How AOBFP develops exams and how you can prepare for success
Excerpt from March 2024 AOBFP Update Newsletter
By Deb Dupnik, CAE, CCSM-A
AOBFP Director
Have you ever wondered about the rigor and process of constructing and managing the AOBFP initial certification, early entry initial certification and longitudinal assessment exams?
AOBFP exams are carefully constructed through a comprehensive, multi-phase process. This involves a team of subject matter experts (SMEs) who are all AOBFP certified, and test development specialists who design and rigorously evaluate items with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and validity.
The exam items are developed based on extensive literature review, and research, and aligned with the categories in the Table of Specifications (TOS). The TOS is created based on the results of an extensive job task analysis, which delves into the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for practicing in the specialty of family medicine.
AOBFP conducts the Job Task Analysis to support exam development with evidence-based study of the knowledge, skills and activities required of family physicians. Written examinations are designed to measure the knowledge and understanding of basic science and clinical knowledge, skills, and principles critical to the practice of family medicine. AOBFP validates and updates all exams with data from this study approximately every five years to ensure it is reflective of the current job requirements for family physicians.
Ensuring exam quality
The AOA has a dedicated department of experts in test development. Our in-house team of psychometricians, certification analysts and editorial specialists ensure the quality and credibility of AOBFP exams. Their expertise guarantees that every question is thoughtfully crafted, adhering to the highest standards of fairness, validity and reliability. When you take the AOBFP exam, you’re not just answering questions; you’re engaging with a meticulously designed assessment. Receiving a passing score is a testament to your dedication and expertise in family medicine.
Our psychometricians, working with test developers and subject matter experts (SMEs), develop valid test items that measure what’s important. We use psychometrics to assess items, assemble computer-based testing exam forms, and establish equated passing scores. Our test development processes are based on scientific rigor and established standards to meet legal and industry requirements and to ensure public safety.
AOBFP is committed to constant improvement as a testament to our dedication to individuals who are pursuing board certification in the field of family medicine. AOBFP carefully oversees the development of its test question bank, ensuring the inclusion of high-quality items while also managing the revision or retirement of outdated ones to maintain the certification’s rigor and relevance.
Powerful partnerships
MonitorEDU
AOBFP initial and early entry initial certification exams are offered through MonitorEDU, which provides computer-based testing for our high-stakes examinations so our candidates can take the test in their own homes. By providing a secure, user-friendly system to manage remote examinations, we can provide a fair and stress-free testing environment for our candidates.
The MonitorEdu platform uses standard video conferencing tools to connect with test-takers, usually on two devices (webcam and mobile cam). The platform provides professionally trained employee proctors, maintaining the highest level of exam integrity. Real-time tech support is available for students and administrators during exams, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted testing process.
CATALYST
AOBFP Longitudinal Assessment exams are offered on the CATALYST platform, which is managed by the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME). In addition to the learning opportunities that the CATALYST platform offers, assessments delivered on CATALYST provide both performance feedback and educational resources for the concept being assessed.
ACOFP
The American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) offers several options to help you prepare for exams. The online educational video library lets you view step-by-step demonstrations of over 150 osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) procedures. Use the practice questions for recertification and certification test preparation that includes over 150 multiple-choice questions with a detailed explanation of each answer. View presentations from past ACOFP Board Reviews or get back to the OMT basics. Purchase one session at a time or choose a whole set to earn CME and refresh your skills.
To relieve some of the financial burden for residents entering the field, ACOFP Foundation grants offer up to $1,400 for AOBFP exam fees and travel expenses for residents who don’t have complete funding support from their program.
Our commitment to you
Beyond logistics, these partnerships represent a continuous commitment to improvement. Your journey to AOBFP certification is a collaborative effort. These partnerships elevate your experience, making the AOBFP exam more than just an exam—it sets you apart from other family physicians.
