Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education

The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) is a U.S.-based non-profit organization recognized as the primary accrediting body for graduate programs in healthcare management. Established on January 1, 1968, originally as the Accrediting Commission on Education for Health Services Administration (ACEHSA), CAHME adopted its current name in 2004 to reflect a strategic shift towards broader competencies in healthcare management.

Mission and Vision

CAHME's mission is to serve the public interest by advancing the quality of healthcare management education. This is achieved by setting measurable criteria for excellence, supporting and advising programs seeking accreditation, and accrediting those that meet or exceed these criteria. Its vision is to promote continuous improvement in the preparation of future healthcare leaders through competency-based education standards.

Accreditation Process

To become accredited, schools undergo a rigorous examination that includes a detailed self-study of their purpose, curriculum, student experience, and graduate success. An external peer panel conducts a thorough review and on-site evaluation, providing recommendations that form the basis for accreditation and drive program improvement.

Recognition and Partnerships

CAHME is recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and is the only organization authorized to accredit master's-level healthcare management programs in the United States and Canada. CAHME also accredits programs outside North America. It collaborates with corporate members from leading academic and healthcare institutions to establish standards for healthcare management education.

Corporate Members and Standards

CAHME works closely with organizations such as the Association of University Programs in Health Administration, American College of Healthcare Executives, and the American Hospital Association to ensure that graduates possess the necessary competencies for leadership roles in healthcare. The most recent revision of CAHME's accreditation standards was published in 2021.

Leadership and Structure

As a 501(c)(3) organization, CAHME is led by a board of directors representing diverse educational, clinical, and professional backgrounds. The organization is managed by a small staff team.

Impact and Values

CAHME's accreditation serves as a benchmark for both students and employers, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to lead in healthcare management. The organization values integrity, excellence, transparency, fairness, and recognition. It emphasizes cultural competence and diversity, striving to create an inclusive environment for professional growth.

CAHME accredits over 157 academic programs in healthcare management, focusing on areas such as healthcare leadership, quality and safety, and population health. Through its accreditation process, CAHME plays a critical role in ensuring that graduates are equipped with the practical experiences and competencies necessary to excel in the healthcare field.