The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) held its annual new member certifying exam virtually for the second year in a row.

The exam supports the board’s core function of upholding high standards of patient safety in cosmetic surgery; as such, the board considers it a milestone to be able to now offer a secure online examination that has proved to be just as rigorous as the exams held in-person.

“We found the process of virtual testing to be so seamless last year, we knew that administering the exam in the virtual space was a clearly superior plan for this year, as well,” stated Wilbur Hah, MD, ABCS President.

To meet the challenge of crafting this highly rigorous exam that produces a valid, clear evaluation of a surgeon’s fitness for board certification, the ABCS worked with the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME), a leading expert in medical testing methods. The certifying exam for cosmetic surgeons consists of both a written and oral portion; the oral exam was given through secure video channels with board certified cosmetic surgeons who hold specific experience and expertise serving as examiners.

“We are grateful to our diplomate surgeons for their help in administering the oral portion of the exam, and to the NBOME for their fantastic work. Together, we have all worked to ensure the standards remain high, just as in years past,” Hah adds.

[Source(s): American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, PR Newswire]