Overview
The American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) offers two pathways depending on certificate type: the 5-Year Milestone pathway for newly certified diplomates and the 10-Year MOC pathway for those transitioning from the former system.
Two Pathways
| Pathway |
Certificate Type |
Exam Eligibility |
| 5-Year Milestone |
New structure |
Certificates expiring 2031+ |
| 10-Year MOC |
Former system |
Certificates expiring 2026-2027 |
2026 Examination Schedule
Primary Thoracic 10-Year MOC
| Milestone |
Date |
| Application opens |
March 2026 |
| Late application deadline |
TBD |
| Exam administration |
September - December 2026 |
Primary Thoracic 5-Year Milestone
| Milestone |
Date |
| Application opens |
July 2026 |
| Late application deadline |
TBD |
| Exam administration |
September - December 2026 |
CME Credit Award
Upon successful CC completion:
- 60 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits awarded
- ABTS covers electronic CME certificate expense
- No individual application required
- CME certificates emailed with download link through AMA Ed Hub
Professionalism and Code of Conduct (NEW)
- Diplomates must respect and adhere to professionalism code
- Reflects ABTS mission to serve the public
- Required for certification
PULSE 360 Program (NEW)
Effective for residents completing training June-August 2026:
| Component |
Details |
| Purpose |
360-degree feedback for professionalism and communication |
| Surveys |
March 2025 and Fall 2025 |
| Cost |
ABTS underwrites all costs |
| Requirement |
Mandatory for board certification applicants |
| ACGME |
Satisfies professionalism competency |
| Debriefing |
Includes PULSE Coach session with resident |
Written Exam Format Change (2025)
- Format updated to improve content coverage and validity
- Reduced from 4 to 3 answer options on multiple choice questions
- Assesses clinical knowledge and surgical skills
- Evaluates competency for safe and effective patient care
Exam Types
| Exam |
Format |
| Part I (Written) Qualifying Exam |
3 answer choice format |
| Congenital Subspecialty Part I (Written) |
3 answer choice format |
| Continuing Certification Written Exam |
Assessment |
| Congenital CC Written Exam |
Subspecialty assessment |
Certification Types
- Primary Thoracic Surgery
- Congenital Cardiac Surgery
- Subspecialties available
Policy Changes (Effective January 1, 2026)
New requirements for diplomates seeking to renew lapsed/expired certificates. New Continuing Certification Booklet of Information forthcoming.
Tips for ABTS MOC
- Know your pathway — 5-Year Milestone vs. 10-Year MOC
- Apply early — Avoid late application fees
- Expect 3-option format — New exam format as of 2025
- Earn 60 CME credits — Awarded upon successful completion
- Watch for PULSE 360 — Required for new certification applicants
Related Resources
MDCME