ABOHNS Announces Changes to Oral Certifying Exam

Over the past several years, the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS) has seriously considered the value of including practice-based content in the Oral Certifying Exam (OCE) for initial board certification. Several peer surgical boards have a long history of administering practice-based oral exams. Some examples include the American Board of Plastic Surgery, American Board of Neurological Surgery, and American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

As a result of our research and conclusions, the Board has made the decision to incorporate cases from a candidate’s practice into the content of their exam, beginning with the next OCE administration – which will likely be in 2025. This will be in effect for all future candidates for Board certification from ABOHNS.

We anticipate additional details about the new, practice-based OCE format will be made available soon after the 2023 WQE results are released. At this time, we can share that the length of time for Board eligibility will be extended to accommodate these upcoming changes.

Please be assured that the ABOHNS Directors and staff are committed to providing candidates with the best possible experience as we develop a well-organized transition to our new exam format. The Board feels strongly that this change is important to the mission of ABOHNS and the future of our specialty. We respectfully thank you in advance for your flexibility and patience.