467 NBCE Cuts Expenses, Develops Practice Test, and Announces Exam-Fee Increase
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Dynamic Chiropractic – September 24, 2001, Vol. 19, Issue 20

NBCE Cuts Expenses, Develops Practice Test, and Announces Exam-Fee Increase

By Editorial Staff
In a July 9 letter to chiropractic students, Peter Ferguson,DC, president of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE), detailed the changes the organization is making.

First, Dr.

Ferguson reiterated the internal cost-saving measures the NBCE Board implemented after its annual meeting in April (see "National Board Tightens its Belt" in our May 21, 2001 issue or at www.chiroweb.com/archives/19/11/13.html):

  • "decreased the directors' honorarium by 20 percent;

     

  • dramatically cut travel;

     

  • reduced the number of meeting days for Executive Committee and full Board meetings;

     

  • postponed expanding NBCE headquarters facilities;

     

  • closed a part IV practical test site for November 2001; and

     

  • significantly reduced the budget of the professional relations and communications department."

These budget changes were made, according to the NBCE Board, because of "declining enrollments in chiropractic colleges across the nation and the rising costs of administering exams."

In his letter to the students, however, Dr. Ferguson noted: "Despite these cost- saving measures, at its June meeting, the executive committee felt it necessary to consider raising exam fees."

Dr. Ferguson noted that the NBCE "has not increased fees since 1992 and, of course, this is not a decision that was considered lightly." There will be an increase in fees in 2002, but exactly when that will kick in and the amount of the increase has not been established. "I want to assure you that we will pay special attention to students' concerns," Dr. Ferguson's letter assured.

Dr. Ferguson reminded students that the NBCE is continuing its fee-waiver program, which began in 1997. Under this program, each chiropractic college names one student recipient for each of the part I, II, III, and IV exam fee-waivers. "In 2000, fee waivers were offered to more than 100 chiropractic candidates at 18 chiropractic colleges," said Dr. Ferguson.

Dr. Ferguson added: "Additionally, we are currently working on a sample exam to be added to our web site. For a nominal fee, you will be able to assess your preparedness for the exams in each of the subject areas of the part I, II, III and physiotherapy exams. We hope to have these sample exams posted by the end of August.

"As you can see, there is a lot of change taking place at the National B oard, and I am committed to keeping you up-to-date as we address the challenges that lie ahead. As well, I want to assure you that the national board is exploring every avenue to make the exam-taking process a beneficial tool that validates your education and proves to the public that you are indeed ready to practice chiropractic health care."

Dynamic Chiropractic editorial staff members research, investigate and write articles for the publication on an ongoing basis. To contact the Editorial Department or submit an article of your own for consideration, email .

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