MDCMEOverview
The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) uses a 10-year MOC cycle for diplomates with time-limited certificates (issued beginning 1986). Lifetime certificate holders may voluntarily participate.
MOC Requirements
| Requirement | Years 1-5 | Years 6-10 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| CME Credits | 120 minimum | 120 minimum | 240 |
| SAE Credits | 20 minimum | 20 minimum | 40 |
Note: Additional credits earned in Years 1-5 do not carry over to Years 6-10.
CME Requirements
- 240 total Category 1 CME credits over 10-year cycle
- Approximately 24 CME credits per year required
- Self-Assessment Examinations (SAE) count toward CME requirement
Self-Assessment Examinations (SAE)
SAE credits are embedded within the MOC framework:
| Period | Minimum SAE Credits |
|---|---|
| Years 1-5 | 20 credits |
| Years 6-10 | 20 credits |
| Total | 40 credits |
Assessment Options
Three cognitive assessment pathways available:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Computer-based Examination | Written knowledge assessment |
| Oral Examination | Oral knowledge assessment |
| ABOS WLA | Web-based Longitudinal Assessment |
ABOS WLA Program
- Web-based questions answered at your convenience
- Knowledge sources provided for study
- Flexible ongoing assessment
- Knowledge sources posted annually for upcoming year
Four-Part Structure
| Part | Component | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Part I | Professional Standing | Peer review, license verification, credentials |
| Part II | Lifelong Learning | 240 CME with SAE component |
| Part III | Cognitive Expertise | Exam or WLA completion |
| Part IV | Performance in Practice | QI model, peer review, case lists |
Part I: Professional Standing
- Peer review by certified orthopaedic surgeons familiar with your work
- Evaluation from hospital leadership (chief of staff, orthopaedics, surgery, anesthesia, nursing)
- Full, unrestricted medical licensure confirmation
- Hospital credentials verification
- Professional Standing Update and Case List required in Years 7, 8, or 9
Part IV: Performance in Practice
- Quality improvement model
- Stringent peer review process
- Case list submissions (Years 7-9)
- Credentials committee review of case lists
Credentials Committee Review
The board may initiate review of practice prior to 10-year expiration:
- Assesses adherence to professional standards
- Reviews MOC requirements compliance
- May result in action against certification
- Can terminate certification before 10-year period ends
Key Deadlines
| Requirement | Timeline |
|---|---|
| CME/SAE Years 1-5 | 120 CME (including 20 SAE) |
| CME/SAE Years 6-10 | 120 CME (including 20 SAE) |
| Professional Standing Update | Years 7, 8, or 9 |
| Case List | Years 7, 8, or 9 |
| Certificate expiration | End of 10-year cycle |
ABOS WLA Knowledge Sources
- Posted annually for upcoming year
- Guides study materials for longitudinal assessment
- Available at no additional cost
Tips for ABOS MOC
- Don't bank credits — Years 1-5 credits don't carry over
- Include SAE credits — 40 total SAE required over cycle
- Plan for Years 7-9 — Professional Standing Update and Case List due
- Choose your assessment — Computer exam, oral exam, or WLA
- Stay current — Credentials committee may review before cycle end