American Board of Medical Specialties

Overview

The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is a non-profit organization that certifies medical doctors (MDs) and doctors of osteopathic Medicine (DOs) who have demonstrated expertise in their respective medical specialties. The ABMS was founded in 1937 and is responsible for setting Standards and criteria for Certification, Continuing Education, and Professional Development within the field of Medicine.

History

The ABMS was established in response to concerns about the quality of training programs in various medical specialties. In the early 20th century, many Residency programs were poorly structured, leading to a lack of expertise among physicians. The organization’s founding members included prominent physicians such as John E. McCormick and Richard P. Hubbard.

Certification Process

The ABMS offers Certification for several medical specialties, including:

  • Cardiology: Certified Cardiologist (CC)
  • Gastroenterology: Certified Gastroenterologist (CG)
  • Hematology: Certified Hematologist (CH)
  • Internal Medicine: Board-Certified Internist (BCIM), Board-Certified Geriatrician and Palliative Care Specialist (BCEPGS), or Board-Certified Hospital Medicine Specialist (BHCM)
  • Neurology: Certified Neurologist (CNe)
  • Ophthalmology: Certified Ophthalmologist (CO)
  • Orthopedic Surgery: Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon (BCOS), Board-Certified Joint and Soft Tissue Specialist (BJSTS), or Board-Certified Spine Surgeon (BCSV)
  • Pediatrics: Certifying Board in Pediatrics (CBP)
  • Urology: Certified Urologist (CU)

Requirements for Certification

To become certified by the ABMS, physicians must meet certain requirements, including:

  • Completing a Residency program in their chosen specialty
  • Passing a written examination administered by the ABMS
  • Agreeing to adhere to the ABMS’s Standards and guidelines
  • Maintaining ongoing education and Professional Development

Benefits of Certification

Certification through the ABMS offers several benefits to physicians, including:

  • Enhanced Credibility: Certification demonstrates expertise and commitment to a particular specialty
  • Increased Job Security: Certified physicians are more likely to be sought after by patients and employers
  • Improved Patient Outcomes: Certified physicians have received specialized training and education in their area of practice
  • Access to Specialty Resources: Certified physicians have access to ABMS-sponsored Resources, including Continuing Education opportunities

Controversies and Criticisms

The ABMS has faced several controversies and criticisms over the years, including:

  • Lack of Transparency: Some critics argue that the Certification process is not transparent enough, with some physicians facing significant financial burdens in pursuing Certification
  • Over-Specialization: Critics argue that the focus on specialized training programs can lead to over-specialization, reducing opportunities for general practice and primary care
  • Inequitable Access: Some critics argue that access to ABMS-sponsored Resources is not equitable, with some physicians from underrepresented groups facing significant barriers in pursuing Certification

Membership and Governance

The ABMS is governed by a board of trustees, which includes representatives from the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), and other professional medical organizations. The board sets Policies and Standards for the organization, while also providing oversight and guidance to physicians who are pursuing Certification.

Resources and Support

The ABMS provides various Resources and support to its certified physicians, including:

References

  1. American Board of Medical Specialties. (2022). About the ABMS. Retrieved from https://abms.org/about/
  2. American Medical Association. (2022). Physician Resources and Support for Certification. Retrieved from Resources-library/Physician-Resources-support-Certification>
  3. American Osteopathic Association. (2022). Certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (CDOM) Program. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/certified-doctor-of-osteopathic-[Medicine](/Medicine)/

Note: The references provided are just a few examples of the many Resources available to support physicians who are pursuing Certification through the ABMS.