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

The Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC) from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) credential shows a dedication to the needs of patients and families and helping them maintain optimal functioning. Social workers in this specialty focus on the intersection of biology, psychology, and socio-environmental factors to help patients with their ever-changing needs. 

Social workers who are already active in a healthcare setting are eligible for this certification. There is no exam, though there is an extensive list of eligibility criteria that you must meet to be approved. 

The application fee for this certification depends on whether or not you are a member of the NASW. Non-member fees are $450. Members pay only $165.

To apply for the ​​C-SWHC certification, you can download an application online from the NASW. You must meet the following criteria: 

• Hold a master’s degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education accredited program 

• Documentation of at least two years or 3,000 hours of paid, supervised work as a social worker for an organization that works work individuals and families affected by physical limitations or medical conditions

• An active and current state license, a passing score on the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) clinical exam, or an exam-based state-issued MSW-level license

• Adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and Standards for Continuing Professional Education

The application includes multiple forms that must be completed, including a supervisory evaluation form to verify 3,000 hours of direct client-level tasks and evaluate your skills, abilities, and knowledge in the field. Your supervisor must have at least two years of post-MSW experience in healthcare social work. If this is not possible, in some cases, this form may be completed by a licensed doctor, RN, healthcare administrator, or clinical psychologist.

You must also obtain a reference from an MSW colleague. However, this cannot be an employee you supervise or the same person who fills out your supervisory evaluation form. 

It takes about six weeks to process the application. Once approved, you will receive a letter and certificate in the mail.

You must renew your C-SWHC credential every two years. To do so, you must maintain your current MSW state license and complete 20 contact hours of continuing education. You can access the renewal application online. Fees depend on whether you are a member of the NASW. Members pay $95 for renewal. Non-members pay $350.

NASW Credentialing Center FAQ

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 Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs Social Worker (C-CATODSW)

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

• Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)

• Clinical Social Worker in Gerontology (CSW-G)

• Social Worker in Gerontology (SW-G)

• Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW)