The Examination
The subject content of the certifying examination will reflect the knowledge, skills, and attitudes deemed essential for the competent practice of lipidology. The content will follow along with the outline of topics and objectives that have been covered in the National Lipid Association Self-Assessment program, Volumes I-III. It will focus on the biochemistry and metabolism of lipids, the genetics, diagnosis and management dyslipidemias and the metabolic syndrome, as well as the fundamentals of vascular biology.
The examination will be constructed at the upper level of difficulty and will consist of 175-200 multiple-choice questions including:
- A-type (one best choice)
- Comparative B-type (matching one best choice)
- X-type (multiple true/false)
The exam will be a proctored event and specific criteria have to be met in order to sit for the exam [See Eligibility Criteria].
The ABCL is considering the development of a certification process for allied health professionals. The examination is only open to physicians at this time.
The Board is analyzing the feasibility of offering a certification pathway for allied health professionals who specialize in clinical lipidology. An allied health examination is under discussion for late 2006 or 2007.