Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the primary difference between an HFA license and a RCA license?
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An Indiana licensed Health Facility Administrator (HFA) can be the administrator of either a nursing facility (NF) or a licensed residential facility (LRF) also call a licensed assisted living.
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An Indiana licensed Residential Care Administrator (RCA) is restricted to the administration of a Licensed Residential Care Facility/licensed assisted living community. A RCA is not permitted to be the administrator of a NF.
What are the basic steps to become either an Indiana HFA or RCA?
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Education
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Possession of a baccalaureate degree or higher in any subject from an accredited institution; OR
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Possession of an associate degree in health care from an accredited institution and completion of a specialized course of study provided by HOPE or Success Development, Inc.in long term health care administration prescribed by the Indiana State Board of Health Facility Administrators; OR
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Completion of a specialized course of study provided by HOPE or Success Development, Inc. in long-term health care administration prescribed by the Indiana State Board of Health Facility Administrators.
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HFA Administrator In Training (AIT). Completion of a 1040-hour administrator-in-training program supervised by a board-certified preceptor. Additionally, a waiver of up to 30% of the AIT may be granted based on relevant experience.
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RCA Administrator In Training (AIT). Completion of a 860-hour administrator-in-training program supervised by a board-certified preceptor. Additionally, a waiver of up to 30% of the AIT may be granted based on relevant experience.
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Exams. Pass NAB Exam and Pass Indiana Jurisprudence Exam
Does HOPE guarantee students will be able to find an AIT position?
No. It can be very difficult to find an approved preceptor for your AIT. Many find this the most difficult step to complete becoming in becoming an HFA or RCA.
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Will I be paid while serving as an AIT?
Maybe. Some organizations do pay AIT’s. This is sometimes the case when the prospective AIT is employed by a NF or RCF. More often, AIT’s are not paid.
May I begin the AIT prior to meeting the educational requirement?
No.
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May I take the NAB or Indiana Jurisprudence Exam before completing the AIT?
No.
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Does it matter which exam I take first?
Yes. You must pass the NAB before taking the Indiana Jurisprudence Exam.
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Helpful Links for Additional Information
Indiana State Board of Health Facilities Administrators
Indiana Licensing Information
HFA & RCA Applications and Instructions
Temporary Permits
Preceptor Applicants
Provisional Licenses
Administrator-in-Training Program
Waiver of the Administrator-in-Training Program
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