Maintenance of certification (MOC) and continuing medical education (CME) are two types of structured learning physicians encounter throughout their careers. However, they also have some significant differences.
From who requires them and why to whether some activities can count for both, here’s everything you need to know about MOC versus CME.
Continuing Medical Education
The medical field changes frequently, meaning what you learned in school and your residency may become outdated as time goes on. To combat this issue, state medical boards implement CME requirements to help doctors stay current with the latest health knowledge and advancements.
Most state boards require CME to maintain your license to practice medicine. Keep in mind that the number of CME credits you need to earn varies depending on where and how you’re licensed, so it’s best to check requirements regularly.
If you don’t meet your medical board’s CME requirements, you can’t renew your license and:
- You’re at risk of financial penalties.
- You may be required to complete the hours anyway.
- You could face disciplinary action.
With that said, staying up to date on the latest information is crucial not only for maintaining your license but also for providing better care.
What Are MOC Points?
While CME is broader, maintenance of certification is tailored to your specialty. The credentials and criteria used for MOC are overseen by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
Each specialty can set its own MOC criteria using guidance from the ABMS, so a family medicine practitioner’s requirements may be different than an emergency doctor’s. For example, the American Board of Internal Medicine requires physicians to earn at least 100 points every five years.
MOC is evaluated by four main criteria:
- Evidence of professional standing: Includes peer review, confirmation of unrestricted licensure and hospital credentials
- Lifelong learning and self-assessment: CME credits dedicated to Self-Assessment Examinations
- Cognitive expertise: Successful completion of a Knowledge Assessment
- Evidence of performance in practice: A peer review process and submission of care lists
Luckily, the ABIM and the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) have collaborated to make it easy to find qualifying activities. Eligible options include society meetings, Longitudinal Knowledge Assessments, journal-based learning and grand rounds.
What Happens If I Don’t Meet MOC Requirements?
Doctors who fail to meet their MOC requirements could continue practicing general medicine. However, they may face other serious consequences, including:
- Fines
- Legal action
- Sanctioning
- Lower reimbursement rates
- Damaged reputation and credibility
- Higher malpractice premiums
- Inability to join professional organizations
With that in mind, it’s best to stay up to date with your specialty board’s MOC requirements.
Does MOC Count as CME (And Vice Versa)?
Yes, many AMA PRA Category 1 and Category 2 continuing medical education credits count for MOC points. In general, CME credits can count for MOC if the content reflects your specialty.
Remember to check that the CME activity is registered with the ACCME for MOC to ensure you’ll earn the points. Additionally, MOC requires more documentation than CME, so the provider may need to send proof to the specialty board.
Other Things to Note
You’re already required to complete CME credits to maintain your licensure and stay up to date with the latest advancements. So, you might be wondering about the benefits of earning MOC points, too. Here are some important things to note about maintenance of certification:
- Board certification helps physicians deliver better care.
- It can increase the odds of patient adherence to treatment.
- MOC makes it easier to retain knowledge of medications.
- Board-certified doctors can help reduce Medicare spending.
- It can enhance your diagnostic skills.
- Doctors who earn MOC points are two times less likely to face disciplinary action.
In all, maintaining board certification through MOC is a valuable way to set yourself apart while providing better care.
If you’re ready to earn MOC points while you complete CME, you’re in the right place. Starting in 2026, ABIM members can register to earn both MOC and CME credits for our events. Browse our seminars today to get started!