Maintenance of Certification (MOC)

When you entrust your pet's vision to a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, or DACVO), you can be confident that your specialist is committed to lifelong learning and maintaining the highest standards of care. Maintenance of Certification (MOC) is the process through which DACVOs demonstrate that they remain current with the latest advances in veterinary ophthalmology. Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving, with new surgical techniques, medical therapies, diagnostic technologies, and scientific discoveries emerging every year. MOC helps ensure that specialists continue to provide the most up-to-date, evidence-based care throughout their careers.

Mandatory vs. Voluntary Participation

Veterinary ophthalmologists who became board certified in 2015 or later are required to participate in MOC ("Mandatory"). Every five years, they must earn at least 300 MOC credits by participating in professional development activities. Failure to meet these requirements results in loss of board-certified (DACVO) status and the rights and privileges associated with board certification.

Veterinary ophthalmologists who became board certified before 2015 have the option to participate, but are not required("Voluntary").  Their optional or voluntary participation is a demonstration of their ongoing commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.

How Do Ophthalmologists Earn MOC Credits?

MOC recognizes a wide variety of educational and professional activities that contribute to advancing patient care.

Examples include:

Attending national, international, regional, and specialty veterinary ophthalmology conferences

Publishing scientific research, textbook chapters, and other scholarly works

Presenting research through lectures, abstracts, and scientific posters

Teaching other veterinarians, and veterinary interns, residents, and students

Serving on ACVO committees, participating in peer review, and contributing to the advancement of the specialty

Participating in continuing education programs on ophthalmology, surgery, workplace wellness, and diversity, equity, and inclusion

These activities ensure that board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists continue to learn from new research, share knowledge with colleagues, and actively contribute to improving the care of animals worldwide.

Maintenance of Certification reflects an ophthalmologist's ongoing dedication to professional excellence and to providing the highest quality ophthalmic care for every patient.