I have received several questions about using the recordings for recertification. I have not yet taken the recertification exam myself, but I have read some forum posts here and there and spoken with colleagues about the examination. As for using these recordings, I know you will find them useful– especially the ones I’ll describe in a moment. The main value for the recordings is that they are designed for use while driving, during time that would otherwise be wasted. They are also considerably less expensive than other courses out there, and stack up favorably– particularly if you can pass on the Osler black plastic binder. I saved you about $600 bucks right there!
The ‘diagnostic criteria’ recordings consist of major psychiatric diagnoses, followed by recitation of the criteria for each. When the recertification exam asks questions like ‘which of the following are criteria for x disorder’, or gives a case and asks you to determine the diagnosis, these recordings will prove useful. The ‘QA’ recordings for child, psych, and neuro consist of PRITE-style questions, followed by a list of answers and then the correct answer. They would be similar to studying old PRITE tests, except that the studying can be done by audio, without the need for books or reading.
The psychopharm series may be more or less helpful depending on your confidence with medications. The information covers the basics about the different medications used in psychiatry, with details such as the risks to pregnancy of lithium or divalproex, or the side effects of various antidepressants.
The recordings are all very ‘efficient,’ with a minimum of extra jargon. Comments are welcome; Good luck on your exams!
