MDCMEOverview
The American Board of Urology (ABU) uses a 5-year continuous cycle (Cycle A and Cycle B) with no certificate expiration for continuously participating diplomates. Effective February 2024, ABU transitioned from time-limited to continuous certificates.
No Certificate Expiration
Key change: Diplomates who remain active in all CUC (Continuing Urology Certification) aspects are continuously certified. This eliminates the time-limited certificate paradigm.
5-Year Cycle Structure
| Year | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Knowledge Exposure | 8 journal articles + questions |
| Year 2 | Knowledge Reinforcement | 40 online questions (self-assessment) |
| Year 3 | Knowledge Exposure | 8 journal articles + questions |
| Year 4 | Knowledge Reinforcement | 40 online questions (self-assessment) |
| Year 5 | Knowledge Assessment | 90 online questions (if required) |
Knowledge Exposure (Years 1 & 3)
- 8 contemporary journal articles reviewed over 8 months
- Articles grouped into Core Urology Guidelines sections and module-specific sections
- 4 articles from core/guideline sections + 4 from any sections
- Each article linked to 5 questions
- Optional CME credit awarded by AUA at nominal fee (threshold 80% correct or better)
Knowledge Reinforcement (Years 2 & 4)
Self-assessment component:
- 40 online questions (open resource, untimed format)
- 20 core urology + 20 module-specific questions
- Cannot discuss questions or obtain outside assistance
- Threshold goal: >65% correct
- Immediate feedback with correct answers and references
Knowledge Assessment (Year 5)
Summative assessment:
- 90 online questions (45 core, 45 module-specific)
- 24-hour completion window
- Open resource, untimed format
- NOT pass/fail
- Exemption: Diplomates with >65% average on Knowledge Reinforcement (Years 2 & 4) may skip Year 5 Assessment but can participate if desired
Module Selection
Diplomates select module best characterizing their practice:
| Module | Focus |
|---|---|
| Lap-Robotics Upper tract obstruction | Surgical procedures |
| Renal calculi | Stone management |
| Andrology | Impotency, androgen deficiency, infertility |
| General Office-based Urology | BPH, oncology, calculi, ED |
Core knowledge applies to all modules; module-specific content addresses your practice focus.
Two 5-Year Cycles (A and B)
- Both cycles similar but not duplicate activities
- Cycle A: Enhanced requirements for diplomates with knowledge gaps (may require complication/mortality narratives, practice log, peer review)
- Cycle B: Requires complication/mortality narratives and practice log every 10 years
Participation Status
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CERTIFIED | All activities completed satisfactorily |
| One-year deferral | Available case-by-case for life events |
| NOT CERTIFIED (up to 2 years) | Must complete activities + late fee within following year |
| NOT CERTIFIED (>2 years) | Re-entry plan developed case-by-case |
CUC Portfolio
- Documents all required activities
- Years 1-5 structured with specific activities
- Detailed year-by-year guidance provided
- Individualized status overview and pending requirements available
Subspecialty Certifications
- Pediatric Urology
- Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (URPS)
Tips for ABU MOC
- Choose your module — Select one that matches your practice
- Aim for >65% — Exempts you from Year 5 Assessment
- Check portal periodically — Important information posted
- Stay active — No expiration for continuously participating diplomates
- Request deferral if needed — One-year deferral available for life events