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Setting standards and leading innovation for the practice of anesthesiology since 1938
Raleigh, N.C. (Sept. 2, 2026) — A new article published in Anesthesiology Clinics explores the evolution and future directions of ABA certification, drawing on decades of research. This comprehensive review details how the ABA has modernized its assessments based on empirical evidence and best practices to support the rigor, validity and fairness that underpin certification.
Since the specialty was first established in 1938, ABA assessments have transformed substantially, from a simple written and oral component to today’s staged, multimodal assessment system. This structure sequences certification assessments across multiple milestones aligned with trainees’ developmental progression, rather than relying on a single high-stakes examination.
Current assessments include formative In-Training Exams, computer-based written certification exams (BASIC, ADVANCED and subspecialty) and the APPLIED Exam, comprised of the performance-based Standard Oral Examination (SOE) and the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
“For nearly 90 years, ABA certification has continued to evolve alongside advances in medicine, education and assessment,” said ABA Director and Assessments Committee Chair Mohammed M. Minhaj M.D., MBA. This publication highlights how the ABA has continuously upheld the quality of its assessments through decades of change while maintaining the highest standards that distinguish board-certified anesthesiologists.”
The ABA’s latest paper illuminates the research supporting how it develops, administers and scores these assessments, detailing extensive psychometric processes spanning the full lifecycle of an exam and beyond. These psychometric processes all focus on maintaining ABA assessments’ reliability, validity and legal defensibility.
Among the studies discussed, ABA research has linked stronger examination performance with lower rates of subsequent medical license actions, while acknowledging that certification is one component of a broader quality assurance system. All archived ABA research can be found here.
The review also explores the role of competency-based medical education (CBME) in the ABA’s assessment landscape. CBME is an increasingly common framework across American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) member boards that emphasizes frequent, low-stakes assessment, narrative feedback in clinical settings and earlier identification of learning needs. Within this framework, the ABA’s staged assessment system mirrors trainees’ progression through residency while remaining distinct from program-based assessment. Programs evaluate residents’ day-to-day performance and competency development, while the ITEs and BASIC, ADVANCED and APPLIED exams provide complementary external checkpoints of knowledge, judgment and readiness for practice.
Looking ahead to the future, the ABA is on its way to developing an innovative, digital-first assessment ecosystem to support training, initial and subspecialty certification and continuing certification. “Digital-first” refers to an approach where the entire assessment process, from development and delivery to scoring and feedback, leverages digital technologies.
Emerging advances in technology and AI may create new opportunities to enhance various aspects of the certification process. Consistent with the ABA’s longstanding approach to intentional, evidence-based evolution, realizing that potential must hinge on rigorous validation, careful governance and transparency.
Read the study abstract here.
The publication’s authors include ABA Chief Assessment Officer, Ann Harman, Ph.D.; ABA President Mark T. Keegan M.B., B.Ch.; and ABA Director and Assessments Committee Chair Mohammed M. Minhaj M.D., MBA. The paper was published in the August 2026 issue of Anesthesiology Clinics.
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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).
