CHP-SW

It is designed for social workers practicing in hospice and palliative care who want national recognition as specialists. The source lists a BSW as the required degree for the CHP-SW, while the advanced ACHP-SW credential lists an MSW. It falls under the Advanced Practice Specialty Credentials, which the source describes as available to all qualified social workers.

Based on the source, no. It states that Advanced Practice Specialty Credentials are available to all qualified social workers, and that only the ACSW and DCSW credentials are limited to NASW members. Confirm your individual eligibility with the credentialing body before applying, since licensing and other requirements are not detailed in this source.

Renewal for specialty certifications is every two years. The source also notes that email reminders are sent prior to the expiration date, and that a specialty certification renewal form is available for download. Keep your contact information current so you receive the reminder and avoid a lapse in your credential.

Both sit in the Hospice & Palliative category. The source lists a BSW as the required degree for the CHP-SW and an MSW for the Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (ACHP-SW). The advanced credential therefore reflects a higher degree requirement. Both are renewed every two years under the specialty certification renewal cycle.

No. This is independent study material written for candidates searching for information about the CHP-SW. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any certifying or professional association. Always verify eligibility, application procedures, fees, and renewal requirements directly with the credentialing body, and treat this page as a study aid only.

Start with the domains that define hospice and palliative practice: psychosocial assessment of seriously ill patients and families, advance care planning and goals-of-care communication, grief and bereavement, interdisciplinary team collaboration, and ethical and cultural considerations at end of life. Build a study order around your weakest area rather than reviewing what you already handle daily.

Two frequent problems are over-relying on general clinical social work knowledge instead of hospice-specific reasoning, and studying content in isolation without connecting it to family systems and team dynamics. A third is neglecting bereavement and ethical decision-making, which are easy to underestimate. Practice applying concepts to realistic scenarios rather than memorizing definitions.

The source does not specify exam length, format, passing score, fees, or a recommended study timeline, so no official preparation hours can be quoted here. A practical approach is to spread review over several weeks, cover each practice domain once, then spend the remaining time on scenario-based practice and reviewing your weaker areas.