Does Extra Training Help Passing a Medical Certification Examination? Evaluation of the Time Limit Eligibility Policy

• In Event: 44.068 - How Test Takers Prepare for and Take Professional Licensure and Certification Examinations

Abstract

The time-limited eligibility policy implemented by this medical certification Board requires candidates to complete additional training to regain eligibility for applying for an examination if they haven’t been certified 7 years after residency. This study investigates the characteristics of physicians who obtained additional training. The pre- training exam performance is compared with the post-training exam performance. The results show the performance is not significantly different from the last attempt after completing additional training. The length of training, gender, age, medical school, and the number of years after residency all are not significant related to the post-training performance. The pass rate is only 29%. The training does not appear to be very efficient in improving board certifying examination performance.

Authors

• Ying Du, American Board of Pediatrics

• Linda A. Althouse, American Board of Pediatrics