The agreement between the two organizations delineates their roles in the internal medicine recertification process, a program of continuous professional development (CPD). The agreement was approved by the ABIM Board of Directors on Oct. 8, 2002, and by the ACP-ASIM Board of Regents on Oct. 27, 2002.

The two organizations agreed to establish a liaison committee, composed of representatives of ABIM, ACP-ASIM, and internal medicine subspecialty organizations, that will advise ABIM's Committee on Recertification on recommendations and proposals for new components and potential new pathways for recertification. The liaison committee is charged with preserving the separation of education and evaluation responsibilities between the two organizations.

The agreement stipulates greater flexibility for diplomates by phasing in new components of the program, accepting some of ACP-ASIM's existing Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program questions as part of the CPD program, and developing a computer-based examination so candidates will not have to travel to distant centers for the examination.

"Reaching agreement on a process to enhance recertification is a great advance for our organizations and for the profession," said Douglas P. Zipes, MD, chair of the ABIM Board of Directors.

"ACP-ASIM and ABIM share the goal of fostering the highest standards of excellence and professionalism in the practice of internal medicine," said Sara E. Walker, MD, president of ACP-ASIM. "We are pleased to work with ABIM to help make the recertification process relevant and efficient for internists."

"The agreement reinforces our commitment to lifelong learning and the c
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Contact: Susan Anderson
sanderson@mail.acponline.org
215-351-2653
American College of Physicians
1-Nov-2002