Who is Eligible for ABPS Physician Board Certification?

While the specific eligibility requirements to apply for the opportunity to achieve physician board certification through the American Board of Physicians Specialties (ABPS) differ from specialty to specialty, there are a number of general eligibility requirements that are shared by our Member Boards. The examination standards of the ABPS are as rigorous as any physician certifying body in North America, and the eligibility requirements are just as stringent.

Expanded Eligibility for Recertification

Also, recertification is not merely limited to Diplomates of the ABPS. Physicians whose board certifications were achieved through the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Board or the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) Board might also be eligible for recertification through the ABPS, as long as they remain in good standing with their certifying organizations, have an active certificate and meet ABPS requirements for recertification. This service is unique to the ABPS, which believes that qualified physicians should have the opportunity to achieve recertification with the organization of their choice.

General Requirements for Certification and Recertification

In order to meet the general eligibility requirements for board certification and recertification through the ABPS, physicians must:

• Demonstrate three to five years of advanced training , depending on the specialty and completion of an ACGME or AOA approved residency, depending on the specialty
• Demonstrate attestation of a full, unrestricted medical license in every state where he or she practices
• Complete a non-remedial medical ethics course
• Maintain certification and achieve recertification within eight years
• Complete at least 50 hours a year of continuing medical education

All ABPS Diplomates must complete the ethics course as a reflection of the organization’s commitment to patient safety and ethical practice. This ensures that all certified physicians demonstrate not only clinical excellence but also compassion and professional integrity.

These are some of the general eligibility requirements for physician board certification through the ABPS, so it is important to understand the eligibility requirements for each of the Member Boards. All ABPS physicians who seek recertification must complete the ethics course, which is in keeping with the ABPS values that espouse the importance of ensuring patient safety while providing the highest possible level of care with demonstrated compassion.

Benefits of Certification Through an ABPS Member Board

Choosing to certify or recertify with an ABPS Member Board offers physicians several important advantages. ABPS certification is widely respected for its clinical focus and its rigorous but fair testing process. Physicians certified through the ABPS gain access to a national network of like-minded peers who value ethical practice and lifelong learning.

In addition, ABPS-certified physicians are recognized by many hospitals, credentialing organizations, and state medical boards across the U.S. and Canada. This certification can boost career mobility, enhance credibility with patients and colleagues, and create opportunities for leadership in both clinical and academic settings.

To learn about the specific eligibility requirements for the specialty or sub-specialty of your choice, contact the ABPS today.