The AIMVT study guide is general and covers a broad array of information. As is widely known, Internal Medicine encompasses an extensive range of subject material. For that reason, prior to the publication of the study guide, AIMVT conducted a role delineation study in which credentialed technicians working primarily in Internal Medicine were polled on what they do in their everyday jobs. The AIMVT Domains/Tasks, Knowledge, and Skills Lists were all derived from the information that AIMVT received from that study. Furthermore, the disease states outlined in the Knowledge List is a comprehensive compilation of potential topics that may be utilized from AIMVT’s sizable item bank in any given year. The percentages of the domains and tasks have been added into the study guides.
The texts listed are simply suggested study material. They are not meant to be read in their entirety. The list is extensive to increase the chances that at least some of the material is readily available to the interested technician. The recommended reading list should be viewed as a way to augment a technician’s hands on experience and knowledge, not replace it. For this reason, we do not feel it is appropriate to single out certain chapters from any one text for general or specific reading. It would also be strongly suggested to read any articles published by AIMVT members, as this is information that we feel strongly about, and we write the questions!
For international candidates, please keep in mind that you are taking an exam developed for North American candidates, and would therefore be expected to understand information that may be specific to that area. Every effort has been made to decrease this potential. Keep in mind that technicians often learn skills in school that they don’t utilize often, but still may need in an emergent situation.
Only you can know what information you feel comfortable with and what information you need to know more in depth. By utilizing a wide variety of sources, you should be able to have overlap in the information and reinforce currently known information. Go through the domains and examine the percentages given; from there develop a personal study guide to work on the areas that you feel weak in or need to understand better.
Do not wait until you get acceptance of your application to begin studying. As soon as you decide to submit an application, look at each case to understand the “why and wherefore.” Use this information to help develop a personal study guide.
Make use of mentors (current VTS), your doctors, and other candidates to clarify information, improve study habits and practice skills.
You have three years from your acceptance to sit for and pass the examination. For example, if your application is approved in December 2017/January 2018, you may sit for the exam in June 2018, June 2019, and June 2020. If you do not pass, you will need to re-apply.
The Academy recognizes that circumstances may arise that may preclude an accepted applicant from sitting for the exam. See our Consensus Statement on Exam Postponement HERE.
