Certifying boards moving to online testing

Some boards are finding computer-based exams a smart alternative to paper tests.

By Damon Adams, AMNews staff. May 19, 2003.

Put away that No. 2 pencil and scoot up to the computer screen.

More medical specialty boards are offering certification and recertification tests via computer, moving away from paper and pencil tests to high-tech exams.

On May 6, the American Board of Internal Medicine began offering computer-based testing for physicians recertifying in internal medicine. On July 11, the American Board of Family Practice will introduce computer exams to a portion of its candidates for certification and recertification. And on Nov. 10, the American Board of Preventive Medicine will start using computers for certification tests.

"The move toward computerized examinations is a big move for us. We've had an overwhelming response," said James C. Puffer, MD, executive director of the ABFP.

Some certifying boards already use computer formats for recertification, said Stephen Miller, MD, MPH, executive vice president of the American Board of Medical Specialties.

The three boards that are switching to computer exams said many doctors want to use computers instead of paper and pencil. The boards can save money by booking time for tests at computer centers across the country rather than renting out large ballrooms at hotels for traditional exams. Questions are the same on computer and paper.