We are writing with an update on activities related to Maintenance of Certification (MOC). As you know from prior communications, SCAI is very concerned about the challenges members face in completing the MOC requirements defined by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and required by the parent organization, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). We believe that maintaining physician competence is of the highest importance but that the current MOC process provides little value and is unnecessarily burdensome. SCAI is thoroughly committed to efforts to transform the process to be both meaningful and efficient.

Last week, at the American Medical Association (AMA) House of Delegates meeting, MOC was a major topic of focus. SCAI was an integral part of these discussions with representatives participating in the discussions to evaluate several resolutions proposed to modify the ABMS's four-part MOC process. Those resolutions will be formally voted on by the AMA House of Delegates and proposed to the ABMS.

In addition, SCAI's MOC Working Group, chaired by Alan Yeung, MD, FSCAI, has developed concrete recommendations for MOC change based upon SCAI member needs. These changes range from semantics used within MOC, to strategies for the integration of professional societies directly into the MOC process. The Working Group recognizes both the importance and the urgency first, to modify the MOC process so that it becomes of value to you and, second, to be certain you have useful MOC tools.

The Working Group is also evaluating options for direct communication with the ABIM regarding modifications to their MOC process as well as launching productive conversations between with the House of Cardiology and the ABIM. SCAI is not alone in its dissatisfaction with MOC. Multiple organizations have questioned the MOC process, at the specialty and subspecialty board level as well as at the level of the ABMS, which sets mandates for its 24 member boards.

All members must remember that SCAI is committed to this process. We will continue to keep you informed about our progress on MOC. We appreciate your feedback and suggestions.

With thanks, 

Charles Chambers, MD, FSCAI
SCAI President, 2014-15

Alan Yeung, MD, FSCAI
SCAI MOC Working Group Chair