An interesting article was published yesterday in the NEJM regarding the relative value of USMLE Step 2-CS, addressing the high cost of the test relative to the merits of the test as a necessary step in the certification process of new physicians. The principle of this argument hinges upon one's interpretation of value as:
Value = (Quality) ÷ (Cost)
In this argument, value is the benefit to society receiving a competent physician; quality stands for the minimum passing standard for Step 2-CS as set by the USMLE; and cost is the monetary investment on part of the test-taker (not social cost). Importantly, the authors do make light of the quality component of this equation, noting that Step 2-CS is a qualitative test, whereas Step 1 and Step 2-CK are quantitative tests. The authors use this to argue against the value of the test (thus suggesting a reduction in quality).
For the full article CLICK HERE.
Value = (Quality) ÷ (Cost)
In this argument, value is the benefit to society receiving a competent physician; quality stands for the minimum passing standard for Step 2-CS as set by the USMLE; and cost is the monetary investment on part of the test-taker (not social cost). Importantly, the authors do make light of the quality component of this equation, noting that Step 2-CS is a qualitative test, whereas Step 1 and Step 2-CK are quantitative tests. The authors use this to argue against the value of the test (thus suggesting a reduction in quality).
For the full article CLICK HERE.