MDCMEOverview
The American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) uses a 10-year certification cycle with annual fee requirements and ongoing participation in the Quarterly Questions program. The program emphasizes community learning and self-assessment.
MOC Requirements Summary
| Requirement | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Medical License | Annual | Active and unrestricted |
| CME Credits | Every 2 years | 50 credits (16 self-assessment) |
| Quarterly Questions | 5x per cycle | Pass 5 times in 10 years |
| Practice Improvement | 2x per cycle | From IMP menu |
| Patient Safety | 1x per cycle | One activity |
CME Requirements
- Minimum 50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits per two-year period
- 25 credits per year average
- 16 credits must involve self-assessment and self-reflection
- Attested every 2 years (5 attestations per 10-year cycle)
Quarterly Questions Program
The primary assessment method:
- Community learning approach with quarterly assessments
- Pass 5 times per 10-year cycle (approximately every 2 years)
- Focus on current advances in ophthalmology
- Reinforces excellence in clinical care
Four-Part Structure
| Part | Component | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Medical Licensure | Active, unrestricted license |
| Part 2 | CME & Self-Assessment | 50 credits/2yr + attestation |
| Part 3 | Quarterly Questions | Pass 5x per 10-year cycle |
| Part 4 | Practice Improvement | 2x per cycle + 1 patient safety |
Improvement in Medical Practice
- Two times per cycle (approximately every 5 years)
- Choose from Improvement in Medical Practice Menu
- Attest to completion
Patient Safety
- One time per 10-year cycle
- Patient safety-focused activity required
- Attest to completion
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual fee | $225 |
| 10-year total | $2,250 |
Annual fee due each year to maintain certification.
Key Deadlines
| Requirement | Timing |
|---|---|
| Annual fee | Due each year |
| CME attestation | Every 2 years (5x per cycle) |
| Quarterly Questions | Pass 5x in 10 years |
| Practice Improvement | 2x in 10 years |
| Patient Safety | 1x in 10 years |
Professional Commitment
Participation in ABO MOC demonstrates:
- Commitment to highest standards of safe, effective care
- Self-regulation through career-long engagement
- Regular measurement, refinement, and improvement
- Ongoing professional development
Research on Effectiveness
ABO publishes research on the effectiveness of board certification and ABMS continuing certification programs, available on the ABO website.
Tips for ABO MOC
- Plan CME strategically — Need 50 every 2 years with 16 self-assessment
- Stay current on Quarterly Questions — 5 passing scores needed per cycle
- Don't forget Practice Improvement — Two activities per 10 years
- Complete Patient Safety early — Only one required but mandatory