MOC Tip of the Month
Vinita Bindlish

Six ways community-based physicians can earn Section 3 MOC Program assessment credits

As an ear, nose and throat surgeon working in the community of Kitchener-Waterloo, Ont., I am very familiar with the “town and gown” quandary of the community-based physician: how do I fulfil my MOC Program requirement* for Section 3 assessment without the benefit of association in a large academic practice or hospital?

Consider these six tips for meeting this requirement:

1. Enrol in a self-assessment or simulation program: The Royal College lists self-assessment and simulation activities by specialty on its website. These activities and programs have all been approved by accredited providers and have a high likelihood of changing performance and improving patient outcomes.
2. Use your 360-degree performance review that is tied to your hospital privilege renewals: If you practice in a hospital, you likely have to complete an annual performance appraisal with your department chief or medical director as part of your reappointment process. Take this data and feedback you receive and turn it into a MOC Program opportunity (Annual Performance Review).
3. Turn your provincial regulatory body’s peer assessment into a golden opportunity: The next time your regulatory body announces that you’ve been selected for a peer assessment, don’t feel anxious! This is a wonderful chance to participate in an activity that is eligible for Section 3 credits and get some helpful guidance along the way. According to my regulatory body’s website (the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario), “each year, most physicians are found to be practicing in a satisfactory manner and receive useful feedback from their assessor, a practicing colleague.”
4. Make the performance metrics provided by your hospital or regional health authority count: My hospital evaluates the adherence of its surgeons to hand hygiene guidelines, their use of surgical checklists and operating time used-versus-booked.  Make this data count by comparing your performance to group averages, reflecting on how you could close any gaps, and getting feedback from your hospital administration.
5. Chart audits with feedback: This is an excellent option for those who are not in academic or hospital practice. Read this MOC Tip of the Month on how to conduct a chart audit written by my CPD Educator colleague, Dr. Suzan Schneeweiss, FRCPC.
6. Online learning opportunities: Web-based learning opportunities are another great option for community physicians. As long as you have a computer, you can take advantage. For example, try an eLearning module from the Canadian Medical Protective Association.

 If your cycle started on or after January 1, 2014, you will need to document 25 credits before your cycle ends.

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