The Israeli Surgical Oral Board Examination: Improved Objectivity Increases Knowledge Authenticity

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Assessment Methods

Background:

• The general surgery oral board examination in Israel was recently updated to enhance objectivity and standardization.
• This study details the current examination model implemented between May 2018 and November 2020.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the revised oral board examination model in general surgery in Israel.
• To evaluate the examination's process, quality, and effectiveness in assessing surgical residents.

Main Methods:

• A 12-station oral examination model was used, with two exams conducted annually.
• Examiners and candidates completed post-examination questionnaires assessing process and quality (scale 1-5).
• Data from six examinations involving 142 residents were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The overall mean pass rate was 76.6%.
• Highest pass rates were observed in acute-care surgery (86.6%), foregut surgery (84.6%), and colorectal surgery (84%).
• Surgical oncology (31.7%) and abdominal-wall surgery (28.8%) had the highest failure rates.
• Examiners rated exam standardization (4.45) and case relevance (4.35) highly.
• Candidates rated examiner conduct favorably (4.08).

Conclusions:

• Despite inherent challenges, properly constructed oral examinations are effective for evaluating surgical trainees' critical thinking and decision-making.
• The revised model demonstrates success in maintaining exam integrity and standardization.
• The exam provides a valuable assessment tool for surgical residents' competency.