UCNS Moves to Virtual Proctoring for Initial Certification Exams

6-20-2019 In response to ongoing feedback from certification examinees, the United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties (UCNS) will provide a more flexible and user-friendly experience for physicians by implementing virtual live proctoring for initial certification examinations. Previously, all certification examinations took place at Pearson Vue testing centers.

“We heard the frustrations of physicians who were unable to schedule at testing centers when and where it was most convenient for them,” said Paul G. Fisher, MD, chair of the UCNS Board of Directors. “Virtual proctoring will provide physicians with the flexibility and convenience they desire.”

Changing to virtual proctoring, examinations can now be scheduled 24/7 during the examination week for the day, time, and location that is convenient for the examinee. This change reduces the amount of out-of-office time and expense required for examinees to travel to a testing center. Examinations may be taken on a personal computer or laptop that has camera capabilities and internet access. Examinees will have an opportunity to test their equipment and internet connection in advance of their examination date and will receive online session registration and instructions in advance of their examination.

Security of the examinations remains a priority and is accomplished through virtual candidate identification confirmation. Examinees will provide virtual proctors with a room and desktop scan to assure that no materials, phones, or other devices are available to the candidate during the duration of the examination. Through the candidate login, the computer’s browser is locked down for the duration of the examination and all candidates agree to an online statement of ethical conduct. The proctor-to-candidate ratio is no more than one proctor to four candidates, and all proctors are trained to handle basic online issues as needed during examinations with advanced support available during published days and times.

“It is our goal to use the technology that is now readily available to improve the UCNS certification examination experience for physicians while maintaining the security and integrity of our examinations,” added Fisher.