For now, the new Standards do not mean a change in ABOG Maintenance of Certification (MOC) tasks or deadlines for 2021. ABOG is already meeting many of the requirements that are outlined in the new Standards, and for any not being met yet, ABOG will be working toward developing the necessary content and OB GYN relevant processes over the next 2-3 years. Any changes or new requirements to ABOG’s MOC program will be communicated well in advance of requirement deadlines to ensure that diplomates have sufficient time to understand and complete any new requirements.
As part of its commitment to continuous improvement, ABMS initiated Continuing Board Certification: Vision for the Future, a 2018 initiative that brought together multiple partners to envision a system of continuing board certification that is meaningful, relevant, and of value to physicians. The Standards are structured to support and provide diplomates with the tools they need to stay current in medical knowledge; prepare them to address emerging medical and public health issues; and help them identify and address opportunities for practice improvement within the systems in which they work.
Board-certified obstetricians and gynecologists volunteered in critical roles in the planning committees, the Vision Commission, the Standards Task Forces, the ABMS Oversight Committee, and the ABMS Board of Directors. This diverse group of physicians nominated by specialty societies, ACOG, and ABOG, helped develop the principles and standards.
Yes, all the Member Boards must commit to helping the medical profession improve health and health care based on the new ABMS Standards.
No. ABOG’s MOC program whereby diplomates must apply for the program and complete all MOC tasks annually to maintain certification will remain the same.
Much of the current MOC program will remain the same, such as the Lifelong Learning component with article-based assessments, because it already meets the ABMS Standard regarding “the need for offering practice-specific content relevant to diplomates.” However, there will be some components that may undergo some changes to meet the new Standards requirements, like the Professionalism and Professional Standing component. The next few years will be a development and transition period that will include collaboration with OB GYN professional societies and practicing diplomates. Diplomates will be notified in advance of any changes to ABOG’s MOC program to allow sufficient time to understand and meet any new requirements.
Visit ABMS.org for more specifics about the new Continuing Certification Standards.