Key Deadline Approaching for Some ABFM Diplomates

Here's a reminder for family physicians who certified or recertified with the American Board of Family Medicine, or ABFM, in 2004: If you want to continue on the path to earning a three-year extension on your certificate, you only have until Dec. 31 of this year to complete the first stage of the ABFM's Maintenance of Certification Program for Family Physicians, or MC-FP, 10-year certification option.

If you need a refresher on expectations for the 10-year certification track, the ABFM Web site has developed a special MC-FP section that offers a detailed schematic on this option, which was announced in fall 2005 and became effective Jan. 1, 2006.

Briefly, the 10-year option allows ABFM diplomates to complete two MC-FP Part II modules and one Part IV module at their own pace in three distinct three-year windows, known as stages. Diplomates who certified or recertified in 2004 have the option of completing three Part II modules during their first stage only.

Currently, the ABFM's self-assessment modules offer the only option for fulfilling Part II of the MC-FP. To fulfill the Part IV requirement, diplomates can choose either a performance-in practice module from the ABFM, an AAFP METRIC (Measuring, Evaluating and Translating Research Into Care) module, or any of the other approved alternatives (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance physician recognition programs).

What's the big incentive to opt for the 10-year, rather than the traditional seven-year, certificate? According to ABFM President and CEO James Puffer, M.D., it comes down to doing the math. "Most people are certainly going to appreciate right off the bat that they probably will have the opportunity to take one less examination, maybe two less examinations, over the course of their entire professional career," Puffer told AAFP News Now soon after the option was first announced.

For the 11,289 FPs who successfully completed their certification or recertification exam in 2004 and who want to take advantage of the 10-year option, doing the math means making sure they've got those first three modules -- in whichever combination -- covered by year's end. Those who choose not to complete the three modules before Dec. 31 are automatically moved onto the seven-year certification path. The seven-year path requires completion of six Part II modules and one Part IV module before applying for recertification.

Diplomates who have questions regarding their current MC-FP status or who need help logging into the MC-FP system or completing the online modules are invited to contact the ABFM Support Center by phone at (877) 223-7437 or via e-mail for assistance.