Received: November 21, 2008; Accepted: November 25, 2008.
ABSTRACT
In addition to the traditional MCQ test, National Medical Licensing Examination Board (NMLEB) will introduce clinical skills assessment as an independent exam for MD qualification in 2009. The clinical skills test will evaluate six procedural skills and six clinical problems by using OSCE and CPX. The validity and reliability of the test should be established by continuing effort from experts and efficient administration. The test may change the curriculum of clinical education in many medical schools. National Health Personnel Licensing Examination Board (NHPLEB) is required to prepare this exam step by step and maintain the quality of the skills exam. There should be opportunity for medical students to participate in clinical practice during bedside teaching. Collaboration between exam institution and medical schools will be needed for a successful launching of the skills test.