Upcoming Change: ABTS to Retire Self-reporting of CME Credit by Diplomates

ACCME News Release (02/25/26)

The American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) will end self-reporting of continuing medical education (CME) credits by diplomates on Dec. 31, 2027. Beginning in 2028, only CME credits submitted directly by accredited providers through PARS or JA-PARS will count toward ABTS Continuing Certification, prompting providers whose activities serve ABTS diplomates to register activities and report learner credit through these systems. This shift aligns with the broader move toward automated, provider-reported CME data, which reduces administrative burden for surgeons, improves accuracy and verification of CME records, and enables physicians to track their credit seamlessly in CME Passport without uploading certificates. ABTS, Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, and Joint Accreditation plan to issue additional guidance over the next two years to support a smooth transition.

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