ABMS, ABPMR and AAPM&R: What’s the Difference?
American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS):
The federation of specialty certifying boards that oversees the standardization of certification, including MOC®, its framework, requirements and criteria.
American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR):
Sets the certification requirements for the specialty of PM&R and defines how the ABMS framework of MOC® is implemented for PM&R.
American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R):
An independent organization from ABMS and ABPMR, AAPM&R advocates on behalf of its members and offers resources to satisfy MOC requirements as efficiently as possible.
What do I Need to do for MOC?
In 2019, ABPMR announced a transition to a new Longitudinal Assessment for PM&R (LA-PM&R), replacing the high-stakes exam. With this transition, AAPM&R encourages members to connect directly with ABPMR regarding any questions. Where you’re at in the (re)certification process impacts your options and current requirements as ABPMR transitions all Diplomates to the new format. While AAPM&R is here to support you however we can, only ABPMR has the information needed to inform your necessary next steps in the MOC process.
American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR)
Phone: (507) 282-1776
Fax: (507) 282-9242
Email: office@abpmr.org
Website: www.abpmr.org
Once you get direction regarding your requirements, know that AAPM&R membership offers you resources to meet each component, including self-assessment credit and access to Practice Improvement Projects (PIPs). All resources are available on our Online Learning Portal.
Remember: All Associate and Fellow members of AAPM&R receive a complimentary SAE-P coupon code upon renewal.