Published: May 4, 2026
Dear Licensee,
AOA (American Osteopathic Association) board certification is not currently an available option in the CME board certification reporting section. Because the Board is in the middle of the renewal cycle, making system changes now could disrupt licensees mid-renewal. This update will be incorporated in the next CME renewal year.
In the meantime, if you are a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), please select ABMS board certification to complete your current renewal. The Board is aware of AOA board certification and will take it into consideration in the event of an audit.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact our office.
Sincerely,
Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Won't selecting ABMS look like I'm misrepresenting my certification?
No. The Board has directed this selection as a temporary workaround while the system is updated. Your file with the Board reflects your actual certification status.
2. Will this affect my license status or trigger an audit flag?
No. The Board is aware of the system limitation and has authorized this approach. It will not affect your license status.
3. Do I need to upload proof of my AOA certification anywhere, or is selecting ABMS enough?
Selecting ABMS is sufficient for this renewal cycle. Keep your AOA certification documentation on file in case of audit.
4. What if I'm certified by both AOA and ABMS? Which do I pick?
Select ABMS, since that is the option available in the system.
5. How will the Board know I'm AOA-certified if I select ABMS?
If your renewal is selected for audit, the Board will verify your board certification at that time. The Board has access to board certification records, so licensees do not need to provide proof of certification unless requested.
6. What documentation should I keep in case I'm audited?
Keep your current AOA certification card or letter and your CME records (including AOA Category 1-A documentation) for the standard retention period.
7. When exactly will AOA be added as an option in the system?
AOA will be added before the next CME renewal cycle, which is 2028.
8. Will I need to update my record next year once AOA is added?
During the next CME renewal cycle, the CME certification question will be asked again. That is when licensees will update their record to reflect AOA certification.
9. I'm AOA board-eligible but not yet certified. What do I select?
Board-eligibility does not meet the board certification requirement. If you are board-eligible but not yet certified, you must demonstrate CME compliance through a Board-approved CME tracking system instead of the board certification option.
10. My AOA certification recently lapsed. Should I still select ABMS?
No. If your AOA certification has lapsed, you must either re-certify or demonstrate CME compliance through a Board-approved CME tracking system.
11. I'm a DO but only ABMS certified. Does this email apply to me?
No. If you are ABMS certified, simply select ABMS as you normally would. This guidance applies only to DOs whose board certification is through AOA.
Contact
For additional information or assistance, contact the Board.