EDUCATION
The RRCA governs resident training (see also Chapter
85
). It is charged by the ACGME with developing standards for residency
education, which are reviewed and revised every 5 years, and with inspecting and
evaluating all residency programs, both core and subspecialty. The parent organizations
for the RRCA are the ABA, the ASA, and the American Medical Association (AMA). In
1998, a resident member was added to the RRCA, bringing the unique and welcome view
of a trainee to the discussions.
As mentioned previously and as depicted in Figure
2-7
, American medical student interest in the specialty of anesthesiology,
which declined dramatically, secondary to the perception that there were few practice
opportunities, has rebounded nicely.
Starting on January 1, 2000, the ABA, similar to most other specialty
boards, began to issue time-limited certificates (10-year limit). In order to recertify,
all diplomates must participate in a developing program called Maintenance of Certification
in Anesthesiology (MOCA). Those diplomates whose certificates are not time-limited
may participate voluntarily. The MOCA program emphasizes continuous self-improvement—a
cornerstone of
Figure 2-7
Number of first-year residents in anesthesiology registered
with the American Board of Anesthesiology over the years 1989–2003. (Data
provided by the American Board of Anesthesiology.)
professional excellence—and evaluation of clinical skills and practice performance
to assure quality as well as public accountability. The components include a measure
of professional standing (unrestricted state licensure), a commitment to lifelong
learning (formal and informal continuing medical education), cognitive expertise
(taking and passing a secure examination), and evaluation of current practice.
