The Value of the Maintaining Certification
Maintenance of Certification provides doctors of optometry with a structured pathway for keeping up to date with new discoveries, technological advancements and changing practice guidelines. It is a program designed for optometrists by optometrists and ensures continued competency through career-long education and assessment.
The American Board of Optometry’s Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program is a four-part process based on a model developed by the American Board of Medical Specialties. This four-part process encompasses our continuous assessment program, known as CAP.
Part I: Professionalism and Professional Standing
Part II: Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment
Part III: Assessment of Knowledge, Judgement and Skills
Part IV: Improvement in Practice
Most research that has studied the relationship between MOC participation and patient outcomes supports the association of MOC with better patient care. Research also shows that patient confidence is higher when being cared for by a board certified doctor. In a 2010 ABMS consumer survey, 95% of Americans said it was important to them that their doctors participate in learning programs to maintain their board certification.
CAP was developed with input from over 500 Diplomates. It is designed to provide flexible, high-quality learning and assessment to support optometrists in their daily practice. The program relies heavily on contemporary adult learning theory which promotes the use of assessment for knowledge rather than assessment of knowledge.
Many studies have demonstrated decreasing practice performance with increasing years in practice. A 2005 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, found that a majority of performance indicators decrease with increasing years in practice. MOC programs seek to ensure that doctors are continually enhancing their clinical knowledge and improving skills to maintain a high level of competency throughout their professional career.
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By going through the voluntary process of becoming board certified, our Diplomates demonstrate competence beyond entry level.
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