The American Board of Ophthalmology’s MOC process has replaced the current recertification requirements beginning in 2006, for ophthalmologists Board Certified after July 1, 1992. Developed according to standards established by the American Board of Medical Specialties, MOC is designed for practicing ophthalmologists to complete over a 10-year period. Other medical specialties are completing a similar process. Visit the
ABO’s Web site for more detailed information.
The POC is the knowledge base of ophthalmic information that the ABO uses as the basis for MOC examinations. POC topics are developed in an easy-to-read outline format and organized by practice emphasis area (i.e., subspecialty). The POC comprises the most clinically relevant information a practicing ophthalmologist needs to know to remain certified.
Download the POC. The POC also forms the basis for the Academy’s Maintenance of Certification
products and services.
The nine subspecialty areas and Comprehensive Ophthalmology, as defined by the ABO, that ophthalmologists can be tested on as part of the MOC process. In addition to Core Ophthalmic Knowledge (required), PEAs include:
- Comprehensive Ophthalmology
- Cataract/Anterior Segment
- Cornea/External Disease
- Glaucoma
- Neuro-Ophthalmology and Orbit
- Oculoplastics and Orbit
- Pediatric Ophthalmology/Strabismus
- Refractive Management/Intervention
- Retina/Vitreous
- Uveitis
The fundamental ophthalmic knowledge every practicing ophthalmologist should know regardless of practice emphasis. All ophthalmologists participating in the MOC process will be required to be tested in Core.
The ABO’s MOC process to assess knowledge includes the DOCK and the PORT. For more information, visit the
ABO’s Web site.
Beginning in 2012, there will be two options for Diplomates to complete the Part 4 Performance Assessment: