ATP CEO, Dr. William G. Harris, announced the launch of a new global special interest group that will focus on exam issues in health care. 

"For now, the new SIG is called Exams in Health Care.  This name is a placeholder as it will be one of the first tasks of the new SIG leadership to identify a name that holds universal appeal," Harris announced.

Leading the new SIG will be Ian Frank, CEO of the Australian Medical Council, who will serve as SIG Chair, and David Waldschmidt, Ph.D., Test Director for the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE), who will serve as SIG Vice Chair.  Harris noted that Ian Frank has had an abiding interest for several years in forming up a health care initiative within ATP, and David Waldschmidt has been a long-time supporter and leader at the ATP Divisional level.  "I can't think of two individuals better qualified to lead the formation of this new group," Harris commented.

In talking about the impetus behind the new SIG, Harris reported that a last minute invitation to health-care attendees at the Innovations Conference in Palm Springs brought together an impromptu breakfast that was standing room only.  "Clearly, there is a need that ATP is filling for this particular community at its annual conference, which warrants attention " Harris noted.  He said the new SIG will be charged with creating additional forums, networking opportunities and informational exchanges for this group.

Harris reported that email addresses were collected the breakfast from those who were interested in the SIG, but anyone with an interest can send their email address to Lauren Scheib to be kept up-to-date on progress.