Your AOBFP board certification is a sign of excellence, letting patients know that they can trust that you are an expert in your field. It demonstrates that you know the latest advancements in medicine and demonstrates your desire to provide the best quality care to patients.
Not all physicians become board-certified, and it is an important recognition of your commitment to going above and beyond what is required by state licensing agencies.
Helpful tips for exam prep
Early entry initial certification
The AOBFP Early Entry Initial Certification (EEIC) program allows physicians to seek specialty board certification while still completing their residency. The exam consists of 175 scored single-option multiple-choice items. There is an optional 10-minute break halfway through the exam. The exam is offered in January.
Family medicine initial certification
If you have completed or are within six months of completing a three-year residency program in family medicine, you are eligible to sit for the Written (Cognitive) Exam. The exam is held once in the spring and once in the fall. A three-and-a-half-hour exam comprised of 200 single-answer multiple-choice questions. There is an optional, 10-minute break halfway through the exam.
AOBFP longitudinal assessment
The high-stakes exam for OCC has been replaced by the annual AOBFP Longitudinal Assessment. Diplomates are required to participate in the AOBFP Longitudinal Assessment (LA) to fulfill the Component 3 requirement of OCC. The annual assessment is offered in quarterly segments.
Know what you don’t know
Many candidates develop a specific plan and time commitment for studying. Review the AOBFP Table of Specifications to understand the topics that are covered and the percentages of content from each of the stated areas that will be covered in the exam. Choose the materials you will use to prepare for the exam. Finding out your knowledge gaps early in the process frees up time for the actual study and review. Commit yourself to exam prep in a specific time frame and make it fit into your life and your schedule.
Study groups
As you begin your journey of preparing for the AOBFP exam, it’s worth considering the significant benefits of creating a workplace or community study group. Group study sessions offer numerous opportunities for mutual growth and support. By participating in these groups, you not only get a chance to assess your strengths but also to tap into the expertise of your peers who may have a deeper understanding of specific topics. Ultimately, study groups create a supportive and enriching environment as you strive to achieve your AOBFP certification goals.
AOBFP resources
While on your path to obtaining and maintaining AOBFP certification, we are committed to providing numerous resources to help you get certified and stay certified. We have compiled several references to help you prepare for the 2024 Longitudinal Assessment. Candidates are encouraged to review these items before taking the assessment. The required longitudinal assessment segments include 10 multiple-choice questions, and the exam is not timed so you can complete them at your own pace – during the specific quarter. Any questions that are not answered or that are incorrect will be presented during the final remediation segment. Candidates are strongly encouraged to participate in each segment quarter and not wait until the remediation segment to take the assessment. Those who do not participate until the remediation will have 30 questions to answer and only have one opportunity to be successful.
Monitor EDU exam prep
Review MonitorEDU exam preparation materials to learn what to expect on exam day. Confirm your scheduled exam date and time. Identify a place to take your exam; you will need a private room with a door and will need to have your computer and mobile device plugged in. Confirm that you have downloaded and installed the MonitorEDU Secure Browser and completed the pre-test technical check and setup. Install Google Chrome, disable any popup blockers, and complete any needed system updates on your computer. Have your valid government-issued ID and your AOA ID number available for your exam. Watch the video to learn more.
AOA practice exam
To assist candidates in preparing for their remotely proctored EEIC or Initial exam, the AOA offers a 10-question, multiple-choice practice exam. The practice exam offers candidates the opportunity to experience questions in a format similar to those that will appear on the actual exam.
We are committed to your success!
If you are a family physician preparing for the AOBFP exam, longitudinal assessment, or maintaining your Osteopathic Continuous Certification requirements, this is an important phase of your career. The AOBFP stands by you, ready to provide unwavering support to you. Whether you are in the early stages of your career or a seasoned family physician, we are here to help you earn and maintain your board certification in family medicine.
Apply today – view current open exam applications
Interested in becoming a Subject Matter Expert?
Questions about becoming certified or managing OCC?
Contact us at aobfp@osteopathic.org.