Host: Welcome to the deep dive. Today, we're going to be exploring how to become a certified medical examiner.
Guest: A lot of medical professionals are considering this as like a career path.
Host: And we actually have some really great sources here that outline the entire process, and we found one training program that really stands out. It's called the NRCME Training Institute. If you are a medical professional and you are thinking about becoming a certified medical examiner, this is the deep dive for you.
Guest: We should start with the basics.
Host: Yeah. What are the basics? Like, who can even become a certified medical examiner?
Guest: Right, so not just anyone can jump into this role. There are some eligibility requirements.
Host: Okay.
Host: So, basically, you need to be licensed, certified, or registered to perform physical exams in your state. So, we're talking MDs, DOs, PAs, NPs, even DCs can qualify.
Host: So, a lot of our listeners probably meet that requirement. What's next?
Guest: Well, training, of course. That's where this NRCME Training Institute comes in.
Host: They seem to be the top contender out there.
Guest: Yeah, they've trained over 21,000 providers since 2013.
Host: Wow!
Guest: That's a lot of people. And they're known for having a really comprehensive but efficient program. Most providers finish it in about 10 to 12 hours.
Host: That's not bad, especially for busy medical professionals.
Guest: Right.
Host: And I was reading that they give you your training certificate the same day that you pass their 50-question test.
Guest: I like that they just streamline the process.
Host: Yeah.
Guest: And it seems to be working because they boast a 99% pass rate for the national certification exam.
Host: That's very impressive. What is it about their program that's so effective?
Guest: Right, is it the curriculum itself or the teaching method? Well, it's probably a combination of factors. They offer a question bank with 300 practice questions, they have a guide specifically for passing the national exam.
Host: Okay.
Guest: And they even have a summary of the Medical Examiner Handbook.
Host: Oh, which I know was recently finalized after a decade in draft form.
Guest: Exactly. Can you imagine working with a draft handbook for 10 years? That would be crazy.
Host: Yeah, that’s a long time. But what happens if someone completes the training and they don't pass the national exam?
Guest: That’s a good question.
Host: On the first try, what happens?
Guest: Well, they actually offer a pass guarantee. If you don’t pass, they’ll cover your $80 exam fee for a retake.
Host: So, they’re confident.
Guest: Very confident
Host: That you’ll pass.
Guest: Yeah. They’re invested in your success.
Host: That’s a really good point.
Guest: And it’s worth noting that they also offer a discount.
Host: You can get $100 off their program with the code 100NRCME. That’s a pretty significant saving.
Guest: Right.
Host: So, they’re efficient, comprehensive.
Guest: Yes.
Host: They're affordable.
Guest: Yes.
Host: Okay. So, let’s move beyond the training itself and talk about the actual FMCSA Medical Examiner Certification Test.
Guest: Okay.
Host: So, what can medical professionals expect when they sit for that exam?
Guest: It’s basically the culmination of all your preparation.
Host: Right.
Guest: It’s designed to really assess your knowledge of the FMCSA’s regulations.
Host: Okay. So, where do people take the exam?
Guest: Well, there are testing locations all over the country, and they’re typically open 6 days a week.
Host: Okay.
Guest: So, you should be able to find a spot that’s convenient for you.
Host: So, you have options.
Guest: You do. You can choose between two providers, Prometric and PSI.
Host: So, there's some flexibility there.
Host: Passing this exam is just the beginning.
Guest: You need refresher training every 5 years, and you have to retake the certification exam every 10 years. And on top of that, you’ll also be submitting the results of your CMV driver physicals to the FMCSA on a regular basis.
Host: So, if you're up for the challenge...
Guest: Yeah.
Host: And you're looking for a rewarding career where you can make a real difference, becoming a certified medical examiner might be the perfect fit for you. Until next time, keep on learning, keep on exploring, and stay curious.
Host: And stay safe out there on the roads.
Guest: Absolutely.
