American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)

he American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1933 to represent 24 broad areas of specialty medicine.

Process

• It is the largest physician-led specialty certification organization in the United States.
• ABMS Member Boards have a rigorous process for evaluating and certifying medical specialists, but this process is not reviewed by an independent third party.

Specialties

• The boards certify specialists in over 150 medical specialties and subspecialties, and more than 80% of practicing physicians in the United States are certified by one or more of the ABMS Member Boards.

Initial certification

The certification process for ABMS member boards is rigorous, and it involves education and training requirements, as well as written and oral examinations. Once a physician is certified, they must meet continuing education requirements and periodically take re-certification examinations to maintain their certification. Board certification is voluntary, but it is sometimes required for certain types of medical practice or to be eligible for certain types of insurance reimbursement.

MOC program

• ABMS also has a Maintenance of Certification (ABMS MOC) program to support lifelong learning for physicians and collaborates with other medical organizations to set standards for medical education and accreditation of residency programs.
• The MOC program provides physicians with a structured approach to enhance patient care and improve patient outcomes.

External links

• Official website

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