Fostering Learning and Change: Implementing New Standards for Continuing Certification

ABMS implemented new standards for Continuing Certification in January 2024. In anticipation, 3C created a learning community focusing on (a) education about the standards, (b) development of performance measures/metrics to assess adherence, (c) iterative discussions with stakeholders, (d) interactive sessions to assist member boards in submitting information and data, and (e) engagement with ABMS about barriers to implementation.

This approach led to a phased-in process to prepare member boards to meet the new standards and measure their performance. Initially, 3C asked member boards to complete a readiness self-assessment to describe the current state of their continuing certification programs. 3C then transitioned from a self-assessment to a peer-review process involving ABMS staff, all 3C members, and member board staff.

In this session, we will describe the metrics development process designed to oversee large system changes across the Member Board community, using a learning community model to enable a broad understanding among 3C members and individual member boards. We will engage the audience in a metrics review exercise similar to what was asked of 3C members, to enhance their understanding of the peer review process and how it furthered the learning community through education, interactive sessions, dialogue about barriers, and personalized feedback. Additionally, the audience will see how the process resulted in continued progress towards all member boards meeting the standards.