Top 10 Challenges Healthcare Professionals Face with Continuing Education & Certifications (And How to Overcome Them)

Meet Vaishnav
Jul 18
3 min read

Feeling Lost with Certifications? You're Not Alone

For U.S.-based healthcare professionals, staying licensed, competitive, and career-ready means keeping up with certifications. But between packed shifts and rising costs, many professionals hit roadblocks. At CredTALENT, we’ve helped thousands navigate these same hurdles—and we know what works.

This guide unpacks the ten most common challenges healthcare workers face when pursuing certifications—and shows how you can overcome each one strategically.

1. Too Many Certifications, Not Enough Clarity

The Problem: With dozens of credentials available, how do you know what’s truly valuable?

Our Take: Start with your end goal. Want to go into critical care? Think ACLS or CCRN. Considering international roles? NCLEX, DHA, OSCE might apply.

Pro Tip: Check job descriptions from leading employers in your field and region. The credentials they require? That’s your baseline.

2. Education Costs That Drain Your Budget

The Problem: Courses, exam fees, and prep materials add up quickly.

Our Take: Price shouldn’t be a barrier to progress. We recommend starting with hybrid programs that offer strong ROI, such as hospital-sponsored training or employer reimbursement options.

CredTALENT Tip: Always ask: Is this course nationally accredited? Is it recognized by my licensing board or HR department?

3. Worrying If Employers Will Actually Recognize Your Credential

The Problem: Some certifications look great—until hiring managers overlook them.

Our Take: Accreditation is key. Look for programs backed by trusted U.S. bodies (like the AHA, AHIMA, or your state’s board of nursing).

Inside Advice: Many hospitals prefer certifications that align with Magnet status or CMS standards. If you’re unsure—ask us. We’ll vet it for you.

4. No Time to Study Between 12-Hour Shifts

The Problem: You’re busy. Really busy.

Our Take: Flexibility is everything. On-demand, mobile-friendly, bite-sized lessons are designed for working professionals like you.

Real-World Strategy: Dedicate just 30 minutes a day, 3–4 times a week. It’s not about how long you study—it’s about how consistently.

5. Years of Experience, But Still Overlooked

The Problem: You’ve been in the field for years—but younger certified candidates get the interview.

Our Take: Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) that filter for keywords like “ACLS certified” or “CCRN.” No cert = no visibility.

Your Solution: Pair your experience with the right certification, and you immediately boost your searchability, credibility, and salary potential.

6. You Don’t Know How to Prep for the Exam

The Problem: It’s been a while since school. You’re not sure where to start.

Our Take: Learning how to study is just as important as what to study. Focus on trusted prep guides, mock exams, and manageable content chunks.

CredTALENT Strategy: We help you build a customized study roadmap—including schedules, resources, and review cycles.

7. Fear of Choosing the Wrong Course Provider

The Problem: There are hundreds of training platforms out there. Not all are legitimate.

Our Take: Before enrolling, look for the provider’s track record, refund policies, and institutional partnerships. If it's not transparent, skip it.

Red Flags to Watch: No mention of accreditation, zero verified reviews, or overhyped “guarantees.”

8. Anxiety Around Failing

The Problem: The pressure to pass can stop you from even starting.

Our Take: Start small. Begin with certifications like BLS that build confidence and create positive momentum.

What Works: Study groups, instructor-led sessions, and peer forums. You’re not in this alone—and you don’t have to go it alone.

9. You’re Taking Courses Without a Career Plan

The Problem: You’re collecting certifications—but not seeing progress.

Our Take: Every certification should align with a larger strategy: a role, a promotion, or a location change.

Roadmapping Help: At CredTALENT, we create 3–5 year career plans tailored to your specialization, salary goals, and life goals.

10. Unsure If It’ll Actually Pay Off

The Problem: Will this course really lead to more money or a better job?

Our Take: While results vary by specialty and region, professionals with certifications consistently report faster hiring, higher salaries, and better career mobility.

Bottom Line: The right certification isn’t a cost—it’s an investment in your next opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which certifications actually increase my salary? A: Specialties like CCRN, CNOR, or wound care can lead to double-digit percentage increases in annual income.

Q: Are online certifications trusted? A: Yes, if they’re from accredited sources. Look for AHA, AHIMA, HIMSS, or Red Cross backing.

Q: How do I know what certification is best for me? A: Consider your long-term role goals, licensing requirements, and job market trends. We can help you map it out.

🎯 Ready to Move Forward with the Right Healthcare Certification?

Whether you're aiming to boost your salary, land a new role—CredTALENT helps you turn your goals into reality.Access job-matching support with top employers

👉 Book a Free Career Planning Call – Talk to a real healthcare strategist