The Pharmacist Self-Assessment Mechanism (PSAM) is an evaluation tool intended to assist pharmacists in obtaining objective, non-punitive feedback on their knowledge base. The PSAM is based on a blueprint that is applicable to general pharmacy practitioners in all practice settings. This blueprint is divided into five major competency areas.

Since the full benefit of this experience requires that you complete the PSAM on your own, the PSAM should be taken neither in a group nor with study aids or reference materials on hand.

The cost of the PSAM is $75. This assessment mechanism consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, divided into three sections of equal length. Each question is assigned to one of the five competency areas, and the questions are evenly distributed throughout all three sections. Each section can be completed in as little as one hour; a maximum of three hours per section is allowed. Prior to starting the first section, you will be asked to complete a short demographic survey. Once you begin a section, you must complete the section in its entirety. You may choose to take all three sections in one sitting or complete one section at a time. You will have 30 days from the time you start the first section to complete all three sections of the PSAM.

You must answer the questions in the order they are presented. You will not be able to review questions or change an answer once you have selected your choice and have moved on to the next question.

At the end of each section, you will have the option of entering into a feedback loop, which will display each question, the answer you selected, the correct answer, a brief rationale justifying the correct answer, and a reference from which you can obtain additional information relating to the topic.

Upon completing all three sections of the PSAM, you will receive a Record of Completion, indicating your name, your address, and the date you completed the PSAM.

You will also receive a separate, unidentified Achievement Report indicating the percentage of questions you answered correctly in each of the five competency areas as well as the percentage of questions you answered correctly overall.

Prior to exiting the PSAM, you will be asked to respond to the Examinee Exit Evaluation.