CHEST Guidelines-Maintenance-of-Certification

Maintenance-of-Certification_chest

Pdf Summary

The article discusses the ongoing challenges and changes in the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) system for physicians, particularly focusing on the framework set by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). The main contention is with Part III of the framework, which involves high-stakes assessments of knowledge and skills, causing dissatisfaction among doctors. To address this, the ABMS's Vision for the Future Commission recommended shifting the focus of MOC from being summative to formative, emphasizing continuous education and closing knowledge gaps over merely grading.<br /><br />In response to these recommendations, some medical boards have begun adopting innovative assessment methods. For instance, the American Board of Anesthesiology introduced the MOCA Minute program, which allows physicians to answer questions via digital devices at their convenience, providing immediate feedback and educational resources. Similarly, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) developed an alternative to the traditional ten-year exam called Knowledge Check-In and plans to roll out a self-paced pathway starting in 2022.<br /><br />These developments emphasize that the MOC should focus on continual learning rather than exclusion, allowing for more personalized and relevant assessment. The article highlights the need for ongoing collaboration between the ABIM and medical societies to ensure the support and engagement of the physician community. Additionally, it encourages flexible, cost-effective assessment options that align with practical considerations of daily medical practice.<br /><br />Overall, the piece signals a shift towards a more adaptable and education-focused MOC approach, aiming to improve clinical competence and patient care while addressing the concerns and preferences of the medical community.

Keywords

Maintenance of Certification

MOC

American Board of Medical Specialties

ABMS

Vision for the Future Commission

MOCA Minute

Knowledge Check-In

continuous education

medical boards

clinical competence