CDFM-H: Certified Defense Financial Manager – Healthcare
In this sectionCDFM-H™: Your Next Step in Leading Military and Federal Health Operations
SDFM’s newest specialty credential, the CDFM-H™, is designed for defense financial professionals supporting the complex and mission-critical work of the Military Health System (MHS). Developed in collaboration with the Defense Health Agency (DHA), the CDFM-H demonstrates advanced knowledge and strategic leadership in managing resources within defense healthcare operations.
This certification is ideal for DHA leaders, professionals working in DoD hospitals or clinics, and those in roles that support the healthcare side of defense operations. It is also relevant for financial managers at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agencies with significant healthcare missions.
The CDFM-H builds on the foundational competencies of the Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM™) and confirms a candidate’s expertise across four key domains:
• Strategic Planning
• Management Controls
• Operational Tasks
• CFO Leadership
Many thanks to our CDFM-H Subject Matter Experts
The CDFM-H pilot testing has concluded, and we are now in the process of finalizing the exam. We sincerely thank all the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) who participated in the development of the CDFM-H. Your valuable feedback and expertise played a crucial role in shaping the CDFM Healthcare exam!
Congratulations
Congratulations to the Inaugural CDFM-H™ Certificants!
The Society of Defense Financial Management (SDFM) proudly recognizes the inaugural group of Certified Defense Financial Manager – Healthcare (CDFM-H) certificants. These trailblazers successfully passed the pilot exam and earned the newest specialty credential in the CDFM portfolio.
“The launch of the CDFM-H specialty credential marks a pivotal moment in our mission to empower defense financial managers with the advanced expertise required to lead in the evolving landscape of defense healthcare. As the Military Health System transforms to meet new demands, the CDFM-H ensures our professionals are not just prepared—they are equipped to drive innovation, uphold accountability, and lead with integrity at every level.”
— Rich Brady, CEO, Society of Defense Financial Management
Allen Guzman, CDFM, CDFM-H
Amy Nodine Sulog, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Benjamin Young, CDFM, CDFM-H
David Cannon CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Dorothy Goring-Briley, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Dustin Mullins, CDFM, CDFM-H
Geralyn Csizmar, CDFM, CDFM-H
Harry Qui, CDFM, CDFM-H
Huy Nguyen, CDFM, CDFM-H
Jacob Casserino, CDFM, CDFM-H
James Hancock, CDFM, CDFM-H
Jason Hipwell, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Jennifer Miller, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Jose Rivera, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Joseph Carothers, CDFM, CDFM-H
Kathryn Buckland, CDFM, CDFM-H
Kevin Brown, CDFM, CDFM-H
Laura Newell, CDFM, CDFM-H
Lissa Barnes, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Mario Torres, CDFM, CDFM-H
Melissa Simmons, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Michael Richards, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Paul Graves, CDFM, CDFM-H
Peter Houhoulis, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Scott LaRocca, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Thitirat Mhanaojyakorn, CDFM, CDFM-H
Tracy Kingery, CDFM, CDFM-H
Walter Ruggles, CDFM, CDFM-A, CDFM-H
Zachary Eoute, CDFM, CDFM-H
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the operational CDFM Healthcare exam be available?
The operational CDFM Healthcare exam will be available in early 2026.
Who will be eligible to take the CDFM Healthcare exam?
All Active CDFMs and CDFM-As will be eligible to take the CDFM Healthcare exam.
Will there be a cost to take the CDFM Healthcare exam?
Each attempt at the CDFM Healthcare exam costs $119, which is consistent with the pricing of other CDFM exams.
How will the CDFM Healthcare exam be administered?
Candidates can take the Healthcare exam through either online live-proctored testing or in person at Pearson VUE testing locations worldwide, as with other CDFM exams.
What will be the format of the CDFM Healthcare exam?
The CDFM Healthcare exam consists of 90 multiple-choice items: 75 scored items and 15 unscored items.
How will I register to take the CDFM Healthcare exam when it becomes available?
When the finalized CDFM Healthcare exam is released, you can apply to take it as a specialty add-on to the CDFM in your SDFM account.
How can I prepare for the CDFM Healthcare exam?
Supporting materials will be made available to help you prepare for the CDFM-H exam. Additional details will be shared once the program officially launches.