Bloomington, Minn., September 4, 2012 – Anesthesiologists planning to pursue certification and recertification will continue to undertake computer-based exams at locations most convenient to them, following renewal of the testing partnership between Pearson VUE and the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA).
Formed in 1937, the ABA has a long history of examining and certifying physicians who complete an accredited anesthesiology training program and voluntarily apply to the Board for certification or maintenance of certification.
The agreement with Pearson VUE, which began in 2007, enables anesthesiologists to take a range of six computer-based exams at Pearson Professional Centers (PPCs) across the country. The certification and recertification exams allow physicians to demonstrate their specialist knowledge in disciplines such as Pain Medicine and Critical Care.
The ABA decided to extend its partnership with Pearson VUE based on the company’s service quality and the professionalism of its test center network, which enabled the Board to transition from paper and pencil to computer-based testing (CBT).
Pearson VUE, the CBT business of Pearson, delivers over 100 medical exam programs worldwide.
“Physicians play a vital role in the delivery of quality healthcare,” added Robert Whelan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pearson VUE. “Providing them with a reliable platform in order to pursue certification provides accurate measurement of their knowledge. Additionally, candidates who successfully recertify obtain demonstrable proof that their knowledge is up to date and valid – proving their understanding of the latest developments and practices within their chosen discipline.”
About the ABA
The ABA’s mission is to advance the highest standards of the practice of anesthesiology. The ABA is one of 24 medical specialty Member Boards that make up the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Through the ABMS, the Boards work together to set and sustain common standards of expertise and professionalism that each uses to evaluate candidates for Board certification and specialists to maintain their certification.
Pearson VUE delivers the following exams on behalf of the ABA:
- Primary Certification Part 1
- Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology Program (MOCA)
- Pain Medicine Initial Certification
- Pain Medicine Recertification
- Critical Care Medicine Initial Certification
- Critical Care Medicine Recertification
For more information, visit www.theaba.org.