MOC Program frequently asked questions

General Questions

  1. With everything happening — conference/event cancellations, closures, increased workload, etc. — I can’t imagine that I will have time to complete my MOC requirements. Will the Royal College be doing anything to help? 

    Our primary aim is to support our Fellows and MOC Program participants during these challenging times. In recognition of this unprecedented situation, and in alignment with our partners at the College of Family Physicians of Canada, the Royal College waived all Maintenance of Certification (MOC) Program requirements for 2020:

    • We waived the traditional 40-credit minimum requirement for 2020.
    • One year was added to everyone’s cycle.
    • While no credits are required to be submitted for 2020, any credits submitted will still be counted towards your current (now six-year) cycle. 
  2. Could this one-year MOC extension for 2020 affect my license to practice?

    The Royal College coordinated its decision to extend members’ MOC cycles by one year in discussion and alignment with the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the provincial regulators. All are in alignment and support this decision, given these unique circumstances. EXCEPTION: A two-month grace was provided up to Feb. 28, 2021, for Quebec licensed physicians to accrue further MOC hours to meet the CMQ MOC requirements for 2020.

  3. I appreciate the MOC extension, but I anticipate that I may still struggle to complete the program requirements into 2022. Will any extra support be offered?

    As always, our primary aim is to support our Fellows and MOC Program participants. We will continue to support our members with options for continuing professional development (CPD) activities, including online offerings for individuals seeking more flexible or cost-effective options. Our Royal College Services Centre staff members also remain available to assist with your CPD- and MOC-related questions, and unique situations. For assistance, please contact cpd@royalcollege.ca.

  4. Given my specialty area, the COVID-19 situation has unexpectedly given me more time to catch up on my learning and log MOC credits. How can I acknowledge this learning if credit requirements are being waived for 2020?

    Fellows and MOC Program participants can still submit MOC learning credits for 2020; we are just waiving the requirement to do so. Rest assured that this learning will not be discounted. We encourage you to continue to document your learning in the various program sections. These credits will be counted towards your MOC cycle.

  5. Why can’t I download my Certificate of Completion? 

    Your Certificate of Completion is only available for download after the January 31st deadline and only if you have successfully completed your MOC cycle requirements. If your MOC cycle was closed before the end of the cycle, a Certificate of Completion will not be available. If you need to provide proof of MOC participation, you may refer to an alternate report.

  6. I uploaded my supporting documentation for my CPD activity a while back. The activity was not validated and remains in my Holding Area. Why?

    If the supporting documentation was deemed to be insufficient or incorrect, you should have been sent an email notifying you that further documentation was required. Please email validation@royalcollege.ca for further information.

  7. I attended an educational dinner event hosted by a pharmaceutical company. Where can I record these hours?

    These hours cannot be claimed for credit within the MOC Program. However, this event may encourage you to continue your learning and develop a personal learning project (see PLP question).

  8. Can I claim my Residency training which occurred prior to registering as a Fellow/Member of the Royal College?

    No. If you are registered in a primary specialty residency training and are not yet certified by the Royal College, we invite you to register for free in the MOC Program for Resident Affiliates. This will allow you to start familiarizing yourself with the MOC Program and get a head start in accruing up to 25 credits per section that can be transferred over to your first MOC cycle once in practice. NOTE: To be eligible for the Resident Affiliate credit transfer you must register to a Fellow MOC Cycle within 2 years of obtaining your certification.

  9. Can I apply extra credits (>400) earned in my current cycle towards my next cycle?

    There is currently no provision to carry forward completed credits to a future MOC cycle and the completion of 400 credits is a minimum 5-year cycle requirement. MOC Program participants who achieve 400 credits before the end of their cycle are still required to complete at least 40 credits in each of the remaining years of their current cycle.

  10. I work part-time. Do I need to complete the same number of credits as someone who is in full-time practice?

    MOC Program participants who are in part-time practice are required to maintain their knowledge, skills, and competencies. There is a wide range of learning activities included within the MOC Program and the 400-credit requirement for a 5-year MOC cycle has been deemed to be reasonable and achievable for all participants.

