Columbia Cornell Obesity Medicine FAQs
Find answers about Columbia Cornell Obesity Medicine (CCOM) course formats, packages, continuing medical education (CME), and learning materials. Explore the CCOM program page for current offerings.
Choosing a Course
Who are CCOM courses designed for?
CCOM courses are designed for healthcare professionals—including primary care providers, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, experienced clinicians, and medical specialists—seeking to deepen their knowledge and expertise in caring for patients with obesity. As a Primary Education Partner of the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM), CCOM also offers courses that support physicians pursuing ABOM certification. Participation in a course is separate from eligibility for physician board certification.
How do live and on-demand courses differ?
Live courses follow a scheduled program and offer opportunities for questions and interaction with faculty. On-demand courses use recorded lectures, allowing you to study at your own pace before the activity expires. Available formats vary by course.
How often is course content updated?
Course content is reviewed annually to incorporate research, learner feedback, and ABOM guidance. Purchasing one edition does not automatically provide access to the next edition.
When are live courses offered, and when can I register?
The foundational course is generally held in spring, and the exam review is generally offered in summer. Registration dates vary. Check the current course listings before making travel or study plans.
What is included in the two-course and three-course packages?
Package Included courses
Two-course package Obesity: Etiology, Prevention, and Treatment + Obesity: Additional Topics for Advanced Study
Three-course package Obesity: Etiology, Prevention, and Treatment + Obesity: Additional Topics for Advanced Study +
Review for the Obesity Medicine Certification Exam
The 2026 on-demand packages offer up to 63.5 and 77.5 CME credits, respectively. Check the selected edition’s listing for its credit designation and deadlines.
Which package should I choose?
Choose the two-course package for foundational and advanced education. Consider the three-course package if you also want exam review. CCOM recommends taking the review during your intended examination year, so factor that timing into your choice.
CME and Certification
Can CCOM courses count toward ABOM’s CME requirements?
Yes. The American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) lists CCOM as a designated provider and Primary Educational Partner. Credit categories, earning windows, and application requirements depend on your examination year.
Review the ABOM CME pathway requirements before selecting courses. Earning CME credits does not by itself confer certification or satisfy every eligibility requirement.
When must I complete my course and claim credit?
For on-demand activities, finish the required coursework and claim CME before the stated expiration date. Live activities have separate credit-claim deadlines. Follow the deadline for your specific activity rather than assuming it is based on your purchase date.
Materials and Access
How long can I review on-demand course materials?
Learners who complete the course requirements and claim CME before expiration retain access to materials for three years after the activity expires. This review period does not extend the deadline for earning credit.
Can I download lectures or slides?
Lecture slides are available as downloadable PDFs. Videos must be streamed through the course platform and require an internet connection.
What happens if my on-demand course expires before I finish?
Access to incomplete courses cannot be extended beyond expiration. An upgrade to the latest edition may be available for a fee. Contact the CCOM team to discuss your options.
Registration and Support
Are discounts available?
Discounts are available for eligible learners, including trainees, non-physician professionals, institutional affiliates, military personnel, past participants, and groups. Contact ihnce@cumc.columbia.edu to check eligibility and request a code before registering.
Where can I register?
Visit Columbia Cornell Obesity Medicine courses and registration to compare current options and access the registration catalog.