American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery

American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery (ABCRS) is a U.S.-based independent, non-profit organization that establishes the standards for the practice of colon and rectal surgery and certifies surgeons who meet those standards. The ABCRS is one of the 24 member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), which is recognized as the premier entity for board certification of medical specialists in the U.S.

History[edit | edit source]

The ABCRS was founded in 1934, initially as the American Board of Proctology, reflecting the historical term for specialists in the field. In 1961, it changed its name to the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery to more accurately represent the scope of the specialty, which encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus.

Mission[edit | edit source]

The mission of the ABCRS is to protect the public and enhance the quality of colon and rectal surgery by maintaining high standards for the education, examination, and certification of surgeons as specialists in the field. This includes rigorous assessment of candidates' knowledge and skills, as well as ongoing maintenance of certification requirements to ensure that certified surgeons remain current in their knowledge and practice.

Certification Process[edit | edit source]

The certification process by the ABCRS involves several steps, including completion of an accredited residency in general surgery followed by an additional year of training in an ABCRS-approved colon and rectal surgery residency program. Candidates must then pass both a written qualifying examination and an oral certifying examination. The process is designed to assess a surgeon's knowledge, judgment, and ability to provide high-quality patient care.

Maintenance of Certification[edit | edit source]

Certified surgeons are required to participate in the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program, which is designed to promote lifelong learning and continuous improvement. The MOC program includes requirements for professional standing, lifelong learning and self-assessment, cognitive expertise, and evaluation of performance in practice.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The ABCRS plays a critical role in advancing the quality of care in the field of colon and rectal surgery. By setting high standards for certification and maintenance of certification, the ABCRS ensures that surgeons are well-qualified to provide specialized care to patients with diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. This contributes to improved patient outcomes and advances in the field.