Coming in 2027: Sports Medicine Longitudinal Assessment (SPMED‑LA)

Beginning in 2027, ABFM Diplomates holding a Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) in Sports Medicine will have a new option for meeting their exam requirement: the Sports Medicine Longitudinal Assessment (SPMED‑LA). This flexible alternative to the one-day exam allows Diplomates to meet their exam requirement over time, similar to the Family Medicine Certification Longitudinal Assessment.

SPMED‑LA aligns with adult learning principles and is coupled with modern technology to promote enduring learning, retention, and transfer of knowledge. Diplomates will receive 17 questions each quarter, which can be completed at their own pace, on their own device, and in the location of their choice. Diplomates can also access clinical references when answering exam questions, much like they do in practice. Over four years, participants must complete 204 questions and achieve a passing score to meet their exam requirement.

Sports Medicine 5‑Year Cycle

Also in 2027, physicians holding a Sports Medicine CAQ will begin a 5-Year Cycle in the year their exam requirement is due. Physicians will automatically be enrolled in SPMED-LA when registering for the Sports Medicine 5-Year Cycle. Registration opens in late October 2026 for eligible physicians.

Please note: 2026 is the final year ABFM will grant a 10-year certification for those who take and pass the one-day exam. Exam windows in 2026 are July 7–11 and November 9–18.

Learn More

Visit the Sports Medicine Longitudinal Assessment page to explore details about SPMED‑LA, certification requirements, and upcoming timelines.

For questions, contact us at (877) 223‑7437 or help@theabfm.org.