Why It’s Important for Family Medicine-Trained Physicians to Get Board Certified in EM
Family medicine-trained physicians often find themselves at the forefront of emergency medicine (EM), especially in rural or underserved areas where specialized EM personnel are scarce. Despite their significant contributions and proven capabilities in emergency departments, these physicians frequently face barriers to formal EM certification due to traditional credentialing paths that require a residency specifically in emergency medicine.
The Challenge and Solution Provided by BCEM
Without formal certification in emergency medicine, many family medicine physicians who have spent considerable portions of their careers in emergency departments often do not receive the respect and opportunities afforded their certified peers, such as higher positions and leadership roles within medical institutions.
Recognizing this gap, the Board of Certification in Emergency Medicine (BCEM), a Member Board of the American Board of Physician Specialties® (ABPS), offers a nationally recognized certification pathway for family medicine physicians. This pathway not only validates their expertise in emergency medicine but also provides the credentials needed to advance their careers and gain due recognition in their chosen field.
Benefits of BCEM Certification
BCEM certification brings numerous advantages to family medicine-trained physicians working in emergency departments. It serves as proof of their ability to handle the high-stress, high-stakes environment of emergency medicine. Certified physicians are often more attractive to employers looking for doctors who can deliver high-quality emergency care.
As Dr. Jeremy Johnson, an ABPS Diplomate, states: “ABPS board certification provides a pathway for family medicine physicians to demonstrate they have the clinical knowledge and skills required to provide safe and effective care in emergency medicine. Patients benefit from having well-trained and competent physicians involved in their care, and ABPS board certification is a way patients can be assured of the quality of their physician.”
Learn More About BCEM Certification
For family medicine physicians who have dedicated significant parts of their careers to emergency medicine, achieving BCEM certification through the ABPS is a crucial step towards enhancing their professional status and improving patient care. To learn more about how you can attain BCEM certification and advance your career in emergency medicine, contact the ABPS today.