This information is being offered to assist members with answers to many of your questions about CME and certification or recertification.
American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics (AOAO)
The Academy is a CME Sponsor of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA).
American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
The AOA establishes the requirements and sets parameters for CME to osteopathic physicians. As the primary certifying body for DOs, the AOA oversees the AOBOS and other certifying boards.
AOA Website
American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery (AOBOS)
The AOBOS handles the certification of orthopedic surgeons and sets the requirements for Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC). The AOBOS also administers subspecialty certification exams for Hand and Sports medicine.
AOBOS Website
CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION
Does the AOAO submit my credits to the AOA after I attend a meeting?
Yes, after AOAO meeting participants complete and submit their CME Form the credits are uploaded to the AOA site directly. The AOA will NOT accept CME credits from an AOAO meeting directly from a meeting participant. Credits are uploaded usually around 90 days after the meeting.
Who do I contact to see how many CME credits I need for this CME cycle and how many are required?
The AOA sets the CME cycle and number/type of credits required. To see your total CME credits claimed you must log into the AOA. Physician Portal or contact the board directly at [email protected].
MEETING ATTENDANCE CYCLE
Why do I need to attend AOAO meetings?
To remain a member in good standing, AOAO Bylaws require active members to attend one spring and one fall meeting every 3 years. Military members are required to attend one spring OR one fall meeting every 3 years.
How do I know when I have to attend the next spring and/or fall meeting?
The three-year attendance cycle starts the first year after training is complete and a member becomes active. Members may choose to attend every year, or two years in a row. The three-year cycle begins with the last meeting attended.
For example, if you attended the 2023 Spring Meeting, your next time to attend will be in 2026.
Members may check meeting attendance by logging in HERE.
Can I substitute attendance at a spring meeting for the fall of the year I am due?
To comply with bylaws, substitution is not possible. Members who are unable to attend a spring or fall meeting of the year they are due may request an extension in writing to the AOAO administrative office. If approved, the member is required to attend the following year to remain a member in good standing.
BOARD CERTIFICATION and OSTEOPATHIC CONTINUOUS CERTIFICATION
Can the AOAO tell me when I am due for recertification?
No, the AOAO is not the certifying board. All questions related to longitudinal assessment and Osteopathic Continuous Certification must be directed to the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery. You can find your current certification expiration date on the Physician Portal.
Contact the AOBOS at [email protected] or 312-202-8208.
How do I sign up to be an examiner?
Contact Jennifer Greene, the AOBOS Director, at [email protected].
Do you have a question not answered here? Contact us at [email protected].