American Board of Radiology: Maintenance of Certification

Purpose: Maintenance of Certification (MOC) recognizes that in addition to medical knowledge, several essential elements involved in delivering quality care must be developed and maintained throughout one's career. The MOC process is designed to facilitate and document the professional development of each American Board of Radiology (ABR) diplomate through its focus on the essential elements of quality care in Diagnostic Radiology, its subspecialties, Radiation Oncology, and Radiologic Physics. The initial elements of the ABR MOC program have been developed in accord with guidelines of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Further details will be developed as the process evolves. MOC and Certification: All diplomates with 10-year, time-limited primary or subspecialty certificates who wish to maintain certification must successfully complete the requirements of the appropriate ABR MOC program for their specialty or subspecialty. Subspecialists will be required to maintain primary certification in order to retain subspecialty certification. Holders of multiple certificates must meet ABR MOC requirements specific to the certificates held. Diplomates with lifelong certificates are not required to participate in the MOC, but are strongly encouraged to do so. MOC Components, Competencies, and Requirements: MOC is based on documentation of individual participation in the four components of MOC: (a) professional standing, (b) lifelong learning and self-assessment, (c) cognitive expertise, and (d) performance in practice. Within these components, MOC will address six competencies - medical knowledge, patient care, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism, practice-based learning and improvement, and systems-based practice. Professional Standing: For Diagnostic Radiology and Radiation Oncology diplomates, documentation of professional standing is based on continuous possession of valid, unrestricted licenses to practice medicine in all states in which the physician is licensed. For Radiologic Physics diplomates, documentation of professional standing is based on attestation letters, documentation of licensure, or other regulatory agency certification for the practice of medical physics (when applicable), and documentation of expertise-based appointments or recognition.