Amir Khiabani, Class of 2022, has been appointed to the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiner’s (NBOME) Special Commission on Osteopathic Medical Licensure Assessment. NBOME is recognized both nationally and internationally for its excellence in the areas of osteopathic physician testing and evaluation. This non-for-profit organization works to create numerous assessments that are distinct to osteopathy. In addition, NBOME strives to partner with other organizations on various assessment programs in order to protect the public by providing the ability to assess the competencies for osteopathic medicine and other related health care professions.

The NBOME reached out to National Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) to submit three nominations for a representative to be on this special commission. Khiabani was eligible to be nominated for a seat on this commission due to his senior leadership position as National SOMA Treasurer.

This Special Commission works to review the COMLEX-USA examination program, evaluate defensible alternative pathways for verification or assessment of fundamental clinical skills and other competencies, and assure the COMLEX-USA licensure examination pathway continues to evolve with the rapidly changing practice of osteopathic medicine, osteopathic medical education, and health care. In addition, Khiabani will provide representation of perspectives that reflect that of National SOMA as well as his constituents, osteopathic medical students.

Through his appointment, Khiabani will have the opportunity to help ensure that the perspectives of the osteopathic student body are continuously represented during discussions that can result in impacting their future. He hopes that appointment will equip him with the experience and resources to be an osteopathic physician that will confidently advocate for the profession.

“I believe that the role of a physician includes a tremendous amount of leadership, communication, advocacy and peer interaction,” Khiabani said. “Not only working within SOMA, but now having the ability to advocate for my fellow students directly to the NBOME aids me in fulfilling my mission to become a strong and effective leader and physician.”