Based on critical incidents that require you to assess a situation and prescribe a course of action
Tests in-depth knowledge, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and the ability to communicate in writing
1 hour and 30 minutes in length
Passing score: Composite score
of “B” or better
Purpose of the Essay Exam
The essay exam tests:
In-depth knowledge of medical practice management principles and issues;
Problem-solving and decision-making skills;
The ability to communicate in writing.
Essay questions are based on critical incidents that require you to assess a situation and prescribe a course of action.
Questions are open-ended, allowing for multiple approaches to solving a problem. Therefore, there may be many correct answers.
Essay grading:
Essay grading is accomplished by teams of three ACMPE Fellows each.
Your responses are sent to the graders anonymously (identified by number only).
Each team grades one question, giving a total of nine individuals involved in grading your essay exam.
All nine grades are averaged together to arrive at a final score.
Passing grade = B (B– is not a passing grade).
You will receive your exam results approximately eight weeks after taking the exam
Essay feedback:
If you do not pass the essay exam, you can request written feedback which will summarize each question and the corresponding graders’ comments.
Essay Exam Tips
Read each question very carefully and make sure you understand what it is asking you to do. Don’t miss important information. Underlining or highlighting key parts helps.
Make sure you understand what the question is asking you.
If the question contains multiple parts (notice the “and” in the last question), make sure to answer all component parts. One of the most common reasons for not doing well is not answering all the questions asked.
If appropriate, specify any assumptions upon which you are going to base your answer. This may not be necessary, but could help in some situations. For examples, have participants discuss possible assumptions. “Frame” your answer.
Develop a quick outline prior to writing your final response, demonstrating a depth of knowledge along with good problem-solving and decision-making skills. Do not include your outline in your completed essay.
The response must be written in formal essay style with complete sentences and paragraphs. Spelling, grammar and punctuation does influence the flow of your response. Do not use abbreviations except on subsequent uses. Avoid using personal statements [“in our practice, we always…”].
For those taking the written exam [as opposed to the computerized exam] write clearly. Use black ink. Do not write in the margins. Comments outside of the margin will not photo copy.
Sample Template
Paragraph I
Demonstrate you knowledge of what the question actually is.
Set the parameters/Assumptions and frame your answer.
Highlight what key elements you’re going to provide in you answer.
C. To provide understanding of change to staff, physicians and stakeholders.
D. To maintain alignment among staff, physicians and stakeholders.
Sample multiple choice exam questions
What level of Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certificate is needed to perform tests that pose little risk of harm if they are done incorrectly?
A. Provider Performed Microscopy.
B. Accreditation.
C. Waiver.
D. Registration.
Sample multiple choice exam questions
Which data set would NOT be needed to prepare a revenue budget?
A. Conversion factor.
B. Payer mix.
C. Provider productivity.
D. Overhead rate.
Sample multiple choice exam questions
Studies have shown that the majority of medical practice errors and business office errors arise from which of the following?
A. Work processes and systems.
B. Negligence of individual employees.
C. Physician burnout.
D. Precertification errors.
Sample multiple choice exam questions
Owner’s of what type of entities do NOT have limited liability for entity-level debt and other obligations?
A. C corporations.
B. Partnerships.
C. S corporations.
D. Limited liability companies
Sample multiple choice exam questions
Which of the following would typically NOT be part of an agreement between participating physicians and a preferred provider organization?
A. Referral policies.
B. Utilization review guidelines.
C. Favored nation reimbursement.
D. Universal enrollment access
Sample essay exam questions
You are the administrator of a medical practice. The practice has lost revenue in the past year due to a reduction of managed care contract rates. The physicians in the group have suggested converting the practice to a cost-based fee schedule as a way to increase revenue.
Discuss how you would evaluate this idea and describe your recommendations to the physicians.
