ACHP-SW (NASW) - Advanced Certified Hospice & Palliative Social Worker

The ACHP-SW certification is designed for experienced social workers who specialize in hospice and palliative care. This certification indicates advanced competence and expertise in providing psychosocial support to individuals and families facing terminal illness and end-of-life issues.

Completion Time: Preparation time varies based on prior experience and education in hospice and palliative social work.

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• A Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

• State licensure as a social worker.

• A minimum of two years of post-MSW hospice and palliative social work experience.

• Demonstration of 20 contact hours of continuing education in hospice and palliative care.

• Adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and the NASW Standards for Palliative & End of Life Care.

Cost: $165 for NASW or NCHPP members, $450 for non-members 

Certification Process

Obtain an MSW degree and state licensure in social work.

Gain post-MSW work experience in hospice and palliative care settings.

Complete the required continuing education hours focused on hospice and palliative care.

Apply for the ACHP-SW certification through NASW or a recognized credentialing organization.

Meet the eligibility criteria and submit documentation of education and experience.

ACHP-SW certification usually requires renewal every 2 years, which involves obtaining continuing education credits focused on hospice and palliative care and professional practice.

Continuing education for ACHP-SW certified professionals may include topics such as grief and loss, ethical issues in end-of-life care, pain management, cultural competence in palliative care, and advances in hospice care.

For specific information regarding Advanced Certified Hospice & Palliative Social Worker certification, including eligibility criteria, continuing education requirements, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) or other relevant professional organizations. These entities provide comprehensive resources and standards for social workers specializing in hospice and palliative care.

Career Opportunities

ACHP-SW certified professionals typically work in hospice programs, palliative care settings, hospitals, and home care services.

They provide counseling, facilitate advance care planning, offer bereavement support, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive end-of-life care.

The NASW also offers the following certifications:

• Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW)

• Advanced Social Worker in Gerontology (ASW-G)

• Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM)

• Certified Hospice & Palliative Social Worker (CHP-SW)

• Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)

• Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC)

• Clinical Social Worker in Gerontology (CSW-G)

• Social Worker in Gerontology (SW-G)