  11. What type of documentation do I need to keep for validation purposes and how long do I need to keep it for?

    MOC program participants should keep their supporting documentation for the duration of their current cycle. However, you may also wish to verify with your provincial regulatory body to confirm their specific requirements. At this time, only the following activities may require supporting documentation for validation purposes:

    • Section 1: Group Learning (a certificate of attendance or certificate of completion from the sponsoring organization)
    • Section 2: Formal Courses, Traineeships, and Fellowships (a certificate of completion of the course from the sponsoring organization) 
    • Section 2: Bulk online reading/scanning with transcript (a certificate from the third-party organization and the activity/usage log which describes the topics that were searched, dates and credits that were allocated)
    • Section 2: Bulk journal reading with transcript (a copy of the completed Royal College Bulk Journal Reading form or a similar form from the third-party organization). The form must list the title of each article read, the learning outcomes for each and the date read).
    • Section 3: Accredited Self-Assessment Programs (a certificate of completion of the accredited self-assessment program by the sponsoring organization)
    • Section 3: Accredited Simulation Activities (confirmation of participation by the accredited simulation program or CPD provider organization).
  12. What should I do if I cannot provide supporting documentation for a learning activity?

    If your CPD activity is pending credit validation and you cannot provide the required supporting documentation, then the activity cannot be validated and the credits will not be applied to your MAINPORT ePortfolio credit summary.

    Alternatively, if you participated in this activity to address a professional practice question, you may report the relevant period attended related to your question, along with any further research completed prior/after the event as a Section 2: Planned Learning: Personal Learning Project.

  13. How can I submit my last year’s CPD activities if I’ve missed the January 31st deadline?

    You may report past CPD activities if they are still within your current MOC cycle. Some CPD activities may require submission of supporting documentation for validation purposes before the credits are applied. For specific questions, please contact the Royal College Services Centre at 1-800-461-9598, 613-730-6243 or by email at cpd@royalcollege.ca.

  14. What is the Holding Area?

    The Holding Area is an area of MAINPORT ePortfolio that contains activities that require some additional information before they are counted in the MOC credit system. There are three different types of activities that can exist in the Holding Area: 

    • Incomplete Activities
    • Uploaded Activities Requiring Additional Information
    • CPD Activities Awaiting Credit Validation

    Incomplete Activities:

    Activities in this section are incomplete or not fully submitted. Please review and ensure that all the mandatory fields are completed. 

    • Scroll down to the bottom of the activity template, select ‘Save and Continue’
    • On the next screen, select Save and Submit. 

    If you are not ready to submit your activity, you may come back at a later date and submit it before the end of your cycle. 

    Uploaded Activities Requiring Additional Information:

    Activities in this section could be one of the following:

    • An Activity submitted on your behalf (i.e. when an event administrator has uploaded your attendance hours on your behalf) 
    • An Activity submitted through the Mobile app and it was not fully submitted due to a Wi-Fi connectivity problem or due to using an outdated version of the app. 

    To complete the activity, 

    • Open your activity template by selecting the Activity title or the Action ‘Describe Outcomes’ and complete all mandatory fields, then select ‘Save and Continue’.
    • On the next screen, select ‘Save and Submit’.

    CPD Activities Awaiting Credit Validation:

    Activities in this section require the submission of supporting documentation for credit validation purposes. 

    • Open your activity template by selecting the Activity title and ensure that all the mandatory fields are completed. 
    • Select ‘Save and Continue’ at the bottom of the template.
    • On the next screen select ‘Save and Submit’. 

    On the Supporting Documents screen, select ‘Add Files’ to upload your supporting documentation or select the check box to confirm that you will send it by email, mail or fax, then select 'Save and Submit'.

  15. What web browser can I use to access the MAINPORT ePortfolio?

    The desktop version of the MAINPORT ePortfolio is compatible with the following browsers:

    • MS Edge
    • Firefox version 107
    • Chrome version 108
    • Safari version 16.1

    NOTE: For the best MAINPORT ePortfolio user experience, we recommend that iPad users connect directly to MAINPORT ePortfolio rather than using the mobile app.

  16. Is there a mobile app version of MAINPORT ePortfolio available?

    Yes,  you can download the MAINPORT ePortfolio mobile app from the App Store for iPhone users and the Play Store for Android users.

  17. Can I record activities when not connected to the Internet?

    Yes, you can record activities when you are offline. Simply record the information as you normally would. As soon as you connect to a WiFi network, your MAINPORT ePortfolio account will be automatically updated.

  18. Why am I having problems downloading the MAINPORT ePortfolio app to my iPhone?

    Please note that if you do not have the latest version of iOS installed on your Apple device, you will need to update it to the latest version first. 

