How Do PIMs Differ From Traditional Knowledge Self-Evaluation Modules?

ABIM offers traditional self-evaluation modules that test medical knowledge in a specific field and function as an open-book test. In contrast, PIMs focus on quality improvement and practice performance. Specifically, PIMs are Web-based, self-evaluation tools that guide physicians through collecting data from their own practice, using chart reviews, patient surveys and a practice system survey to create a multi-dimensional practice performance assessment. ABIM uses the data submitted electronically by the physician to provide an interactive report. Detailed performance data serve as the basis for selecting areas for improvement and developing an improvement plan. After implementing and testing the improvement plan, physicians report the impact of the implemented changes to ABIM. In addition to Maintenance of Certification credit, physicians who complete a PIM earn 20 CME credits.