Recertification in the medical specialties.

To summarize, this paper presents three goals for an ideal rectification program. Based on these goals, two dimensions of an evaluation system for recertification are described. The first dimension focuses on what needs to be assessed and how it is measured, including assessments of practice, potential, and nontechnical aspects of practice. The second dimension is composed of three issues that cut across the assessment components: pathways to recertification, content of the assessments, and standards. It will take decades for the Boards work through these issues, but the result will be credibility in the eyes of the public and enhanced recognition in the eyes of the profession.