Continuing Medical Education in MOCA - FAQs

Continuing Medical Education (CME) is a very important tool in the completion of Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology. First, a diplomate's participation in continuing medical education is an indication that he or she is committed to excel in the field. Second, and most importantly, a specific number of credits in Continuing Medical Education are required to finish part two of the MOCA program. Here are some of the frequently asked questions regarding continuing medical education and its relevance to MOCA:

1. How many credits of Continuing Medical Education do I need to complete?
If you got your diplomate certification in 2004 onwards, you have to complete no less than 350 credits within ten years and at least 250 of those credits have to be under Category 1 of the AMA guidelines. Those who entered the MOCA program after the 1st of January 2008 must complete a specific number of Continuing Medical Education Credits based on the year you got your diplomate certification.

2. What activities are under CME Category 1?
All activities conducted by approved sponsors of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) are under CME Category 1. All specific activities are outlined in the 2010 revision of the Physician's Recognition Award and Credit System.

3. Are my board certification and subspecialty certification good for CME credits?
No, the ABA does not give CME Credits for your specialty and even sub-specialty certification. You will, however, get 50 credits for the completion of your 12-month fellowship training in any ACGME-accredited sub-specialty program.

4. How is "Lifelong Learning" different from "Self-Assessment"?
Lifelong learning activities are focused on increasing your skills and knowledge in anesthesiology. This could be attained by attending lectures, seminars, and conferences related to your specialty or sub-specialty. Self-assessment activities on the other hand are intended to assist you in determining your current level of skill and knowledge in formats such as question and answer activities.

5. Do I need to have CME activities every year for the 10-year MOCA cycle?
No, you are not required to complete an annual minimum requirement for CME credits. You are, however, required to finish CME activities in no less than 5 years of the 10-year MOCA program.

6. Why did I get credited for CME activities I did not report?
Continuing Medical Education providers have the liberty to submit CME credits and activities to the ABA for your behalf.