Self-Evaluation Overview
Self-evaluation is the component of Maintenance of Certification that provides an opportunity for you to maintain a commitment to lifelong learning. You complete the self-evaluation requirement by earning a total of 100 points from two categories:
- Self-Evaluation of Medical Knowledge — open-book modules testing clinical and practical knowledge in a particular field.
- Self-Evaluation of Practice Performance — modules that focus on improving your practice, including the ABIM PIMsm Practice Improvement Modules.
Self-Evaluation Point Requirements
To maintain your certificate, you need to earn a total of 100 self-evaluation points.
If you are renewing one certificate:
- Complete self-evaluation modules to earn 100 points:
- 20 points in Self-Evaluation of Medical Knowledge
- 20 points in Self-Evaluation of Practice Performance
- 60 points from either Self-Evaluation of Medical Knowledge, Self-Evaluation of Practice Performance, or a combination of both
If you are renewing more than one certificate (e.g., Internal Medicine and one subspecialty):
- You can apply the 100 points you have earned – as outlined above – to both certificates you are renewing, provided that the 100 points are still valid at the time your second certificate expires. (Once your points are completed, they are valid for 10 years.)
- You will need to take and pass the exams for each certificate.
Example of How You Can Earn Your 100 Points of Self-Evaluation
| Requirements | Points |
|---|---|
| Total: | 100 POINTS |
| Two ABIM Internal Medicine Annual Updates | 20 points |
| One ABIM Internal Medicine Recent Advances module | 20 points |
| One medical knowledge module derived from ACP MKSAP | 20 points |
| One chronic care PIM | 20 points |
| One Communication PIM | 20 points |
Important Reminders about Self-Evaluation
- These medical knowledge and practice performance self-evaluation categories correspond to the "Maintenance of Certification" framework adopted by all 24 member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
- Self-Evaluation modules are Web-based and can be completed individually or in groups.
- You may also earn CME credit for completing these modules.
- The self-evaluation process is not linked directly to any prescribed form of education; ABIM does not prepare a syllabus. All self-evaluation modules are HIPAA compliant.
Copyrighted Materials
ABIM’s examinations are confidential and copyrighted under the Federal Copyright Act. Candidates agree not to copy, reproduce, reconstruct by dictation or other means, or disclose examination content in any manner. ABIM's Self Evaluation Process Medical Knowledge Modules are also copyrighted works. Candidates agree not to copy, reproduce or make any adaptations of the modules in any manner; and not assist someone else in the infringement of these or any other Board-copyrighted works.
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