Why Many Physicians Become Board Certified

Why Physicians Certify ABPSFor years, Board Certification has been the most trusted indicator that a physician has mastered the core competencies of his or her area of expertise. Being a Board Certified physician is more important today than ever before for a number of reasons.

First and foremost, the process of becoming board certified through the American Board of Physician Specialties® (ABPS) is intentionally rigorous. In order to earn the distinction of board certification, candidates must have verifiable experience in their specialty area, successfully complete a standardized, psychometrically validated examination, and, in some cases, submit to an oral examination, in addition to completing a thorough application. The goal of this process is to ensure that only the most highly qualified physicians are able to earn the distinction of being board certified.

While Board Certification is officially a voluntary process, there are many reasons why physicians should consider making the commitment necessary to become certified. For starters, many healthcare organizations, hospitals, and other organization are increasingly requiring that their physicians be certified in their specialty. As a result, physicians who are motivated to advance their careers or pursue new opportunities may find that Board Certification is essential.

Another benefit to Board Certification is that in order to maintain Diplomate status, physicians are required to commit to continuing medical education and staying informed of new developments in their chosen specialties. This keeps physicians up to date on best healthcare practices and elevates the quality of care that the medical community as a whole provides. While not all patients know what goes into obtaining and maintaining Board Certification, they know it indicates that the physician is highly qualified and this provides a competitive advantage when someone is researching physicians in the community.

Board Certification also validates the expertise of the physician, not only to prospective patients or employers but to peers as well. While earning this credential isn’t always easy, there is a sense of accomplishment that comes with being recognized for being among the most qualified and respected physicians in the field.

To learn more about the process to becoming Board Certified, or to confirm the credentials of an ABPS physician in your community, contact ABPS today. The ABPS is the official certifying body of the American Association of Physician Specialists, Inc.®

Save the Date
House of Delegates & Annual Scientific Meeting
Innovation & Overcoming Challenges
June 10-15, 2022
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 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