*NOTE: The literature review module/alternative lifelong learning activity is no longer required as of 2020. Please reach out to MOC@abmgg.org to receive a waiver for this activity while we work to remove it from the Portal. Article-based questions are now incorporated in the CertLink Longitudinal Assessment platform.

The Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment component of the Continuing Certification program consists of two activities:

1) Patient Safety

Diplomates are required to complete one Patient Safety activity during each 3-year cycle.

Options include:

ACMG Patient Safety Module: Provided in the ACMG Genetics Academy, the patient safety module consists of an informational slideshow concluded with a quiz. Diplomates must receive a passing score of 80% or higher with unlimited attempts.

Upload documentation of completion by clicking the “Patient Safety” button on your dashboard.

Alternative Patient Safety Activities

In order to receive credit for patient safety activities completed elsewhere, diplomates must submit a transcript or documentation provided by their institution reflecting a year’s worth of completed patient safety activities. Other safety activities may be accepted after ABMGG approval.


2) Continuing Medical Education Credits (CMEs)

Diplomates must demonstrate their involvement in continuing education by documenting at least 60 continuing education credits, with at least half in genetics, over the 3-year cycle.

Continuing education activities must be provided by organizations that are accredited to offer AMA PRA Category 1 (or the equivalent) credits.

Click the “CME” button on the dashboard to upload documentation of all continuing education credits.

Ways to Attain CMEs:

There are many ways to attain CMEs. Some options include:

  • Receive credit for completing the Patient Safety module in the ACMG Genetics Academy
  • Earn up to 10 CMEs at year (5 CMEs per segment) for completing the CertLink Longitudinal Assessment through the ACMG Genetics Academy (instructions are sent at the end of each segment, you may email MOC@abmgg.org or education@acmg.net at any time for assistance)
  • Attend CME-granting live activities (i.e. annual meetings such as the ACMG and ASHG)
  • Use the direct credit application to claim AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ for the following activities if they were accomplished in the last 6 years:
    • Teaching at a live AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ activity
    • Publishing article(s)
    • Preparing poster presentation(s)
    • Finishing a medically related advanced degree
    • Achieving American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) member board certification and participating in other member board’s Continuing Certification programs
    • Participating successfully in an Accreditation Council for Medical Education (ACGME) accredited residency of fellowship program
  • For Laboratory Geneticists: P.A.C.E. credits are acceptable for this requirement if that is the only credit offered from an activity. (NOTE: Diplomates cannot claim P.A.C.E. and CME for the same activity.)
  • Explore the ABMS Continuing Certification Directory

Permitted Activities

In the United States, AMA PRA Category 1 Credit activities are those sponsored by an organization, typically a state regulatory agency or a professional society, that is specifically accredited by the ACCME. The foreign equivalent of Category 1 credits will be accepted if the activities conform to the definitions stated herein. Acceptable Category 1 activities may take a number of forms, though most are offered as live or attendance-based activities or enduring materials. Visit ACCME to find accredited providers or more information.

Impermissible Activities

ABMGG cannot accept Category 2 activities. Examples of Category 2 activities include: consultation with peers and experts, development and review of quality assessment data, use of electronic databases in patient care, small group discussions, self-assessment activities, journal club activities not designated Category 1, teaching of health professionals, medical writing (abstracts, journal articles, book chapters), and preceptorships.

NOTE: Should a diplomate have over 60 CMEs in one 3-year cycle, up to 10 credits may be carried over to the next cycle.