Limited Time Eligibility Option for Physician Board Certification in Integrative Medicine

Integrative MedicinePractitioners 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.

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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