Credentialing & Privileging | 05.09.22
CPCS® and CPMSM® Exam Assembly
by Natalie Rose, MHS, CPMSM, CPCS, Chair, Certification Commission of NAMSS
The Certification Commission of NAMSS (CCN) has a year-long development cycle that results in new CPCS and CPMSM exams every year to assure quality and relevancy of our certification programs. Recently, we had our spring event – exam assembly. Before exam assembly, last fall, a team of volunteer subject matter experts wrote exam questions. Each question (and the response options) is individually reviewed by at least three CCN members and volunteer subject matter experts. Scantron (our testing partner), assists by ensuring there are enough questions for each domain and varying levels of difficulty. Find out more about the domains here. On a Saturday in April, 20 volunteer subject matter experts and 10 CCN members gathered virtually to review and validate the content for the draft exams – reviewing each question and the possible responses one more time and assessing the exam overall in alignment with our standards and best practices. At the end of exam assembly, the exam content is final!
CCN and the exam development process is accredited by NCCA, the accrediting organization for professional certifications. The exams are reliable, and the development work is made possible with subject matter experts. CCN SMEs are experts in the field – they’re dual certified and come from a range of organizations (acute care hospitals, CVOs, heath plans, etc.) and from across the country. Just as importantly, they actively engage in test development activities – which is tough when they’re virtual. Spending time with others who are as knowledgeable and as excited to talk about the medical staff profession is uniquely satisfying, and the volunteers say it’s a fun way to spend a Saturday. Aside from the personal satisfaction, SMEs earn CE credits for their work. Diving into the standards related to exam questions and each possible response keeps expertise current!
If you’re interested in volunteering for CCN, and are dual-certified, we’d love to hear from you.
Are you considering certification for yourself or a team member? Check out the handbook for eligibility information, exam content, and how to register for the exam.