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About
Setting standards and leading innovation for the practice of anesthesiology since 1938
Raleigh, N.C. (June 1, 2026) —The American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) is exploring a new formative assessment for trainees called Resident Reach to engage residents earlier in their professional development, an important part of its Strategic Plan, beginning with a pilot in fall 2026.
Resident Reach is intended to strengthen clinical reasoning, spark learning and dialogue with residents and teaching faculty, and provide program directors with a clearer, ongoing understanding of residents’ medical knowledge throughout training. The limited pilot will include various question formats, including multiple-choice, short-answer responses and case-based content.
In late 2024, the ABA conducted a Resident Reach proof-of-concept pilot with a small group of programs and residents. Building on those learnings, the ABA has selected a specific group of programs, representing a range of anesthesiology training environments across the country, to participate in a full platform pilot of Resident Reach in the fall of 2026. All programs will receive additional information following the pilot.
“We’re pleased to advance this additional pilot as an important next step for evaluating Resident Reach,” said ABA President Mark Keegan, M.B., B.Ch. “This is part of our larger effort to support continuous learning and to start that habit earlier in training, not just preparing for exams but also building the clinical reasoning abilities and knowledge required for daily practice as an anesthesiologist.”
The ABA strives to build lifelong partnerships with anesthesiologists throughout their careers. Resident Reach aims to exemplify that focus and cultivate the development of skills that advance the highest standards of the practice of anesthesiology.
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About the American Board of Anesthesiology The American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) has served as the certifying body for anesthesiologists since 1938, partnering with physicians to elevate the specialty. Our mission is to advance the highest standards of the practice of anesthesiology. We administer initial and subspecialty certification exams and the MOCA continuing certification program, which facilitates lifelong learning with a focus on quality and safety.
The ABA’s work extends far beyond assessment. We prioritize innovation, research, technology and programming that promote exceptional patient care and clinical outcomes. Our dedicated staff collaborates with more than 700 board-certified anesthesiologist volunteers who develop exam and MOCA content, inform policy, serve as examiners and provide critical feedback. Their contributions across numerous committees and task forces drive the ABA’s strategic progress and help shape the future of the specialty.
Based in Raleigh, NC, we are a nonprofit organization and a Member Board of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
