What Is the ABAM?

The American Board of Administrative Medicine (ABAM) is a nationally recognized certifying board that offers certification to physicians with proven expertise in nonclinical medicine. The ABAM is a Member Board of the American Board of Physician Specialties^® (ABPS), one of the nation’s most prominent multispecialty certifying bodies and the only board that offers certification in administrative medicine.

As defined by the ABAM, administrative medicine is the practice of physicians who, as executive leaders, manage the integration of clinical medicine, strategy, operations, and other business activities essential to achieving high-quality health care.

Since our founding in 1952, patient care has always been the priority of the ABPS, and we are committed to offering the highest certification standards that meet the public’s evolving healthcare needs. But we also understand that medicine is a business, and that there is a pressing need for physician leaders with business training and expertise. This need has created new opportunities for physician leaders, and ABAM certification is an excellent way for them to distinguish themselves and earn recognition for their insight into the business of medicine.

As Founding ABAM Board Member Judy L. Smith, MD, MS, CPE, FACS, stated: “Certification by the ABAM demonstrates to employers, hospital CEOs, boards of trustees, and other stakeholders that a physician leader has the business acumen to help them deliver exceptional medical care in a cost-efficient manner.”

ABAM Eligibility Requirements

The ABAM offers certification to both allopathic and osteopathic physicians. To be eligible to apply for initial certification, candidates must satisfy the general requirements of the ABPS. These include being a graduate of a recognized U.S., Canadian, or international allopathic or osteopathic college of medicine, and holding a valid and unrestricted license to practice medicine in the United States, its territories, or Canada. The ABAM has its own eligibility requirements, which include a master’s degree in business administration, medical management, or healthcare administration, or at least five years of cumulative experience in an administrative role in medical management, health administration, or another advanced degree in health care management/administration.

To earn certification with the ABAM, eligible candidates must pass a computer-based written exam. Once granted, ABAM certification is good for eight years, expiring on December 31 of the eighth year.

If you are a physician with experience in business leadership and management and would like more information about certification in administrative medicine, contact the ABPS today.