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FAQs for Employers

Q. What is the CDMS Commission?

A. The CDMS Commission is the only independent and nationally accredited organization that certifies disability management specialists. Through sound testing backed by scientific research, continuing education, and a strict code of ethics, the Commission validates the core knowledge and competency of these experts.

Q. What is the CDMS credential?

A. The CDMS credential is certification for disability management specialists accredited by the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE). By attaining the CDMS credential, professionals demonstrate that they possess the knowledge, professional background, and expertise to practice competently in the disability management field.

Q. Why should employers hire a CDMS?

A. The CDMS credential comes with assurance. A CDMS contributes greatly to the human capital balance, representing all interests in the workplace. Further, a CDMS commits to continuing education to stay current with best practices, evidence-based programs, and trends in this dynamic and evolving field.

Q. What role can a CDMS play in workforce management solutions, particularly around absenteeism?

A. A CDMS contributes positively to workplace programs aimed at intervention and prevention. Not only can a CDMS intervene when an employee becomes ill or injured and is off work, but will also implement prevention programs to avoid incidents that cause absences.

Q. Is there another option for those who practice or are responsible for disability management programs and services, but who do not possess the traditional educational and practice background required to become a CDMS?

A. Many come to the field from a variety of backgrounds, gathering experience as they move into these positions. In recognition of this growing trend, the CDMS Commission has created a new designation: the Associate Disability Management Specialist (ADMS). The pathway for achieving the ADMS is through the new Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC).

Q. How do employers benefit from having a CDMS or ADMS on board?

A. Whether working internally with the employer, through a third party, or as an outside consultant, a CDMS provides unique experience and perspective on workplace solutions to improve employee health and productivity. A CDMS collaborates with other professionals in complementary disciplines such as risk, benefits, human resources, occupational health, and safety in a team approach to workplace programs. Whether one’s name includes the CDMS certification or the ADMS designation, it carries the assurance of being held to a set standard of knowledge and skills.

FAQs for CDMS Candidates

Q. Why should I become a CDMS?

A. By attaining the Certified Disability Management Specialist credential, you demonstrate to employers your ability to contribute to workplace programs in integrated disability and absence management. Certification distinguishes you as an experienced and competent professional.

Q. How is the CDMS different from other credentials?

A. The CDMS is the only nationally accredited certification that is specifically geared toward disability management. The knowledge, skills, and competencies of the CDMS credentialed professional address the needs of employers and employees in the workplace today. A variety of disciplines come together under the CDMS umbrella to improve employee health and productivity and to mitigate the impact of disability and absence on employers and employees.

Q. What is the process to become certified?

A. The Commission provides The CDMS Guide for Certification (pdf), which explains the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the examination schedule.

Q. What resources does the CDMS Commission provide?

A. The Commission has created the CDMS Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC) a comprehensive online learning program that is available for purchase. The curriculum is not necessarily intended as an exam preparation course but could be used in this manner. Based on the Commission’s 2009 Role & Function Study, it is a unique educational resource within the disability management field for current practitioners and those who are interested in improving their knowledge of current best practices.

Q. Once I pass the exam, how do I promote my certification?

A. Use of the CDMS credential is reserved exclusively for those who have met all eligibility criteria and successfully taken and passed the certification examination. Once you have passed the exam, you may use the CDMS credential after your name. To establish your credibility and professional competency, you may also identify yourself as a CDMS in your correspondence, curriculum vitae, and other professional materials.

Q. If I do not meet the education requirements for the CDMS, what option do I have?

A. In response to increased need among disability management practitioners, the CDMS Commission has created an Associate Disability Management Specialist (ADMS) designation. The ADMS is an interim step for those who already practice in the field and intend to fulfill the education requirements for the full CDMS credential within five years. Applicants for the ADMS must successfully complete all five modules of the CKC and achieve a minimum passing score of 80 percent on exam questions at the conclusion of each domain module.