ABPN Child Neurology Certification Exam

The ABPN (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology) Child Neurology Certification exam is designed for physicians who have completed a child neurology residency training program and wish to become board-certified in child neurology. To take this exam, you must have completed an accredited child neurology residency program and hold a valid unrestricted medical license in the U.S. or Canada.

The written exam is a one-day, computer-based test with approximately 400 multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of child neurology, including basic neuroscience, clinical child neurology, and patient management. This portion of the exam is typically offered once a year in September, while the oral exam is held once a year, usually in April or October.

Passing the ABPN Child Neurology Certification exam demonstrates a physician's expertise in child neurology and commitment to providing high-quality patient care, which can be important for career advancement, hospital privileges, and insurance reimbursement.

Once certified, child neurologists must maintain their certification through the ABPN's Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program, which involves ongoing learning, self-assessment, and periodic re-examination.

Topics covered in the exam include:

• Basic neuroscience relevant to child neurology
• Neurological examination & diagnostic skills in children
• Neuroimaging and other diagnostic tests in pediatric patients
• Pediatric neurological disorders
• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Patient Management
• Ethical & Legal Considerations

As with the general Neurology Specialty Certification exam, it's essential to review the ABPN's official website for the most up-to-date information on exam dates, eligibility requirements, and application processes, as these may change over time.

Who is eligible to take the Child Neurology Certification Exam?
To be eligible, candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program in neurology with special qualification in child neurology. They must also hold an active, unrestricted medical license in the United States or Canada.

How often is the exam offered?
The exam is typically offered once a year, usually in the fall.

How is the exam scored?
The ABPN uses a criterion-referenced passing score, meaning that candidates are not graded on a curve. The passing score represents the minimum level of knowledge and skills required for certification.

Can I retake the exam if I don't pass on the first attempt?
Yes, candidates who do not pass the exam on their first attempt can retake it. However, they must wait at least one year before retaking the exam and may have a limited number of attempts.

How can I prepare for the exam?
The ABPN recommends reviewing the content outline, studying relevant materials (e.g., textbooks, journal articles, practice guidelines), and practicing with sample questions. Study groups, review courses, and online resources may also be helpful. (Prep with the Dude!)

What happens after I pass the exam?
Once you pass the exam, you will be certified in Child Neurology by the ABPN. To maintain your certification, you must participate in the ABPN's Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program.

How long is the Child Neurology certification valid?
The certification is valid for 10 years, after which you must recertify by meeting the ABPN's MOC requirements.