exam’s format and the types of questions asked can significantly reduce anxiety​.
  6. Resources and Support: Utilize resources from reputable sites and programs. ASHE, for instance, provides detailed insights and resources that are designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of the exam content and the best practices for taking a computer-based test​​.

Incorporating these strategies into your exam preparation can enhance your readiness and confidence, giving you a solid foundation to successfully achieve CHFM certification.

Post-Exam: Next Steps

After completing the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) exam, there are several strategic steps you can take to capitalize on your efforts and prepare for future possibilities, whether you pass or need to retake the exam.

  1. Review Immediate Feedback and Score Report: If you took the exam on a computer, you’ll receive immediate preliminary results. A more detailed score report will follow by email from PSI, which will simply state ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ and provide performance details for each section. This information is crucial for understanding your strengths and areas for improvement, particularly if you need to retake the exam​​.
  2. Certification and Recertification: If you pass the CHFM exam, congratulations! You will receive your certification and details on how to maintain it, which includes earning continuing education units (CEUs) to stay certified. The CHFM certification is valid for three years, after which you’ll need to recertify to ensure you remain compliant with industry standards and keep your knowledge up to date​​.
  3. Engage with Professional Development: Join forums and online communities such as the American Society for HealthCare Engineering (ASHE) to connect with peers, share experiences, and gain insights into the latest trends and best practices in healthcare facility management. Networking can provide valuable opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
  4. Prepare for a Retake if Necessary: If you don’t pass, use the score report to analyze which areas need improvement. Consider engaging more deeply with available study materials, joining study groups, or even seeking mentorship from current CHFMs. Many resources are available through ASHE, including online courses and practice exams that can help you better prepare for your next attempt​​.
  5. Continuous Learning and Improvement: Regardless of the exam outcome, it’s important to view this as a continuous learning journey. Whether it’s preparing for recertification or enhancing your knowledge in areas like compliance, maintenance, finance, and administration, always seek to expand your expertise and stay updated with the evolving standards of healthcare facility management.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage your professional trajectory in healthcare facility management, ensuring that you not only meet the current standards but also pave the way for future success in your career.

References

  1. American Hospital Association. “Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM).” American Hospital Association, https://www.aha.org/career-resources/certification-center/chfm.
  2. Mometrix Test Preparation. “CHFM Practice Test.” Mometrix, https://www.mometrix.com/academy/chfm-practice-test/.
  3. American Society for Health Care Engineering. “CHFM Exam Prep Resources.” ASHE, https://www.ashe.org/resources/chfmexamprep.
  4. eSoftSkills. “Best Path to Becoming a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM).” eSoftSkills, https://esoftskills.com/healthcare/best-path-to-becoming-a-certified-healthcare-facility-manager-chfm/.
  5. American Society for Health Care Engineering. “Certified Health Care Facility Manager Exam Review Course – Jan 2023 – Live Online Training.” ASHE, https://www.ashe.org/education-events/certified-health-care-facility-manager-exam-review-course-chfm-jan-2023-live-online-training.
  6. American Society for Health Care Engineering. “CHFM eLearning.” ASHE, https://www.ashe.org/education/chfm_elearning.
  7. American Society for Health Care Engineering. “CHFM Exam Prep.” ASHE, sponsored by Eaton, https://www.ashe.org/Eaton/CHFMexamprep.
  8. American Society for Health Care Engineering. “ASHE Academy 2022 – Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) Exam Review Program.” ASHE, https://www.ashe.org/education-events/ashe-academy-2022-certified-healthcare-facility-manager-chfm-exam-review-program.
  9. “CHFM Exam Prep: What to Expect.” YouTube, uploaded by user name, 9a4Ufp7TZPw, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9a4Ufp7TZPw.
  10. American Hospital Association. “Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) – Overview.” American Hospital Association, https://www.aha.org/node/687708.
  11. American Hospital Association. “Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM).” American Hospital Association, https://www.aha.org/topics/certified-healthcare-facility-manager-chfm.
  12. ResumeCat. “Facilities Manager Certifications.” ResumeCat, https://resumecat.com/blog/facilities-manager-certifications.
  13. CHFM Prep. “CHFM Test Questions.” CHFM Prep, https://chfmprep.com/chfm-test-questions/.
  14. “How Did You Guys Break Into Facilities Management?” Reddit, posted by username, https://www.reddit.com/r/FacilityManagement/comments/13vbcyt/how_did_you_guys_break_into_facilities_management/.
  15. Test Mocks. “CHFM – Certified Healthcare Facility Manager Exam.” Test Mocks, https://testmocks.com/exams/chfm-certified-healthcare-facility-manager-exam/.
  16. “CHFM Exam Preparation Tips.” YouTube, uploaded by user name, k-Yr8c9oFNs, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-Yr8c9oFNs.
  17. CHFM Prep. “CHFM Passing Score.” CHFM Prep, https://chfmprep.com/chfm-passing-score/.
  18. “Prepping to Take the IFMA CFM Exam in a Few Weeks.” Reddit, posted by username, https://www.reddit.com/r/FacilityManagement/comments/xd2gi3/prepping_to_take_the_ifma_cfm_exam_in_a_few_weeks/.

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