Request for Suspension of MOC Requirements Due to COVID-19

MEMO TO: Richard J. Baron, MD President and CEO, ABIM Foundation

FROM: Heart Rhythm Society (HRS), Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA)

SUBJECT: Request for Suspension of MOC Requirements Due to COVID-19

Due to the complete disruption caused by COVID-19, we are writing today on behalf of a coalition of medical specialty society members to advocate for a suspension of all MOC requirements in 2020. This coalition includes the Heart Rhythm Society, Infectious Diseases Society of America and Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America.

Our physician members are working tirelessly and at great risk to their own health and safety to respond to this global crisis. Meeting MOC requirements, by necessity, has fallen to the bottom of priority lists. In addition, many educational meetings have been cancelled, reducing the opportunities to earn MOC points.

We are aware that ABIM already has cancelled spring assessments, and we support this decision. However, Part II requirements for Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment are still in place. Having medical specialty societies create supportive strategies to recognize learning opportunities does not mitigate the need for these front-line physicians to turn their attention to MOC requirements when their focus needs to be entirely on the care of patients, co-workers, and themselves.

We believe that the ABIM can and should suspend all 2020 MOC requirements, effective immediately. Your prompt consideration is very much appreciated.

cc: Jessica Johnson, CMP
Rachel Shnekendorf, MPH
Anne Marie Smith, MBA