How to Maintain Viability of Your ABIM Certificate
Is Your ABIM Certificate at Risk? Here's How to Keep It Active
You worked hard to earn that ABIM (American Board of Internal Medicine) certificate—grueling exams, countless hours of study, and relentless dedication. But here’s the catch: it’s not a lifetime deal. You’ve got to maintain it, or risk letting it lapse. If you’re wondering, “How do I keep my board certificate valid?”—you’re in the right place.
Let’s break it down step by step, without the jargon, just straight-up useful information.
Understanding ABIM Maintenance of Certification (MOC)
The ABIM Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program ensures physicians stay up to date with medical advancements. If you hold an ABIM certificate, you must engage in the MOC process to keep it valid. But don't worry—it’s manageable when you know what’s required.
What Are the MOC Requirements?
To maintain your ABIM certificate, you need to:
- Earn MOC Points: Accumulate at least 100 MOC points every five years.
- Complete a Knowledge Check: Either the long-form exam (every 10 years) or the ABIM Longitudinal Knowledge Assessment (LKA).
- Keep Your License Active: Your state medical license must be in good standing.
- Meet Professionalism and Ethical Standards: Follow ABIM’s Code of Conduct.
That’s the bare minimum. But how do you actually keep up?
Step-by-Step Guide to Staying Certified
1. Stay on Top of Your MOC Points
Each five-year cycle, you need to earn 100 MOC points. Here’s how:
- Medical Knowledge Activities: Online modules, case studies, and self-assessment programs.
- Practice Improvement Activities: Quality improvement projects and patient safety programs.
- CME (Continuing Medical Education) Credits: Many CMEs now count toward MOC points.
Pro Tip: Some hospitals and employers offer MOC-eligible activities. Check with your workplace!
2. Choose Your Assessment Wisely
You’ve got two choices for the assessment part:
- Traditional 10-Year Exam: A big, sit-down exam every decade.
- Longitudinal Knowledge Assessment (LKA): Answer quarterly questions over time, which is more flexible.
If test-day anxiety is a thing for you, the LKA might be a better fit.
3. Monitor Your Certification Status Regularly
Don't wait until the last minute. Log in to ABIM's Physician Portal to check:
- Your MOC points status
- When your assessment is due
- What activities you still need to complete
Set a yearly reminder so deadlines don’t creep up on you.
What Happens If You Let Your ABIM Certificate Expire?
Not maintaining your ABIM certification has real consequences:
- You lose your board-certified status.
- It can affect your hospital privileges.
- Some insurers and employers require board certification.
If your certification lapses, you’ll need to complete all outstanding MOC requirements and retake the long-form exam to regain certification.
Avoid the hassle. Keep up with your MOC!
FAQs: Your MOC Questions, Answered
"Can I regain my certification if I let it lapse?" Yes, but you’ll need to fulfill any missing MOC requirements and pass the 10-year exam.
"Are there any exemptions for senior physicians?" If you’re retired or no longer practicing, ABIM offers a “Certified, Not Required” status.
"Can CME credits count toward MOC points?" Yes! Many CME activities double as MOC credits. Look for ABIM-approved CME programs.
"How do I check my board certification status?" Visit ABIM's official verification page.
Final Thoughts: Stay Proactive, Stay Certified
Maintaining your ABIM certificate isn’t just about keeping a credential—it’s about staying at the top of your field. Set reminders, choose the right assessment, and take advantage of CME-MOC combos to make the process easier.
Need help tracking your certification? Contact us via the web for personalized guidance.
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