FAQs | BE-SAFE Talking points
What is BE-SAFE?
BE-SAFE! stands for Bariatric Endoscopy- Skill Acquisition Focused Evaluation. ASMBS and SAGES have worked together to develop a verification process for members with experience in performing bariatric endoscopy to verify they have acquired the necessary skills to perform these procedures.
Why should I take BE-SAFE?
Take BE-SAFE because it documents your skill set and your ability to offer these endoscopic procedures to patients in need. BE-SAFE runs through different scenarios which assess your judgment and ability to use different tools in the endoscopic armamentarium to address complications following bariatric procedures. These endoscopic approaches can facilitate minimally invasive care in this high-risk patient group.
Do I have to do BE-SAFE
BE-SAFE is not a requirement for anyone. However, many physicians who perform bariatric surgery or care for complications after bariatric surgery can benefit from doing BE-SAFE. These skills are not required often, but when you need them, it is helpful to know you can implement your skills safely. In some institutions, this type of skills verification can also help with credentialing in the endo suite as well as OR for bariatric endoscopy.
How will BE-SAFE verification provide an advantage for me?
Many physicians who perform bariatric surgery or care for complications after bariatric surgery can benefit from doing BE-SAFE. These skills are not required often, but when you need them, it is helpful to know you can implement your skills safely. In some institutions, this type of skills verification can also help with credentialing in the endo suite as well as OR for bariatric endoscopy.
Why is BE-SAFE a verification and not a certification?
BE-SAFE is a verification because we are not, as societies, certifying surgeons in this skill set. However, this test can verify your skill set.
Why do I need a baseline of endoscopy before taking BE-SAFE?
BE-SAFE is considered a skill set in advanced endoscopy. If you are looking to acquire basic endoscopic skills, consider Fundamentals of Endoscopic Skills at https://www.fesprogram.org.
Do I have to do any endoscopy in my practice prior to taking BE-SAFE?
BE-SAFE is considered a skill set in advanced endoscopy. If you are looking to acquire basic endoscopic skills, consider Fundamentals of Endoscopic Skills at https://www.fesprogram.org.
What do I need as a baseline for BE-SAFE?
Prior to taking any of the verification testing for BE-SAFE, you should complete the online didactics at https://besafe.asmbs.org. You should have performed at least 50 upper endoscopies in your practice or complete FES prior to signing up for this verification. When you register for the lab exam, you will be required to upload a case log or FES Certificate.
What is the process to sign up?
Go to https://besafe.asmbs.org/ and follow the steps on the right side of the screen. The online videos are free.
What should I study for the written exam?
Please review the didactic videos on https://besafe.asmbs.org/ prior to taking the written test.
How can I prepare for the skills assessment?
Please review the didactic videos on https://besafe.asmbs.org/ prior to taking the skills assessment test.
Where and when is the test offered?
The hands-on skills verification will be offered at the SAGES national meeting and the ASMBS Annual Meeting. There will be intermittent offerings of the exam at regional courses. Please visit the website for details.
When will I know if I passed?
You will receive feedback on the written exam within a week of the test. You will be notified within 2 weeks after the hands-on test as to whether you passed.
What do I do if I do not pass the skills test?
If you do not pass the skills test, we suggest you review the videos again. You can also reach out to any of the examiners to discuss further. You will receive a written explanation as to why you did not pass. You then can retake the skills test at a future opportunity at no cost.