Evolution of AOA specialty board certification

Area of Science:

• Osteopathic medicine
• Medical education
• Physician certification

Background:

• The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) previously utilized a recertification system for time-limited board certificates.
• A shift towards a more current and ongoing assessment model was identified as necessary.

Purpose of the Study:

• To announce and explain the implementation of the Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) process.
• To inform osteopathic physicians about the transition from the old recertification system to OCC.

Main Methods:

• The OCC process has been implemented across all 18 American Osteopathic Association (AOA) certifying boards.
• The AOA Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists is actively monitoring the system's performance and gathering feedback.

Main Results:

• Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) is now the standard for physicians holding time-limited certificates from AOA boards.
• All 18 AOA certifying boards are participating in the continuous certification process.

Conclusions:

• The OCC represents a significant evolution in the osteopathic board certification landscape.
• The AOA is committed to refining the OCC system based on physician feedback and emerging needs.