International Programs

During 2003, the NBME appointed a task force charged with reviewing international opportunities, crafting strategies, and providing future directions for potential growth. After much research, many discussions, and several meetings, the report of the International Collaborations Task Force was presented to and approved by the National Board membership at its 2005 Annual Meeting. The report included a mission statement, goals, strategic principles, and recommendations for achieving those goals. Among the recommendations proposed and approved were:

• A recognizable entity, International Collaborations Program, should be created within the organizational structure to manage and coordinate the program.
• The initial focus should concentrate on a limited number of international regions and strong consideration should be given to Latin America and Europe.
• The NBME should develop the capability of offering examinations in multiple languages and the first priority should be Spanish.
• The NBME should strive to develop appropriate collaborations in the outreach, development, and delivery of international assessment services based on substantially compatible missions and values.
• The International Collaborations Program team should have the support of an advisory committee.
• The initial commitment to this activity would be for five years with a complete re-assessment of the feasibility of the program at the end of the fourth year.

Since the 2005 Annual Meeting, NBME staff has been working toward achieving these goals, establishing an International Programs unit with staff recruited to manage and coordinate these activities.