CHPLN® Feasibility Study Results: New Growth Opportunities Ahead

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The Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC) completed a Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse (CHPLN®) Feasibility Study in the spring and summer of 2025 alongside SeaCrest Consulting. The purpose of the study was to better understand interest in the certification and perceived value of the credential by Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses. The study also helped decipher how employers support and encourage certification, employer perceptions on the value of certification, and potential factors contributing to the low volume of exam takers.

Before the study was distributed, HPCC conducted several interviews and gathered detailed background information to share with certified and non-certified licensed practical nurses, licensed vocational nurses, and employers. Focus groups, moderated by SeaCrest Consulting, were also conducted to gain deeper levels of understanding regarding the unique perspectives and preferences of potential applicants and current CHPLN® certificants.

Study participants also answered specific questions based on their certification status. Current CHPLN® certificants responded that they indeed find value in obtaining certification and view the CHPLN® exam content as relevant to current clinical practice. Current CHPLN® certificants noted that earning the certification increases professional credibility, validates and improves knowledge and skills, and demonstrates expertise. Other significant findings from the study included the following:

  • Study participants who are not current CHPLN® certificants noted their reasons for not holding the credential included not meeting the experience requirements, unaware of the CHPLN® certification, and general uncertainty about exam preparation. Despite this, 72% of respondents indicated they are “very likely” or “likely” to apply in the next 1–2 years.
  • Employers who participated in the study find the certification valuable; 75% reported it is “very likely” at least one Licensed Practical Nurse from their company will seek certification in the next 1–2 years.
  • Lastly, the employer focus group respondents specifically found a higher level of critical thinking and broader understanding from CHPLN® certificants. The group also reported that CHPLN® certificants have more confidence and pride in their work and help gain the respect of Registered Nurses and other team members.

“HPCC is extremely proud to have engaged SeaCrest Consulting to conduct a feasibility study related to the CHPLN® program this year,” said HPCC Chief Executive Officer Virginia (Ginger) Marshall, MSN, ACNP-BC, ACHPN®, FPCN®. “The report and data produced through this research study enables HPCC to better understand the overall interest in the CHPLN® certification by Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses, explore exactly how employers support and encourage the certification, and measure employer perceptions regarding the value of the certification.”

HPCC staff and leadership would like to thank the hundreds of survey respondents, focus group participants, and employer representatives for providing the organization with such valuable insights to help move the CHPLN® certification forward. In the years ahead, HPCC will leverage the information gained from the study into new growth opportunities for applicants, certificants, and employers. The future is bright for the CHPLN® certification, and HPCC looks forward to continuing its role as the premier national credentialing organization that advances expert care in serious illness through the delivery of this valuable credential.