Why it is Wrong that Some Qualified Physicians Remain Unable to Secure a Career Foothold with Hospitals
In spite of impending physician shortages, some hospitals continue to ignore some qualified physicians merely because of the board-certifying body they chose to become certified through. The American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) believes this flaw in hiring policies will do nothing but exacerbate the physician shortage problem, leaving perfectly qualified physicians frustrated and − more importantly − threatening the quality of care available to patients.
There is political precedent in the medical world for changing bylaws to be more in line with societal norms. There was a time, not long ago, when Osteopathic physicians were discriminated against when it came to hiring practices by hospitals and practice management groups. Society’s accepted standards of medical care have evolved, and today practicing physicians with “D.O.” after their names are practically universally accepted. In other words, bylaws and hiring practices have evolved, as well. This evolution can and should be instructive for hiring boards that have not yet reached the logical conclusion that in the 21st century, qualified physicians want and deserve a choice when it comes to physician board certification. As things stand now, the only choice many physicians have is to go with the American Board of Medical Specialties or otherwise become essentially blocked from career advancement in a hospital setting.
The ABPS has indisputably demonstrated that its eligibility requirements and testing standards are every bit as stringent as any other multi-specialty board certifying body in the United States. In fact, the ABPS’ requirement for recertification after eight years − as opposed to 10 years − ensures that ABPS Diplomates must remain even more up-to-speed than those who are given full decade between recertification exams. We bring up this distinction merely to reinforce the point that physician board certification through the ABPS should not be dismissed when it comes to hospital and management care group hiring practices. Ultimately, the patients are the ones who will suffer because of the current short-sighted approach to hiring physicians.
To learn more, contact the ABPS. The ABPS is the official multi-specialty board–certifying body of the American Association of Physician Specialties, Inc.