  19. Why is my password not recognized on the MAINPORT ePortfolio app?

    Look in your mobile app store if a new update for the MAINPORT ePortfolio app is available. If you do not have the most updated version, it could prevent you from logging in. 

  20. How are the CanMEDS Roles being promoted as a framework for lifelong learning in MAINPORT ePortfolio?

    MAINPORT ePortfolio will support the link between learning and CanMEDS in two ways. 

    1. Each template will enable learners to link the portion of the group learning, self-learning or assessment activity that was linked to each CanMEDS Role. 
    2. The CPD planning tool in MAINPORT will support the link between specific goals and one or more CanMEDS Roles.

    The MOC framework is intending to promote a competency-based approach to lifelong learning that is not just focused on knowledge (the traditional domain of the medical expert), but on multiple skills, competencies and abilities. CanMEDS is an excellent example of a competency framework that is relevant to the planning and development of learning activities for practice. Currently, all accredited CPD provider organizations are required to develop needs assessment strategies that span multiple CanMEDS Roles. Self-learning can be focused in any CanMEDS domain and although there are limited tools to assess performance across multiple CanMEDS roles the development of 360° assessments and other multi-source feedback strategies are becoming more common.

  21. What is an MOC cycle type?

    Your MOC cycle type indicates what type of participation you have in the MOC Program. 

    • Mandatory cycles are for individuals who are required to participate, such as: 
    • Fellows in order to maintain their Fellowship (five-year cycle),
    • Other Health care professionals who have registered to participate in the MOC Program (five-year cycle), and 
    • Pursuants of the Practice Ready Assessment (PRA) route to certification (one-year cycle). 
    • Voluntary cycles are for individuals who choose to participate even though they are not required to, such as: 
    • Retired Fellows, five-year cycle with no credit requirements), 
    • Resident Affiliates (seven-year cycle or up to first certification) who choose to participate and can then carry forward 75 credits (up to 25 from each MOC section) towards their first MOC cycle as a Fellow, and
    • International Fellows who have informed our office of their participation in a substantively equivalent international program.
  22. What are the MOC Cycle requirements of a mandatory cycle?

    • If participating in a five-year MOC cycle, you must complete:
      • a minimum of 40 credits per year a minimum of 400 credits over a 5-year cycle, and
      • a minimum of 25 credits per MOC section over a 5-yearper cycle, to be compliant with the MOC Program
    • If participating in a 1-year MOC cycle, you must complete:
      • a minimum of 80 credits 
      • a portion of these credits must be applied to at least two of the three CPD sections (a maximum of 60 credits can be applied to any one section)
      • proof of participation for all Section 1: Group Learning activities

Section 1

  1. How do I know if a conference held in Canada qualifies for Section 1 of the MOC Program?

    In Canada, conferences, courses, workshops and seminars must be approved by an accredited CPD provider. Section 1 approval will be recognized by the following statement on program materials: “This event is an Accredited Group Learning Activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification program of The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and approved by [accredited provider’s name].” (Please refer to the next question regarding the exception.)

  2. How do I know if a group learning activity is accredited?

    Group learning activities (All face-to-face conferences or courses, and all synchronous online conferences or courses [such as live webcasts and live webinars that allow participants to ask questions to the faculty], rounds, journal clubs or small-group activities) are accredited if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

    • Are held in Canada and have been approved for accreditation under Royal College CPD accreditation standards
    • Are held in Canada but developed by Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME)-accredited physician organizations (university, academy, specialty society, hospital department etc.)
    • Are held live (in-person or online) outside of Canada and are developed by a university, academy, college, academic institution or physician organization
    • Are recognized as eligible through inclusion under an established international CPD/MOC recognition agreement
    • Are held in Canada and have been approved for accreditation under a system administered by a Canadian medical regulatory authority (MRA) which follows accreditation standards that are substantively equivalent to those of the Royal College.
  3. Where can I report my attendance at an online group learning activity (conference/workshop/course) developed outside of Canada or overseas?

    All face-to-face conferences or courses, and all synchronous online conferences or courses (such as live webcasts and live webinars that allow participants to ask questions to the faculty), held outside of Canada can be reported as accredited group learning activities under Section 1 of the MOC Program if they are developed by a university, academy, college, academic institution or physician organization or are eligible under a CPD/MOC recognition agreement.

