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Connecting the Dots: Why Physicians Certify in the Specialties They Practice

Smiling group of physiciansTechnically speaking, becoming board certified is a voluntary process that physicians can consider pursuing. However, in today’s increasingly competitive global healthcare environment, there are more reasons to consider board certification than ever before. Not only does board certification represent a significant professional accomplishment, it can have a profound long-term impact on professional development. For these reasons and others, the American Board of Physician Specialties® (ABPS) strongly recommends that motivated, experienced, and highly trained physicians explore the prospects of validating their expertise through board certification from one of our numerous member boards.

Board Certification With a Nationally Recognized Organization

Founded in 1952 and recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, the ABPS has maintained a pragmatic approach to certification. We offer both allopathic and osteopathic physicians certification and recertification in 18 different specialties, from traditional fields like family medicine and dermatology to emerging specialties like disaster medicine and integrative medicine. In fact, we are the only multi-specialty board that offers integrative medicine certification. We are also the only multi-specialty board that requires its Diplomates to complete a medical ethics course to achieve recertification. Here are other important facts:

  • The ABPS is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor as a leading choice for physician board certification.
  • Federal and state organizations that recognize ABPS certifications include the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Veterans’ Health Administration, and the United States Armed Forces under the GI Bill.
  • Various state medical boards, including Florida’s, have written or retained strict language that accepts and recognizes ABPS as a recognized certifying board that meets the higher standards of certification they require.
  • Top healthcare and credentialing organizations such as Chartis, HCPro, and the National Association of Medical Staff Services (NAMSS) recognize ABPS as a choice in physician certification.

How Medical Specialty Certification Benefits Healthcare

Traditionally, board certification has long been seen as a trusted indicator of a physician’s expertise in the area of medicine that he or she practices. Many prospective patients use the board certification distinction as a deciding factor when selecting which physician to trust with their care, and for this reason alone, becoming board certified is worthwhile. There is also a sense of professional accomplishment that comes from having your experience and expertise validated by an independent third party that has affirmed you’re among the most imminently qualified physicians in your specialty.

Furthermore, credentialing organizations, hospital groups, and insurance companies are increasingly requiring board certification as a prerequisite for career advancement and new employment opportunities. There is also a greater need than ever before for physician leaders in healthcare organizations of all sizes, and board certification remains a distinguishing factor that can separate otherwise equally qualified candidates for new positions.

Another advantage of board certification through the ABPS is that our Diplomates are part of a community of like-minded physicians who work together to share best practices and help evolve their specialty. New career opportunities are shared through the organization, networking opportunities abound, and our Diplomates know that their voices are heard. The ABPS works closely with credentialers, legislators, and other stakeholders to ensure that our Diplomates have every opportunity to excel.

Get More Information About Certification With an ABPS Member Board

There are countless benefits to becoming board certified. If you are a physician who is currently exploring becoming board certified and would like to learn more about the ABPS and our various member boards, contact us today. The ABPS is the official 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 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
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
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