Ruth-Marie Fincher, M.D. (CDIM) has written to alert us to an important session on revision of USMLE licensing sequence at the AAMC on Sunday afternoon, November 4, 2007 (3:30-5:00 PM). The USMLE is discussing a combined Step 1 and Step 2 as a single exam, and perhaps moving Step 3 to later in GME.

These have important implications for clerkships, and Dr. Fincher’s invitation is a great chance to have input. Members of ACE organizations should submit provide any comments or questions to their respective ACE representative by September 13, 2007.

Here’s note on the Sunday session from Dr. Fincher:

"The Comprehensive Review of USMLE will be the topic of a Focus Session at the AAMC meeting on Sunday, 11/4/07, The purpose of the session is to answer questions and address concerns about the five major themes that have emerged during the process (Progress to Date section of document). Please review the document and submit questions or concerns that could be used to help frame the topics and questions for the panel to address. Ruth Hoppe will moderate the panel and I [Rhee] will represent the academic affairs perspective. Al Tallia will represent the USMLE perspective, Kim LeBlanc will represent the licensure perspective, Molly Osborne will represent the student affairs perspective."

Click here to read the summary Dr. Fincher sent, and the website for more comprehensive information at the following link:  http://www.usmle.org/General_Information/review.html.

Thank you for your attention to this issue.

Louis Pangaro, M.D.
President
Alliance for Clinical Education