CAQs Have Launched!

ABO was excited to announce the launch of our Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) program at Optometry’s Meeting in June. The work to develop a CAQ pilot program began in early 2022 with several surveys and a diverse focus group. Based on multiple factors, including input from current Diplomates as well as residents and recent graduates, the areas of Glaucoma and Cornea/Contact Lens were chosen to begin the pilot. Other practice areas considered were Retina, Myopia Management, Medical Pediatrics and Surgical Procedures. Upon evaluation of the pilot program in 12-18 months, additional focused CAQ areas may be developed.

To learn more about ABO’s CAQ program and the benefits for optometrists who have a focused practice in Glaucoma or Cornea & Contact Lens, we invite you to view our new CAQ Introduction Video.

Applications for the CAQs are now available and may be accessed through a Diplomate’s Learning Plan page. Earning a CAQ requires submitting 100 qualification points and passing a specialty area assessment. Qualification points consist of activities such as specialty society membership, residency, patient encounters and continuing education courses. The specialty assessment is taken through the learning plan page and consists of approximately 40 multiple choice questions. Assessments are expected to be available in September and any Diplomate with an open CAQ application will receive an email when the assessment for their CAQ opens. Beginning in 2024, CAQ assessments will be available to take between July 1 and December 31 annually.

Once a Diplomate has earned a CAQ, they will begin a new MOC cycle the following year with an emphasis in their specialty area. There is no additional fee to maintain a CAQ.

Diplomates who apply for a CAQ and are in an active MOC cycle will continue meeting their current MOC requirements until the specialty assessment has been passed, the CAQ has been granted and they have been enrolled in a new MOC cycle.