Component Three: Cognitive Expertise

The diplomate is expected to maintain the essentials of core knowledge fundamental to the practice of radiation oncology. Documentation of cognitive expertise requires completion of a computer-based examination within the last three years of the 10-year MOC cycle.

An exam is offered by the ABR at least twice a year.

The examination, derived from the recertification exam offered from 1999 to 2004, is a comprehensive test covering the knowledge base required for the practice of radiation oncology. The proctored examination is currently administered at Pearson VUE testing centers located in cities across the United States.

On the day of the examination, the diplomate (the person scheduled to participate in the examination, according to ABR records) must confirm identity by presenting a government-issued photo I.D. Four hours are allotted for the exam.

The ABR computer-based examination in radiation oncology covers the following content areas:

1. Gastrointestinal cancers
2. Genitourinary cancers
3. Gynecological cancers
4. Breast cancer
5. Lymphomas and leukemias
6. Head and neck cancers
7. Pediatric cancers
8. Central nervous system tumors
9. Sarcomas
10. Thoracic malignancies
11. Palliation
12. Radiation and cancer biology
13. Physics

American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) Staging:
In all instances where questions relate to disease staging of contemporaneous cases or hypothetical situations, the correct staging system will be the most current as published by the AJCC (at this time, Ed. 7, dated January 1, 2010). In instances where questions refer to previously reported clinical trials, staging will relate to the system in place at the time of the report.

MOC Exam - Hand Score Request

1. The deadline for requesting a hand score is two months after the date your results letter was mailed.
2. You must submit your request in writing by mail or fax:
   
   • Mail: 5441 E. Williams Boulevard, Suite 200
     Tucson AZ 85711
   • Fax: 520-790-3200

   The fee for a hand score is $250. You may pay by credit card . Please note that the ABR cannot accept credit card forms by email.

3. Results will be sent to you by regular mail. Please allow four to six weeks for our response.