Internal Medicine | Board Certification Exam | BCIM

Internal Medicine: Board Certification Exam Overview

The physician board certification examination for the Board of Certification in Internal Medicine (BCIM) is conducted as a computer-based written test consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions. As with the exams for every member board of the American Board of Physician Specialties® (ABPS®), this clinically-based test provides physicians the opportunity to demonstrate that they have mastered the core competencies required to provide the finest medical care possible in the field of Internal Medicine.

The questions for the BCIM certification exam are drawn from 14 subject areas pertaining to Internal Medicine:

Allergies and immunities
Cardiology
Dermatology
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Genetic disorders
Hematology
Infectious diseases
Nephrology
Neurology
Oncology
Pulmonary and critical care
Rheumatology
General internal medicine

The number of questions on each subject area is determined by the relative importance of each. For example, a candidate can expect to see more questions about cardiology, gastroenterology, infectious diseases, pulmonary and critical care, and general internal medicine than subjects such as genetic disorders and allergies and immunities. Study aids for the BCIM exam are listed here.

To learn more about the BCIM exam, or for information about the eligibility requirements, contact the ABPS. The ABPS is the official multi-specialty board certifying body of the American Association of Physician Specialists, Inc.®

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Patient Care Is Our Priority

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

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