BLOOMINGTON, MN, 14 AUGUST 2012 – Ophthalmic Medical Technicians (OMT) are set to benefit from the computer-based exam delivery agreement between the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO®) and Pearson VUE – providing access to multiple-choice and simulated exams.
JCAHPO’s move from its previous computer-based testing (CBT) provider gives greater access to candidates who pursue certification world-wide by demonstrating their knowledge and skills relating to ophthalmic processes and procedures.
From entry to advanced level, the multiple-choice exams will be available at Pearson Professional Centers and Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center Selects in the U.S. and Canada from August 2012. The first simulated exam – the Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT®) exam – will launch the following month. The new Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT®) exam will go live for the first time in a Test Center in early 2013. Both exams feature external Flash items, allowing professionals to simulate use of the equipment required to evaluate a patient’s eyesight. These performance examinations eliminate the need and cost of using physical ophthalmology equipment in a clinical observation examination.
With strong interest from the international ophthalmic community in its exams and allied health training, JCAHPO plans to expand its capabilities to deliver certification exams globally.
Tyree Carr, MD, JCAHPO President, said:
“We transitioned to Pearson VUE, primarily, because of its technology, such as its ability to handle advanced items types and simulations. We believe its service, industry status and history of helping programs to expand internationally will enable us to provide candidates with the very best test experience.”
Pearson VUE, the CBT business of Pearson, delivers over 100 medical exam programs worldwide.
Robert Whelan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pearson VUE, added:
“Delivering exams to medical specialists not only helps to progress careers and safeguard citizens’ health. Certification gives patients the assurance that the professionals they are entrusting have the specific knowledge and skills to offer advice and administer treatment.”
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Media contact:
Jack Gibson, +44 (0)207 010 2139, jack.gibson@pearson.com
About JCAHPO
The mission of JCAHPO (www.jcahpo.org) is to enhance the quality and availability of ophthalmic patient care by promoting the value of qualified allied health personnel and by providing certification and education. Since it was established in 1969, JCAHPO has enabled tens of thousands of professionals to obtain professional certification.