Computers in Physician Licensure and Certification: New Methods of Assessment

Abstract

The newer methods of assessment that could become part of a licensure or certification program for physicians in the next decade include standardized patients which assess clinical skills and four computer-based methods that provide an assessment of cognitive ability: simple computerized tests, computer simulations, adapting item presentation, and continuous testing. The prognosis for standardized patients is mixed, with implementation more likely to occur outside of the U.S. Over the next five years, simple computerized tests will be implemented and significant strides will be made in computer simulations and adapting item presentations. These two methods should be implemented toward the end of the decade. The prognosis for the use of continuous testing is poor because so much fundamental work is needed.