Pre-Exam Resources, Easy-To-Use Platform Calm Candidates’ Nerves
2021;14(4):7
By Rodney Campbell, ABR Communications Manager
After waiting an extra year to take their oral exams because of COVID-19, candidates had a few jitters about the ABR remote platform.
“Like most examinees, I was somewhat nervous about the experience but was reassured by the favorable reviews shared by a couple of colleagues involved in the pilot exam,” said Mark Sittig, MD, a radiation oncologist practicing with Tennessee Oncology in Nashville.
Dr. Sittig took the RO Certifying Oral Exam in May. His nerves were settled a bit by ABR resources offered before he took his exam. For example, the required technical check gives candidates a chance to ensure that their exam day experience runs smoothly.
“I was pleased with the tech check before exam day, which was well run,” he said.
Omar Chohan, DO, is a vascular interventional radiologist for Great Lakes Medical Imaging and a clinical associate professor at the University at Buffalo. He took the IR Certifying Oral Exam in May.
He said the remote platform was a familiar setup, making exam day less stressful.
“The overall exam setup was seamless, just like logging in for a web conference,” Dr. Chohan said. “The exam platform was easy to use and navigate. I felt the toolbar was helpful but not necessary to interpret the images. The image quality is very good.”
Dr. Chohan praised the volunteers who served as examiners. They underwent training before exams because the platform was also new for them.
“The examiners were pleasant and easy to small talk with prior to the session,” Dr. Chohan said. “I felt they helped ease nerves. During the exam session, they were fair and helped guide you through the question. They did their job well.”
The ABR has committed to holding remote exams in 2022. Dr. Sittig said the platform is successful for many reasons, including the convenience of taking exams almost anywhere a candidate chooses.
“I was fortunate to have a great study group, and they all appreciated using the online platform as well as avoiding the expense, inconvenience, and time away from family associated with in-person exams,” he said.
