David F. Keren M.D.

Trustee, ABP

 

The American Board of Pathology (ABP) does not require recertification of Pathologists who received their certification by the ABP prior to January 1, 2006 (non-time-limited certificates). Pathologists who became certified after this date have time limited certificates and need to participate in the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) process. 

 

That being said, there are many circumstances where Pathologists who were certified prior to January 1, 2006 need to demonstrate continued competency in the practice of pathology. Upon moving to another state, licensure may require demonstration of continued competency, possibly requiring a secure examination. Further, as the MOC process becomes the norm for practicing pathologists, state licensing agencies and/or credentialing groups may require such recertification.

 

To accommodate these needs and the desires of some Pathologists with non-time-limited certificates to demonstrate continued competency in the practice of pathology, the ABP offers a Voluntary Recertification Process. This is only available to holders of non-time-limited certificates in one of the primary disciplines of pathology (AP/CP, AP, or CP). Voluntary recertification in subspecialties is not available.

 

The process is detailed on the ABP website (www.abpath.com) but basically incorporates many features of MOC. Briefly this includes a requirement for medical licensure, demonstration of medical staff membership, 150 CME credits (at least 100 directly relating to the individual’s practice) during the 3 years prior to recertification application, accreditation of laboratory, demonstration of good standing on a medical staff (when appropriate), a comprehensive reference from the head of the department (or section), and when needed a secure examination is given.

 

Upon successful completion, the applicant receives a certification of recertification as a diplomate of the ABP dated January 1 of the year following completion of the process and effective for ten years. 

 

Please note that soon the Voluntary Recertification program will no longer be available. Applications will be accepted only through July 1, 2013. After that date, individuals who wish to recertify or who are required to pass a secure examination for licensure purposes can do so only through the MOC program (see ABP website for details). 

 

If you are interested in Voluntary Recertification, I recommend you check out the details at the ABP website. Please feel free to contact me as well.

 

David F. Keren M.D.

Warde Medical Laboratory

300 W. Textile Road

Ann Arbor, MI 48108

 

734 214-0300