    Asynchronous online group learning programs (e.g., pre-recorded presentations), do not automatically qualify for Section 1 credits in the MOC Program; they must be reviewed and approved directly by a Royal College Accredited CPD Provider and if approved, would contain the Royal College accreditation statement. Learn more about international CPD activities and credit agreements.

  4. Where can I report my attendance at a conference held outside of Canada or a conference held overseas?

    All live conferences or live courses (all synchronous online conferences or courses [such as live webcasts and live webinars that allow participants to ask questions to the faculty]) held outside of Canada can be reported as accredited group learning activities under Section 1 of the MOC Program if they are developed by a university, academy, college, academic institution, or physician organization or are eligible under a CPD/MOC recognition agreement. Learn more about international CPD activities and credit agreements.

  5. Can working or clinical rounds be self-approved for MOC Section 1 credits?

    No. In order for rounds, journal clubs or small group learning activities to be self-approved for MOC Section 1 credits, they must meet the accreditation standards as defined by the Royal College. These standards include the establishment of a planning committee, the development of learning objectives based on a needs assessment conducted for the target audience, adherence to established ethical standards and the execution of an evaluation strategy of the rounds program. Typically, “working” or “clinical” rounds are not formal CPD activities, rather, they are bedside visits by a physician—or other health professional—to evaluate treatment, assess current course and document the patient’s progress or recuperation.

  6. Why do I report my morbidity and mortality (M&M) rounds as a Section 1 Group Learning activity vs a Section 3 Assessment activity?

    Morbidity and mortality (M&M) rounds cannot be accredited for MOC Section 3 credits because they typically review one patient/physician at a time. This is not considered feedback on performance in practice. A formal audit and feedback on a minimum of 10 patients is needed to be representative of one’s performance in practice. Morbidity and Mortality rounds are group-learning activities that can be included under Section 1: Group Learning: Rounds, assuming that they have been approved through the self-accreditation process of the Royal College.

  7. How do I enter my yearly hours for rounds in MAINPORT ePortfolio?

    You can enter your yearly attendance at rounds either individually or as a “block” of hours. For example, if you attended 20 hours of rounds during the year, you may choose to record each round you attended separately or record it as one entry worth 20 credits in Section 1.

  8. I attended a 3-day conference. Do I need to report each day separately or can I record my overall attendance as one entry?

    You may record your conference attendance as one entry and report the total hours attended. Please record the end date of the conference in MAINPORT ePortfolio.

  9. How do I know if my hospital round or journal club is accredited? Where and when can I get a record of attendance for these activities?

    Rounds and journal clubs that are accredited will provide a Royal College accreditation statement on the advertisement for the event. You may also contact your Rounds Chair for further information and for an official record of attendance.

Section 2

  1. I’m confused about the Section 2 bulk journal reading and/or online scanning options. How/when do I use them?

    The bulk options are similar to the “Reading an article” or “Internet searching” options. They allow you to bulk-report your journal reading and internet searches for a selected period of time (i.e.: weeks, months or a full year) as one entry instead of submitting them as separate, individual entries. The bulk journal reading option requires you to upload a list of all the articles you read, dates you read them and the impact to your practice following each one. You will receive one credit per article read. Similarly, the “bulk online reading/scanning” option requires you to upload the transcript you received from the third-party organization that tracked your searches (i.e. UpToDate, OrthoEvidence, StatDX, Medscape Tracker, etc.) You will receive 0.5 credit per topic reviewed, or up to a maximum of 3 credits as awarded by the third-party organization.

    NOTE: Both the certificate and transcript/list must be provided in order for these activities to be applied to your MOC Program cycle.

  2. Where do I record my post-grad Fellowship or my second residency training?

    Fellowships or Residency training can be entered as Section 2: Planned Learning: Fellowship. Usually, a Fellowship is deemed equivalent to 4 courses per year, so you can claim a Fellowship in 25 credit segments (3 month increments), up to a maximum of 100 credits per year of Fellowship. Note: If a portion of the Fellowship or Residency training occurred prior to your MOC cycle start date, you can earn credits for the portion completed after the start date of your MOC cycle only. 

  3. What is a personal learning project (PLP) and how can I incorporate this into my learning plan?

    A personal learning project (PLP) is a self-initiated learning activity that is stimulated by a question, issue or dilemma in your professional practice. For example, PLPs can be created based on updating your knowledge to prepare a presentation, further research after reading a journal article or after participating in a point-of-care activity. They can be inspired by any aspect of your professional practice (CanMEDS Roles) and are flexible and adaptable within any learning context.

