Why Physicians Should Certify in the Specialty Practiced
Consider all the steps physicians must take before practicing their specialty. First comes years of medical school, then rigorous residency training, then the comprehensive process for approval from their state’s medical licensing board. It’s no wonder the healthcare industry regards physician specialists with a keen sense of respect. But, for many physicians, there is yet one more step – board certification. They find that in order to differentiate themselves in today’s competitive healthcare environment, it’s best to become certified.
Board certification validates physicians’ expertise and serves as a reliable indicator to patients and the public at large that these specialists can be trusted to provide expert medical care in their field. Not all physicians are board certified in their specialty, however, and it’s not uncommon for patients to select one specialist over another based on board certification alone. This is perfectly understandable; in their time of need, patients want absolute assurance that their doctor can give them the specialized medical care they require.
As a nationally recognized choice for physician board certification that emphasizes exceptional health care, the American Board of Physician Specialties® (ABPS) believes physicians should always put patients first. To that end, we offer board certification in a wide range of specialties, from primary care fields such as family medicine and internal medicine to innovative specialties such as urgent care medicine and family medicine obstetrics.
Our certification process is demanding. Candidates must satisfy our eligibility requirements, complete a thorough application process, and pass stringent standardized exams. But, in achieving certification, physicians immediately stand apart. Hospitals and credentialing organizations understand perfectly well that these talented professionals, who are dedicated and motivated enough to take the extra step of becoming certified, are some of the most desirable and eminently qualified candidates in the job market.
In addition to being more marketable to employers, ABPS Diplomates receive the resources they need to stay up-to-date within their specialties and, through our required recertification testing, continually expand their base of skills and knowledge.
If you’re interested in joining a community of distinguished physicians who are committed to sharing best practices in their evolving specialties and improving medical care in general, contact the ABPS. We will be happy to provide you with information about our Member Boards, our eligibility requirements, and our certification process.