Recalled Items and the American Board of Pathology Certification Examinations: What Constitutes Cheating?

Abstract

Discussion: The American Board of Pathology (ABP) withheld certification from 3 candidates in 2012 because they either were in possession of ‘‘board remembrances material’’ at the time of the examination or were providing such remembrances on Internet sites. As a result, the ABP is working with pathology departments and chairs around the country to publicize honor codes and policies related to cheating. The mission of the ABP, a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties, ‘‘is to promote the health of the public and advance the practice and science of pathology by establishing voluntary certification standards and assessing the qualifications of those seeking to practice the specialty of pathology.’’ 1 This mission statement, which is found on the ABP Web site, is a reminder that public interests and expectations of professionalism must be considered in terms of honor code enforcement.