NBME Obstetrics and Gynecology clerkship final examination scores: predictive value of standardized tests and demographic factors.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the predictive value of standardized tests and demographic factors on performance on the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) examination.

STUDY DESIGN

The study included 171 students who rotated through obstetrics and gynecology from 1992 to 2001. Correlations between NBME OBGYN scores and United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) step 1, MCAT and GPA scores, and temporal and demographic factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), NBME and USMLE step 1 scores were 24.03, 67.47 and 194.53, respectively. Significant correlations with NMBE OBGYN were USMLE step 1 scores (r = .517, p < 0.001), MCAT scores (r = .481, p < 0.001), faculty evaluation grade (r=.223, p <0.01), OBGYN residency interest (r= .179, p < 0.05) and female gender (r=.157, p< 0.05) with a significant negative correlation with clerkship duration (r = -.208, p < 0. 01). On logistic regression analysis, USMLE, MCAT, academic year and faculty evaluation grade were independently predictive of NBME OBGYN scores. All preclinical standardized tests showed positive correlation with progressive academic years and decreasing student age. and decreasing student age.

CONCLUSION

USMLE step 1, MCAT scores and faculty evaluation grades were predictive of NMBE OBGYN scores. They may be helpful in assessing third-year medical students in need of special supervision and assistance.