We invite you to register for the ASCP Pathology Resident In-Service Examination (RISE), which will be March 22 – April 4, 2008. The examination consists of more than 300 multiple-choice items, many with images, constructed by pathologists who are acknowledged experts in their respective fields. The examination represents collaboration between the ASCP, the Association of Directors of Anatomic and Surgical Pathology (ADASP) and the Academy of Clinical Laboratory Physicians and Scientists (ACLPS).

In 2007 the RISE was utilized by 100% of pathology residency programs in the United States, as well as by international programs. This comprehensive examination covers all areas of anatomic and clinical pathology, including new techniques and laboratory administration. The exam is designed as an evaluation tool that can be used to assess a resident’s progress in the area of Medical Knowledge, one of the competency areas in the ACGME Outcomes Project. The RISE Committee continues to make improvements and changes, and invites any suggestions.

The RISE is offered in a browser-based, online format. Residents will need access to a computer with Internet Explorer v5.01 or higher, Netscape v7.2 or higher, or Firefox 1.7 or higher in order to take the examination online.

The registration fees for this year are:
Residency Program: US $375.00 per program and US $100.00 per resident taking the examination.

The following points characterize the examination:

Flexibility in Administration
1. The examination may be administered on any day(s) during the weeks of March 22 – April 4, 2008.
2. The examination is divided into three sections:

• Anatomic Pathology, two (2) hour and fifteen (15) minutes
  
• Clinical Pathology, two (2) hour and forty-five (45) minutes
  
• Special Topics, one (1) hour
  

These three (3) sections may be administered either at individual settings or at a continuous setting. Completion time for the entire examination is six (6) hours.

Examination Configurations
Because of the diversity of pathology training programs, program directors may require individual residents to participate in any of the following combinations of the exam sections:
• AP, CP, and Special Topics (total test)
• AP and Special Topics only
• CP and Special Topics only
• Special Topics only

Please note:
1. The fees and examination materials are the same, regardless of the number of sections completed.
2. Scores will be based only on the sections attempted.
3. The Special Topics section must be completed in order to receive scores.

Performance Reports
Individual score information is provided to both the Program Director and the resident.
Computer-generated statistical and score reports are provided to Program Directors to assess both individual and group performance in relation to year of training and each content area. Examination results will be issued approximately May 9, 2008 via electronic mail.

Please note that this examination is designed to be used as one tool to discuss with residents their strengths and areas for improvement. It is not intended to provide the sole criterion on which a resident’s performance, promotion, or advancement is based.

Your participation will enhance the meaningfulness and success of the RISE. Our goal is to maintain the relevance of the examination to all pathology residency-training programs yet continually improving and enhancing the examination. Any input you wish to provide about this project will be appreciated.

Inquiries should be directed to:

Jay Wagner, MBA, MT(ASCP)
American Society for Clinical Pathology
33 West Monroe Street, Suite 1600
Chicago, Illinois 60603-5617
312-541-4741
rise@ascp.org