The USMLE Step 2 CK exam recently began its migration to new test delivery software, which incidentally was designed to include a calculator function. The NBME has identified problems with this function and advises not to use it until further updates are posted.

The new software will be deployed at sites across the country throughout August and September, beginning August 14th. The Step 1 and 3 software transition will not occur until 2009.

The new orientation and practice materials are available here:
http://www.usmle.org/Orientation/2008/menu.html

It is strongly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the instructions and software in advance of the test date in order to save your energy for what matters most!

Also note that as a result of the software transition, scoring delays are expected. The score reporting target date for August-September Step 2 CK test-takers is October 8, 2008.

Finally, USMLE has decided to allow soft-foam earplugs during all exams (Step 1, 2CK and 3), so long as they are out of the package upon arrival (subject to inspection) and are left at the workstation during breaks. Great news!

The newest test bank from the Authors of First Aid is now available!  With 2,000 USMLE-style questions the USMLERx Step 2 CK Qmax is has everything you need for success.  Designed with the NBME FRED interface

Special introductory prices for the newest test bank from the Authors of First Aid!

• 1 month for $48
• 2 months for $78
• 3 months for $98
• 6 months for $148
• 9 months for $198

Extensions to your existing subscription are also available if you need more time.

• 15 days ($28)
• 1 month ($38)
• 3 months ($78)

Why choose USMLERx Step 2 CK Qmax?

Step 2 CK Qmax has everything you need to ensure success on the USMLE Step 2 CK exam:

• 2,000+ top-rated USMLE-style questions with detailed explanations
• NBME FRED-style interface for true simulation
• Customizable by test mode, subject matter, and question reuse
• Create half or full day simulations
• Detailed performance feedback
• Accessible 24/7 anywhere
• Pass the Step 2 CK with USMLERx or get double your subscription free! See Terms and Conditions for  details.

USMLERx has already been battle-tested by thousands of users. Here’s what people are saying:

• “I used USMLERx and thought it was incredible… I scored 99 on the exam, which I largely attribute to the First Aid book and USMLERx. Keep up the good work!!”
• “Wow… USMLERx is badass… USMLERx was challenging and required secondary and tertiary analysis (2-step or 3-step thinking)… this is more representative of what the real test is like.”
• “I own Kaplan Qbank as well and completed most of it… but I heard so many good things about USMLERx that I just bought this and I love it! The explanations you provide are awesome compared to Kaplan Qbank.”

We are currently looking for talented students with an interest in medical education to be involved in First Aid and USMLERx projects.

This is a great opportunity to learn about the authoring and publication process - great experience if you ever want to publish a book of your own someday. You can even receive publication credit and a small stipend too! The time commitment is minimal to moderate and fairly flexible around your schedule.

Ideal applicants are those who are enthusiastic about teaching others and who have a keen eye for detail and the written word, a good working knowledge of Word and Adobe Acrobat, and you must have Internet access.

If you think you might be a good fit, we invite you to find out more. To let us know about your interest please email us at firstaidteam@yahoo.com and be sure to include the following: A current CV, your school, what year you are currently in, date of your USMLE Step 1 exam, date of your Step 2 (if applicable), and the reason for your interest.

We look forward to hearing from you.

The First Aid/USMLERx Team