Why Many Physicians Become Board Certified
For 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.
Medical Organizations Prioritize the Hiring of Board-Certified Physicians
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.
ABPS Certification Allows Physicians to Stay Updated on Medical Advancements
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.
Certification Is a Trusted Indication of a Physician’s Skill and Dedication
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.
Why the ABPS Stands Apart From Other Certification Boards
The ABPS is the only physician certification organization in the country that offers certification in emerging fields like family medicine obstetrics, disaster medicine, and integrative medicine. This distinctive approach reflects a commitment to recognizing and advancing evolving medical specialties. The ABPS also stands out by pioneering a pathway for career emergency medicine physicians, allowing those specializing in primary care to attain emergency medicine certification through an innovative fellowship program. This inclusive strategy addresses a gap in the certification landscape, distinguishing the ABPS as an organization dedicated to providing specialized recognition for exceptional physicians across a diverse range of specialties.
Eligibility Requirements of the ABPS
The ABPS believes that board certification should be reserved for physicians who can demonstrate an exceptional level of expertise in their specialty. That’s why we maintain stringent eligibility requirements. These requirements differ from specialty to specialty, but all ABPS Member Boards share certain requirements, including:
- Being in conformity with the Code of Ethics of the ABPS, being known in the community as an ethical member of the profession, and being an active practitioner in the specialty for which you’re seeking certification
- Having graduated from a recognized U.S., Canadian, or international allopathic or osteopathic college of medicine. International graduates must also hold a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) Certificate.
- Holding a valid and unrestricted license(s) to practice medicine in the United States, U.S. territories, or Canada.
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.®