A certification exclusively for healthcare exhibit marketing professionals, Certified Manager of Exhibits-Healthcare, has been created by the Trade Show Exhibitors Association in conjunction with the Healthcare Convention and Exhibitors Association. The designation program was unveiled at HCEA's annual meeting in Philadelphia, June 9 to 12.

The program, a spinoff of TSEA's CME (Certified Manager of Exhibits) credential, creates a designation for exhibitors who work in medical meetings, which is the largest segment of the convention industry — and the most regulated. “Healthcare exhibit marketing is such a highly regulated industry and has such a unique attendee base that the HCEA board of directors increasingly became convinced that it merited a certification,” says Eric Allen, HCEA executive vice president. The Certified Manager of Exhibits is the only association-sponsored certification program that sets professional standards for exhibit management and marketing. The new CME-H designation is the first industry-specific program and the one that is most relevant for exhibitors who participate in healthcare conventions.

HCEA will offer continuing education units at its annual meeting and other HCEA-sponsored educational programs and those credits can be used toward the certification. Participants earn 2 CEU points for every 10 hours of education at HCEA events as opposed to 1 point per 10 hours at other education programs. To earn the CME-H designation, applicants must obtain at least 7 CEU points. Relevant work experience and meetings industry achievements (speaking engagements, published articles, etc.) can also be applied toward the certification.

The certification will allow healthcare exhibitors to further their education, comply with healthcare industry regulations, and gain recognition for their expertise.

To enroll in the CME-H certification, go to www.hcea.org. There is a one-time fee of $100 to apply.