Eligibility Requirements for Family Medicine Obstetrics Physician Board Certification
The eligibility requirements for qualified physicians to take the exam to become board-certified in Family Medicine Obstetrics are just as stringent as all specialties that are administered by the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS). The tests themselves are developed under the most rigorous standards in the industry, which means the ABPS eligibility requirements ensure that physicians are truly qualified to attempt to earn the distinction of becoming certified through the Board of Certification in Family Medicine/Obstetrics (BCFMO).
BCFMO Offers Two Types of Certification
In addition to the baseline eligibility requirements held in common by all ABPS Member Boards, the additional requirements for potential candidates to take the written exam in Family Medicine Obstetrics include two distinct tracks— surgical qualification certification and non-surgical certification.
Certification with surgical qualification has two paths—clinical practice and fellowship.
For the clinical practice track, candidates need to have completed an accredited residency by ACGME, AOA, or CFPC, or an AOA internship coupled with a general medicine residency. Furthermore, they must have completed at least 60 vaginal and 70 cesarean deliveries, including 15 vaginal and 10 cesarean sections within the last two years.
For the fellowship track, candidates must have completed within the past five years a 12-month, full-time fellowship recognized by the BCFMO. Candidates must also meet the same delivery requirements as the clinical practice route. A list of approved BCFMO fellowships can be accessed for further reference.
For non-surgical qualification, candidates must maintain a log of their non-surgical deliveries.
Eligibility for the BCFMO certification involves passing both written and oral examinations, designed by field experts to ensure only the most capable physicians in obstetrics and gynecology are certified.
Once awarded, the BCFMO certification remains valid for eight years, expiring on December 31st of the eighth year.
Benefits of Certification From an ABPS Member Board
Board certification from an ABPS Member Board, such as the BCFMO, is widely recognized as a testament to a physician’s expertise and professionalism. As a result, ABPS-certified physicians are considered some of the most respected medical professionals in North America. Certification provides physicians with several significant benefits, including:
- Joining a respected community dedicated to enhancing patient care and safety.
- The opportunity to exchange clinical experiences and best practices with fellow experts.
- Access to a variety of leadership opportunities within the medical community.
- A significant role as a valued contributor within their professional circles.
To learn more about the Family Medicine Obstetrics eligibility requirements, click here or contact the ABPS today