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.

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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.

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
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