Administrative Changes to Medical Physics Part 1 Qualifying Exam Benefit Candidates
2022:15(5):14
The ABR recently adjusted the rules related to the ABR MP Part 1 Exam administration and scoring. The new methodology benefits candidates by allowing more flexibility in when each section of the exam can be taken (or retaken, if needed).
“I think this is a very positive change that will give our trainees additional (and greatly appreciated) flexibility in navigating their path to certification,” said Jay Burmeister, PhD, chief of physics at the Karmanos Cancer Center, Wayne State University School of Medicine. “This along with the recent adjustment in Part 1 Exam timing are clear indications that the ABR is doing whatever it can to accommodate the needs of its stakeholders and improve the examination process.”
Previously, candidates were required to register for and take the general and clinical sections of the exam at the same time. Now, new and returning candidates may register for and take general physics only, clinical physics only, or general and clinical physics at the same time.
In addition, each section of the exam will be evaluated independently. Previously, candidates who failed the general section of the exam were required to retake the entire exam. Candidates who failed the clinical section were required to retake only the clinical section. For all future administrations, candidates who fail a section of the exam must retake only the section (or sections) that they have failed, until they pass or their application expires.
“We like the flexibility of the new option, as the student can best focus on the classroom activities, and best prepare for the Part 1, general,” said Eric Klein, PhD, chief of physics at the Rhode Island Hospital.
For more information about the Part 1 Exam, please see our website.
