AAPS sues to end recertification program

The Association of American Physicians and Surgeons has filed an antitrust suit against the American Board of Medical Specialties, claiming its board recertification program violates antitrust laws and reduces patient access to physicians.The physicians' group filed the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, seeking to end the ABMS’ Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program, according to its 20-page complaint. ABMS works with 24 specialty boards, which cover nearly every medical specialty, to develop recertification programs and promote continuous professional development. The boards aren't named in the lawsuit.