MC-FP is the process which provides the ABFM with the means of continuously assessing Diplomates. Every specialty board that belongs to the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has agreed to a generic structure with which each of their individual programs must comply. This structure consists of four elements, each designed to assess four important physician characteristics: professionalism (Part I), self-assessment and lifelong learning (Part II), cognitive expertise (Part III), and performance in practice (Part IV). While these elements are similar to and consistent with the ABFM's long-standing, existing recertification program, MC-FP stresses the importance of ongoing participation in activities which evaluate each of these between recertification examinations—a requirement that the ABFM believes encourages clinical excellence and benefits both physicians and their patients.

The roll out of MC-FP was designed to gradually transition all Diplomates into this new program by 2010 by entering all physicians who certify or recertify into this new program in the year after they successfully pass the examination. The first group that entered MC-FP in 2004 was comprised of those physicians who certified or recertified in 2003—the last group to enter into the program in 2010 will be those who certify or recertify in 2009.

Under the original MC-FP program that began in 2004, each ABFM certified Diplomate was required to maintain a current and valid license and complete six Part II Modules (SAMs) and one Part IV Module (PPM)—or approved external module—before sitting for the recertification examination in the sixth or seventh year. The 10-year option now allows Diplomates to complete the requirements at their own pace in three separate 3-year windows (we call these Stages). In the first Stage, Diplomates are required to complete three Part II modules (currently the SAMs) or two Part II modules and one Part IV module (currently a PPM, MIMM, or approved alternative); and in each of the second and third Stages, Diplomates are required to complete two Part II modules and one Part IV module.

To be considered current in MC-FP on the 7-year cycle, a Diplomate must complete one module per year.

Completing these requirements in a timely manner within the first two of the 3-year Stages will allow physicians to extend the life of their certificate from seven to ten years. A Diplomate must hold a currently valid, full and unrestricted license at the end of Stage Two. An approved extension will be issued in the year following the completion of Stage Two. If a Diplomate is unable or chooses not to complete the requirements of Stage One and Stage Two, the 7-year certificate remains valid, but six Part II modules and one Part IV module must be successfully completed within the seven years preceding the next cognitive examination.

It is not necessary to notify the ABFM of your intention to pursue the 10-year track. We will monitor your progress and send you reminders to complete certain requirements within the Stage deadlines.