To whom it may concern,

I’m writing in response to the email I received about MOC part 4 points increasing after ‘listening to us’. I am quite frankly surprised by this email, since many of us were hoping for the opposite of this outcome. How does increasing MOC 4 better or benefit us as pediatricians ? 

I am part of an extensive network of physicians, extending to thousands of pediatricians and I can tell you I have yet to hear ONE suggesting to add more MOC part 4 points. I understand that the point allocation increased and that theoretically there shouldn’t be ‘more work’ but there is. After looking through the available part 4 options I have noticed the simpler/shorter projects are not longer available, and not surprising that majority of the projects come at a fee, as if we don’t already pay enough for board certification. We practice evidence based medicine, I would like to see the evidence on how MOC part 4 benefits us as pediatricians at all? I have yet to hear of any physician claiming they changed how they practice after doing the recommended QI projects. Due to the lack of benefit in our professional lives, most pediatricians want to fully get rid of part 4. 

There has been increased discussion on the importance or more the lack there of, being certified specifically by the ABP. In private practice and many hospital based settings it’s not as important to keep up with specific ABP certification. Many of us have started and with these new requirements will push even further to be certified by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons. 

I further ask what has the ABP done for pediatricians lately, especially during the pandemic?  How is it pushing against mid level encroachment and decreased compensation? I do know the AANP/AAPA is pushing hard against physicians and have been doing an excellent job by providing NP/PAs increased independence and in turn our jobs. I have yet to see any stance from ABP on this matter - and if you truly ‘listened ‘ to us then you would know this is the largest current threat to our profession.

Being on the frontlines with our most vulnerable population during the last two years, and especially now, I am appalled but not surprised by the lack of insight by the ABP. I do know that there is a growing disdain for the organization and this new change has pushed it further.

We want to be part of an organization that will fight and support us, especially during these times, not one that claims to ‘listen’ by adding ‘busy work’ to continually profit from us. I hope that this time you actually will listen to us. 

Sincerely, 

An exhausted, angry, burnt out Pediatrician