Limited Time Eligibility Option for Physician Board Certification in Integrative Medicine
Practitioners of Integrative Medicine and leaders in the field who wish to achieve board certification through the American Board of Integrative Medicine (ABOIM) may take advantage of a limited-time eligibility option being offered by the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS). This option is available for applicants who have a minimum of one year of Integrative Medicine practice and apply no later than Dec. 1, 2016. This option will be phased out as more fellowships are established and as instruction in Integrative Medicine becomes more widely available.
The option is being made available because the ABOIM acknowledges that many allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) physicians have become proficient in the practice of Integrative Medicine through clinical experience, continuing medical education and self-study. Eligibility will be based on a points system, with applicants who reach a minimum of 500 points gaining consideration. Points can be accrued through the following methods:
- Clinical practice of Integrative Medicine (Minimum one year required – 50 points per year award, maximum 250 points)
- Active Diplomates of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine (ABIHM) receive 200 points
- One point for each documented hour of successful completion of Category 1 American Medical Association (AMA) CME in Integrative Medicine (No maximum – credits must be earned within the past 8 years.)
- One point for each documented hour of successful completion of Category 2 AMA CME in Integrative Medicine (maximum 150 points – credits must be earned within the past 8 years.)
- One point for each program hour for individuals who successfully complete an Integrative Medicine Residency Program
These eligibility requirements are in addition to the general eligibility requirements adopted by all ABPS Member Boards. To learn more, or for further details about the limited-time eligibility option for board certification in Integrative Medicine, contact the ABPS. The ABPS is the official board certifying body of the American Association of Physician Specialists, Inc.