Handbook and Application

Certification is awarded by the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy indicating that the candidate has met the outlined PAAPC practice requirements and is an Advanced Practitioner as set forth by the organization. Those who achieve this status may use the initials PAAPC after their names. PAAPC is not a required certification to hold a position as a Patient Advocate, but it does indicate achievement of competencies at an advanced level.

This handbook is designed to assist healthcare consumer advocates interested in applying for the PAAPC designation. It contains information on how to acquire the PAAPC designation. To avoid problems with the processing of your application, please follow the guidelines outlined in this handbook and comply with the published deadlines.

To apply for the PAAPC designation, download the application forms, or contact the SHCA offices to request a current copy by mail. Please direct all questions to the SHCA offices at (312) 422-3700 or shca@aha.org. Completed applications, along with all supporting documentation and the appropriate application and exam fees should be mailed to:

PAAPC Review Board
SHCA/AHA
One N Franklin, Ste 2800
Chicago, IL 60606

SHCA will confirm receipt of the completed application to the email address provided by the candidate. Applications will then be reviewed by PAAPC Review Board to ensure eligibility requirements have been met prior to the candidate being notified of approval to sit for the interview. Please allow up to ten (10) business days for the PAAPC application to be processed.

Click here to download a copy of the PAAPC Handbook.