The demonstration-based assessment component of the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) program lets you demonstrate (in-person) major professional competencies that cannot be assessed through documents or written exams. It is made up of two components:

• a structured panel interview, and
• simulated patient case review and interactions.

Structured interview

PLAR Applicants must attempt this stage within six months of receiving notification of successful completion of Stage 3 of the PLAR program. The structured interview assesses an applicants understanding of fundamental research concepts and methodologies, and ability to interpret and apply that information.

Format

PLAR applicants are provided one hour to review an article and draft answers to questions provided. This is followed by a 90-minute structured interview conducted by a panel of three registered ND assessors who will ask questions about the article. PLAR applicants are permitted to refer to their drafted responses during the interview.

Simulated Patient Case Review and Interactions

PLAR Applicants must attempt this stage within six months of receiving notification of successful completion of Stage 4 of the PLAR program. This stage assesses an applicants ability to apply naturopathic clinical competencies to patient scenarios. These competencies include:

• communication skills,
• physical examination techniques,
• clinical practical skills, and
• clinical reasoning.

Format

PLAR applicants are provided approximately three hours, including a short break, to complete three simulated (i.e., pretend) patient case reviews. For each patient case, the applicant will be required to review a short statement of the patient’s presenting issues or “complaint”, perform relevant physical exams and practical techniques (i.e., “interactions”) on live or simulated models, perform patient charting or “SOAP” notes and respond to questions posed by assessors around differential and working diagnoses treatment plans, concerns and referral indicators.

Number of Attempts

PLAR applicants have two opportunities to successfully complete the structured interview and the simulated patient case reviews and interactions. Decisions of the demonstration-based assessments are appealable in accordance with the PLAR Appeals Policy.

Cost

The following fees are charged for each attempt of the PLAR demonstration-based assessments:

Structured Panel Interview (and retake): $450 + HST
Simulated Patient Case Reviews and Interactions (and retake): $1,300 + HST

To learn more about the demonstration-based assessment components, or about the PLAR program in general, please refer to the PLAR Applicant Handbook.