Clinically Inactive

Clinically Inactive Diplomates

Diplomates who are no longer in active practice and do not treat patients in any capacity may pursue the Certified – Clinically Inactive status by applying for recertification and fulfilling all application and eligibility requirements.  The Diplomate must attest that he or she is not actively participating in any direct patient management. This status is intended for individuals who are completely retired, working in an administrative or research capacity, or similar situation, and do not treat patients or hold hospital privileges.

Requirements for Certified – Clinically Inactive Status

Diplomates who are no longer clinically active must participate in Parts I, II and III of the ABCRS Maintenance of Certification program.  For Part 1, they must maintain a full and unrestricted medical license and submit two letters from supervisors or peers who are familiar with their non-clinical activities and can attest to his/her ethical and professional status. Parts 2 and 3 of MOC must also be fulfilled, but not Part 4, practice assessment.  These diplomates must also complete the MOC requirements every three years.

Maintenance of Certification Application

To complete Clinically Inactive maintenance of certification application, a cover letter should be submitted in lieu of the operative experience report. The letter should include a full description of professional activities and why you are seeking this certification. You should also address if you have any patient contact, be it inpatient, outpatient, consultative or otherwise, and whether you communicate with patients in any manner, including through e-mail, blogs, other Internet forums, phone, face-to-face, etc. Also note if you make any clinical decisions or recommendations of any kind, including chart review, review or assessments of studies or laboratories, or similar. An evaluation form Clinically Inactive Evaluation Form  must be submitted from a supervisor or peer who is familiar with your non-clinical activities and can attest to your ethical and professional status.

Upon successful completion of the recertification examination, the diplomate will be deemed “Certified – Clinically Inactive” and receive a certificate so stating.

Verification of Diplomate’s Status

Any inquiry received by the ABCRS as to the diplomate’s certification status will specify that the diplomate is considered clinically inactive and that this status is intended only for diplomates who do not have any involvement in patient management. Clinically inactive diplomates who decide to change their status and return to active practice must first develop a reentry plan with their institution’s credentialing office for approval by the ABCRS. The diplomate will be required to submit information regarding their return to clinical activity, including plans for monitoring and evaluation during the reentry process, and fulfill additional requirements based on the diplomate’s particular circumstances.

Clinically Inactive Evaluation Form