How to prepare for the ABMM examination - American Board of Medical Management

Physician Executive, July-August, 1990 by Ted Hamilton

Two other good books, not listed in the bibliography, are:

Bioethics Today: A New Ethical Vision, adited by J. Walters, published by Loma Linda University Press, 1988. This concise, readable text discusses briefly the historical development of health care ethics, and deals in a readily understandable manner with current major ethical dilemmas in health care.

Essentials of Health Care Finance, Second Edition, by William O. Cleverly, PhD, published by Aspen Publishers, Inc., 1986. This is a good, basic primer on health care finance. It is well-illustrated, highly informative, and as readable as a book of this nature can be.

The exam in 1989 consisted of approximately 150 multiple choice questions and four to six essay questions. There was a time limit of five hours for completing the exam. I found my time about equally divided between the two parts. It is important to keep moving, not becoming bogged down in the multiple choice section, thus leaving inadequate time for the essay portion. Be mentally prepared for the transition--don't allow yourself to be intimidated by the essay questions. Start writing, even if the answer is not entirely clear, and you will find that your thoughts will begin to flow.

What would I do differently to more effectively prepare for the exam? Specifically, I would learn more about data management systems and mini-and microcomputers and their capabilities and limitations. I would spend considerably less time familiarizing myself with "Robert's Rules of Order" and more time reviewing quantitative and statistical methods. I would become knowledgeable regarding the elements of interinstitutional contracts and be less concerned about relatively sophisticated aspects of health care accounting.

Was the experience worth it? Would I do it again? Yes and yes. The preparation was an invigorating learning experience, and the test was an engaging challenge. The entire process provides an opportunity to measure oneself, to acquire new knowledge and skills, and to achieve the recognition of one's peers within the profession. I recommend it to you as an experience well worth the undertaking.

Ted Hamilton, MD, MBA, FACPE, is Medical Director, College Square Urgent Care Center, Oakwood, Ga.