A non-profit organization, the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) develops and administers assessments for student physicians and medical licensing authorities. Founded in 1915, the NBME partners with the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) to create the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), which evaluates medical students and residents for licensure. The NBME also provides assessments and educational materials for medical students, educators, practicing physicians, and state testing of licensed physicians. Its mission is to protect public health through advanced assessment of healthcare professionals.
Role in Medical Licensure
The NBME collaborates with the FSMB to develop the USMLE, a critical component in the medical licensure process. USMLE examinations are used by medical licensing authorities to assess the qualifications of physicians seeking licenses.
Additional Assessments and Resources
Beyond the USMLE, the NBME creates a variety of assessments and educational materials. These resources support medical education and continuous professional development for physicians.
Mission and Impact
The NBME's mission is to protect public health through state-of-the-art assessment of healthcare professionals. Its work ensures that physicians meet high standards of competency and readiness to practice medicine.