  4. What is a traineeship and can you provide some examples of activities that would fit in this section?

    Traineeships are structured learning activities designed to meet an identified professional need. Traineeships require the identification of learning objectives and a supervisor who will help you to plan learning activities that meet your learning objectives. The supervisor is also responsible for verifying that activities have been completed and can provide meaningful feedback on what was achieved. The final step required for all traineeships is the documentation of the learning outcomes that were identified for practice. Participation in activities such as PALS, NALS, ATLS, ACLS, and BLS, to name a few, are considered traineeships.

  5. Why are there different sub-types for personal learning project (PLP) under Section 2: Self-Learning Activities?

    When reporting a PLP in MAINPORT ePortfolio, you must select a sub-type (from a drop-down menu) to clarify the reason behind the creation of your learning plan. This allows us to capture data about how you are using PLPs, which will in turn support future improvements to the MOC framework. The following sub-types are available within MAINPORT ePortfolio (each is eligible for 2 credits/hour):

    • Address clinical or academic questions
    • Preparation for formal teaching activities
    • Development of research activities
    • Address medical-professional administrative or systems related questions/issues
    • Other—Please describe the type of PLP
  6. How can I get credits for reading journal articles, books, etc.?

    Each journal article you read that you feel had an impact on your learning or practice can be recorded in Section 2: Self-Learning: Reading (each as an individual entry) or as Bulk Reading with Transcript (using a Royal College or third-party form). 

    Alternatively, you may read journal articles and/or books with the specific objective of answering a question, issue, or problem you have identified in your professional practice. In this instance, this can be claimed in Section 2 as a personal learning project (PLP) for 2 credits per hour.

  7. Can I claim MOC credits for teaching or giving presentations?

    The MOC Program does not provide credits for the actual teaching or presenting, however, you may report the new learning acquired while preparing or researching for your teaching sessions or presentations under Section 2 as a personal learning project (PLP).

  8. I participate as an examiner for the Royal College. How can I claim credits for my contributions?

    There are several options available for you to receive MOC credits:

    • The time you spend participating in any part of the examination process – from setting the exam standards, to being an examiner can be claimed as an activity for 15 credits per year under Section 2: Systems Learning: Examination Development.
    • The time you spend in the development and submission of a clinical scenario for inclusion in an oral examination or an MCQ or SAQ for a written examination can be submitted as a personal learning project in Section 2.
    • The time you spend on reviewing the feedback on your contributions to the examination process (e.g., the quality of your MCQs) or your performance during the examination (e.g., during an oral examination) is a review of your “educational” practice that could be included under Section 3: Practice Assessment (3 credits per hour).
  9. How can I get credits for participating in committees?

    For participating in certain committees, you may claim 15 credits per year per committee. The purpose or activity of the committee (working group, task force or similar title) must be to improve or enhance the quality, safety, or effectiveness of the health care system. The committee must have a formal structure with an appointment process and defined terms of reference. It must also meet on a regular schedule.

  10. How can I get credits for all the research done for grant applications?

    Any research and learning you do in relation to grant applications may be recorded as personal learning projects (PLPs) in Section 2: Planned Learning: Personal learning Project.

  11. Where can I report my participation in doing peer reviewing of journals and/or grant applications?

    Participants who are actively engaged in the peer review process throughout the year for activities such as peer reviewing journal articles and reviewing research grant applications can submit this activity in Section 2: Systems Learning: Peer Review for 15 credits per year.

    Feedback received back from your assessment can also be claimed under Section 3: Practice Assessment for 3 credits per hour.

  12. Where can I record the time I spent reviewing a colleague’s practice?

    You may record reviews that you do of your colleague’s practice under Section 2: Systems Learning: Peer Review and you will receive 15 credits for the year.

  13. Can I record my own reading activities in bulk?

    Yes. The Royal College is happy to provide a Bulk Journal Reading Transcript form  (This is an Adobe PDF fillable form. To use it, you will need to open it in Adobe Reader software, which can be obtained on Adobe’s website free of charge. Please save the blank form to your desktop before you fill it out, then resave it before you submit). 

    Alternatively, you can develop your own bulk reading template (as long as you capture the date read, the title of the article and your outcome on practice). 

