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Demonstration of Ophthalmic Cognitive Knowledge (DOCK)
Evidence of Cognitive Expertise
The Demonstration of Ophthalmic Cognitive Knowledge (DOCK) examination tests the fundamental cognitive knowledge, as well as, current and clinically valid practice related knowledge. The content of the DOCK exam is based on the Practicing Ophthalmologist Curriculum (POC), a clinically relevant ophthalmic knowledge base developed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology at the request of the Board. For more information on the POC and how to access the content of the POC, click here.
Diplomates who are eligible to participate in DOCK can learn about the examination process via this guide.
Demonstration of Ophthalmic Cognitive Knowledge (DOCK)Overview
The DOCK is a secure, proctored, 150-item computer-based examination administered at ACT Center locations for a period of one month each year in September. The registration filing period runs from mid-January - April 1 of each year for the September DOCK. (Late registrations are accepted until May 1 if accompanied by a $300 late fee.)
The exam is administered in an approximately four hour testing period.
DOCK consists of one 50-item module on core ophthalmic knowledge and two 50-item modules drawn from the practice emphasis areas listed below. There are two versions of most practice emphasis modules, however, there is only one version of the Refractive Management/Intervention and Uveitis modules. Diplomates can opt to select two modules from one practice emphasis area or one module from two different practice emphasis areas.
- DOCK Practice Emphasis Areas
- Comprehensive Ophthalmology
- Cataract/Anterior Segment
- Cornea/External Disease
- Glaucoma
- Neuro-ophthalmology and Orbit
- Oculoplastics and Orbit
- Pediatric Ophthalmology/Strabismus
- Retina/Vitreous
- Refractive Management/Intervention
- Uveitis
DOCK Content and Scoring
The Practicing Ophthalmologist Curriculum (POC) will serve as the basis for the content of the DOCK. Other areas to be covered in the DOCK include patient safety, environment of medical practice and ethics. Diplomates will be required to achieve an overall passing grade based on the combined grades of all three modules.
Applying for the September DOCK
Eligible diplomates will be able to apply for the September 1-30 DOCK via the Online Services Center from February – April 1. (Late registrations are accepted until May 1 if accompanied by a $300 late fee.)
DOCK Scheduling
The availability of approximately 230 ACT Center locations should enable diplomates to take the DOCK in a location close to home or practice. Approved diplomates will be sent an email with instructions for scheduling an appointment at an ACT Center locations. Diplomates will be instructed to schedule immediately upon receipt of the instructions. Every effort will be made to ensure a requested test site is honored, however diplomates who do not schedule in a timely fashion may not be able to schedule an appointment at their desired testing center.
DOCK Timeframe
DOCK must be completed once during the MOC cycle. Ultimately, diplomates will complete the DOCK in years 8-10 of each ten year cycle, however while the Board transitions to maintenance of certification, the timeframe requirements are slightly different for each group of diplomates. Please refer to the MOC timeframe chart to determine the specific requirements for each group of diplomates. Diplomates can find out their specific MOC requirements and current eligibility through the Online MOC Center.
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