Abstract
The rigorous demands of colon and rectal surgery necessitate comprehensive assessment
and continuous professional development. Historically, surgical training relied solely
on time-based progression including a non-specific but holistic declaration of competency
by program directors, but a global shift toward competency-based medical education
(CBME) now prioritizes skill acquisition. For residents, current assessment integrates
ACGME milestones, detailed ACGME case logs, and the CARSITE examination, moving beyond
traditional subjective evaluations. Although initial board certification retains its
written and oral examination structure, maintenance of certification for practicing
surgeons has evolved to CertLink, a continuous longitudinal assessment. Furthermore,
the advent of ASCRS U and on-demand content has revolutionized access to continuing
medical education (CME). This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of modern
assessment strategies for both trainees and board-certified colorectal surgeons, detailing
current practices, emerging trends, and future considerations. The commitment to robust
assessment ensures high standards of practice and optimal patient outcomes in this
dynamic specialty.
Keywords
resident assessment - colorectal surgery - competency-based medical education - CARSITE
- continuing medical education (CME) - board certification - lifelong learning