    Each time you read a journal article, simply jot down the required information on the form (this must include a learning outcome for each article). When you’re ready to report all your reading activities to MAINPORT ePortfolio, scan the form onto your computer or mobile device to create an electronic copy. Next,

    • Click on “Enter a CPD Activity”
    • Select Section 2: Self-Learning Activities
    • Choose “Bulk Journal Reading with Transcript” from the dropdown menu
    • Enter information for all required fields marked with red asterisks
    • Upload the scanned “Bulk Journal Reading Transcript”
  14. I completed a day course and submitted this under Section 2: Formal Course. MAINPORT ePortfolio automatically gives me 25 credits for this – how can I change the number of credits?

    Formal courses are usually developed in collaboration with a university, community college, specialty (e.g., a diploma program) or other educational organizations. They require a formal registration process and provide a transcript or certificate of completion. This type of course can lead to the achievement of a formal designation or certificate. Formal Courses occur over a period of time usually equivalent to one term at a university but not less than 6 weeks. Examples of Formal Courses: Fellowships include participation in formal certificate programs, Masters or PhD programs. 

    Other courses that are shorter in duration are more typical of a Section 1 accredited group learning activity where you would receive one credit per hour of participation.

Section 3

  1. Can I access self-assessment programs through the MAINPORT Mobile app?

    Yes. However, if you wish to search or shop for self-assessment programs (SAPs) in our SAP database, we recommend using the desktop version of MAINPORT ePortfolio for optimal experience.

  2. Where can I record the time I spent reviewing feedback that I received from colleagues/others related to my practice?

    If a colleague reviews your practice and provides feedback, the time spent in preparation for this activity, including any additional time you spent reviewing and reflecting on the feedback received, can be recorded under Section 3: Assessment: Practice Assessment and you will receive 3 credits per hour.

  3. Where can I record the time I spent reviewing feedback from my presentations or teaching sessions?

    Formal or informal feedback received from your presentations or teaching sessions can be reported in Section 3: Assessment: Feedback on Teaching. You may calculate the time spent receiving, reviewing and reflecting as part of your activity submission and you will receive 3 credits per hour.

  4. Where can I record an online self-assessment program (SAP)?

    Online self-assessment programs (SAP) do not automatically qualify for Section 3 credits in the MOC Program. All online SAPs must be reviewed and approved directly by a Royal College Accredited CPD Provider and if approved, would contain the Royal College accreditation statement. 

  5. I participated in a self-assessment program (SAP) not listed in MAINPORT ePortfolio. Where do I record this activity?

    If an SAP is not listed in MAINPORT ePortfolio and you have confirmation that it is accredited for  Section 3 of the MOC Program, please contact us at: cpd-accreditation@royalcollege.ca to confirm its status.  However, if the program is not accredited, you may choose to claim this activity as a Section 2: Personal learning project .

  6. What is an Accredited Self-Assessment program?

    Accredited Self-Assessment programs use brief, highly directed questions in structured formats, such as multiple-choice or short-answer questions, to elicit reliable constructed responses from participants to assess aspects of knowledge in defined domains. Feedback provides opportunities for participants to identify areas for improvement and future learning.

  7. What is an Accredited Simulation Activity?

    Accredited simulation activities use standardized patients, mannequins, part-task trainers or virtual cases to assess individual physicians or teams performing specific actions, tasks or behaviours related to a clinical scenario. Simulations may be high- or low-fidelity, depending on the techniques or strategies used. Feedback is commonly provided by observers during debriefing sessions after the scenario is completed.

  8. What is Chart Audit and Feedback?

    Chart audit and feedback is an assessment strategy that uses data recorded in a chart or electronic health record to assess the performance of an individual, group or team against one or more measures of performance. Chart audits can focus on process or outcomes of care provided to one or more patients. Feedback is provided to facilitate the identification of areas for future learning and improvement.

  9. What is Multi-Source Feedback?

    Multi-source feedback uses standardized questionnaires to gather data from multiple observers across a range of CanMEDS Roles. Physicians are provided with a summary of their performance across a set of behaviours in relation to their peers. Feedback provides an opportunity to identify areas of strength and improvement and set goals for future learning.

  10. What is Direct Observation?

    Direct observation uses supervisors, colleagues or peers to observe a physician performing a regular professional activity to identify whether specific behaviours or competences were demonstrated. The observer provides feedback to the physician on what was, or was not, observed in order to assist the physician in identifying areas for improvement or enhancement.

