What Board Certification Means for Physicians, Employers and Patients

Board Certification MeaningPhysician board certification through the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) means different things to the various stakeholders in the realm of medical care. These stakeholders are the physicians along with their employers and patients. The ABPS is the official board certifying body of the American Association of Physician Specialists, Inc. and Member Boards administer certification exams for 18 distinct specialties.

The bottom line of board certification for physicians is that it provides an opportunity to demonstrate they have mastered the core competencies required to provide patients with the best possible care. It is tangible evidence that the knowledge and experience of a board-certified physician has been acknowledged by a respected, historically credible certifying body. There are other benefits for physicians, as well, including:

  • Unlimited board certification attestation for active ABPS Diplomates
  • Opportunities to participate in Member Board development and governance
  • Emeritus Certification for retired Diplomates
  • Use of the ABPS certification mark
  • Opportunities for dual boarded certification and recertification
  • Complimentary AAPS membership
  • Career networking opportunities

What board certification means for prospective employers is that the physician-candidate is a marketable entity, as well as being a proven and accomplished practitioner. This is particularly beneficial for new healthcare facilities that are building a patient base. For example, a newly opened urgent care center can earn instant credibility by hiring physicians who have achieved urgent care certification through the Board of Certification in Urgent Care Medicine (BCUCM).

Perhaps, most important, is the peace of mind a patient will receive knowing the chosen physician has reached the level of professional achievement necessary to achieve board certification through the ABPS. The mission of the ABPS revolves around the organization’s code of ethics whereby patients will know their doctor is bound by a pledge to maintain the highest standard of professional conduct as well as to strive to always provide the best possible medical care.

To learn more about what ABPS board certification means to the various stakeholders, contact us today.

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Medical organizations throughout North America understand that our rigorous certification standards prove that ABPS Diplomates are capable of delivering the best patient care possible.

When I decided to pursue a full time role as a physician executive it was important to me to obtain additional professional training, education and work experience. Board certification through the ABPS in Administrative Medicine is validation of my efforts and a demonstration of dedication to professional development. We need more physicians to become full time health care executives, knowing there is a board certification option in Administrative Medicine encourages physicians to take the leap from full time clinical practice to healthcare organizational leadership.

Richard Paula, MD
Administrative Medicine
The American Board of Physician Specialties has provided me with the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of internal medicine through board certification. As a hospitalist, board certification is an expected credential, and hospitals recognize the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) as one of the three standard credentialling bodies for Internal Medicine. Additionally, the ABPS has helped me develop leadership skills as a Board member and Committee Chairperson. ABPS has also helped me sharpen critical thinking skills as a test question developer and reviewer. The Allopathic (MD) and Osteopathic (DO) physicians in the ABPS are lifelong learners and frequently pursue multiple board certifications. I enjoy the camaraderie of my peers in ABPS.

Loren Jay Chassels, DO
Internal Medicine
When I think historically, advancement in medicine and patient safety and care has been driven by the diversity of people and scientific thought. That’s what I found at the ABPS and more. For over 60 years that is just who we are. I found a physician certifying body that provides a choice and voice to all physicians ensuring that patients are always placed first.

Jerry Allison, MD
Emergency Medicine