Leadership | 06.07.24
New 2-Part NAMSS Certification Exam Format
By Kevin Fogle, CPCS, CPMSM
Beginning with the fall 2024 testing period, NAMSS and Meazure Learning, NAMSS’ testing vendor, are transitioning to a two-part exam process for both the CPCS® and CPMSM® certification exams. In the past, a candidate would sit for each exam in one lengthy and potentially exhausting session. This new format will now allow candidates to take an optional 15-minute break at the mid-point of the exam while maintaining compliance with the strict NCCA standards.
The content of the exams remains the same, with the CPCS consisting of 150 multiple-choice items, and the CPMSM including 175 multiple-choice items. Both exams are divided into two parts including a scheduled 15-minute break between parts one and two. Candidates will review, answer, and submit all questions in part one of the exam\ before being offered a 15-minute break. Upon return from the break, the candidate will then continue with the exam, reviewing, answering, and submitting the remaining questions during part two.
Candidates will have a total of three hours to complete both parts of the CPCS exam, and a total of four hours to complete the CPMSM exam. While a candidate may use any portion of the total testing time for part one of the exam, it is critical to allocate adequate time to complete part two within the total allowed testing time.
While the new two-part exam is being implemented for all candidates with the fall 2024 testing period, the 15-minute break at the mid-point of the exam is optional. If a candidate chooses to forgo the break, they may simply click “continue” to move on to part two of the exam. Testers should be aware, there will not be another opportunity to use the 15-minute break once the continue button has been clicked and part two of the exam has begun.
For candidates choosing to take advantage of the 15-minute break, candidates are encouraged to use the restroom, stretch, or have a quick snack. Candidates will not be permitted to exit the testing center, access their phone, or review study materials during the break. Use of electronic devices during the break will result in a report being filed by the proctor which will be submitted for CCN to review.
Kevin Fogle, CPCS, CPMSM
Kevin Fogle, CPCS, CPMSM, is manager of medical staff services for AdventHealth Lake Wales. Kevin has been a longtime CCN volunteer subject matter expert and a CCN member since 2024.