  11. What is Feedback on Teaching?

    Summaries or compilations of evaluations of teaching completed by students, residents, physicians or health professionals provide physician educators evidence related to the effectiveness and impact of teaching. Reviewing these evaluations provides opportunities to identify areas for improvement within this dimension of professional practice.

  12. What is an Annual Performance Review?

    Annual reviews provide physicians with an opportunity to reflect on past performance goals and establish plans for the coming year. Use the feedback provided by peers, department/division chairs or chiefs of staff to set new goals or identify strategies for improvement or professional development.

  13. What is Practice Assessment?

    Practice assessment is a comprehensive approach to reviewing a physicians’ practice to assess adherence to established professional practice standards across multiple CanMEDS Roles using multiple assessment strategies. Practice assessments are completed by trained peer assessors and may integrate a records review, interviews with colleagues or co-workers, direct observations of interactions with patients, and patient questionnaires to enable the development of a comprehensive report of the overall quality and safety of the practice with recommendations that serve as the basis for future learning and improvement.

AMA Credits

  1. Does the Royal College recognize American Medical Association (AMA) credits?

    No, the Royal College does not recognize or have equivalency for AMA PRA credits. However, your activity may still be eligible for MOC credits if it meets certain criteria as outlined in the questions below.

  2. I participated in an online group learning course approved for AMA PRA Category 1 credits. Are these credits approved for MOC Section 1?

    Synchronous online conferences or courses (such as live webcasts and live webinars that allow participants to ask questions to the faculty), AND that have been developed by a university, academy, college, academic institution, or physician organization, are recognized as MOC Program Section 1 accredited group learning credits.

    Asynchronous online group learning programs (e.g., pre-recorded presentations), do not automatically qualify for Section 1 credits in the MOC Program; they must be reviewed and approved directly by a Royal College Accredited CPD Provider and if approved, would contain the Royal College accreditation statement. Learn more about international CPD activities and credit agreements.

  3. I participated in a group learning activity held in Canada/ live online (i.e., interactive) approved for AMA PRA Category 1 credits. Are these credits approved for MOC Section 1?

    If you have participated in a live group learning activity (a synchronous online conference or course [such as live webcasts and live webinars that allow participants to ask questions to the faculty]), AND that was developed by Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME)-accredited physician organizations (university, academy, specialty society, hospital department etc.) within Canada, the Royal College will recognize the number of hours that learners participate as MOC Program Section 1 accredited group learning credits.

    CMQ: Accredited MOC Section 1 activities transfer to CMQ Recognized Section A.

ACCME Accredited Assessment Activities

  1. Where can I record assessment activities (i.e., self-assessment programs – SAPs) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME)?

    Assessment activities (i.e., self-assessment programs – SAPs) accredited by the ACCME (under the “CME in Support of MOC” program) can be claimed under MOC Section 3: Accredited self-assessment programs. Use the SAP Database in MAINPORT and/or the CME Finder to determine whether an ACCME/AMA PRA SAP is eligible for MOC credit. 

    Select assessment activities developed and accredited by The American College of Surgeons (ACS) completed after November 1, 2020 can be claimed under MOC Section 3: Accredited self-assessment programs.

    Select assessment activities developed and accredited by The American College of Radiology (ACR) completed after March 1, 2021, can be claimed under MOC Section 3: Accredited self-assessment programs.

    Use the SAP Database in MAINPORT to determine whether an ACS assessment activity is eligible for MOC credit.

    Learn more about international CPD activities and credit agreements.

    CMQ: MOC Section 3 activities transfer to CMQ Recognized Section B.

    Other ACCME/AMA PRA approved activities, aka enduring material (printed, recorded, or computer-presented activity that endures over a specified time and does not have a specific time or location designated for participation) or self-learning material, not found in the SAP Database in MAINPORT can be claimed under MOC Section 2: Bulk online reading/scanning with transcript for the number of credits indicated on the transcript or certificate.

    CMQ: MOC Section 2 Bulk online reading/scanning activities transfer to CMQ Recognized Section A.

Contact us

cpd@royalcollege.ca

Royal College Services Centre 1-800-461-9598 or 613-730-6243 For inquiries related to MAINPORT ePortfolio, please contact cpd@royalcollege.ca.