American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), established in 1934, is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the public and promoting excellence in the practice of psychiatry and neurology through certification. The ABPN is one of the 24 member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). It aims to establish and maintain standards of excellence in the medical specialties of psychiatry and neurology by certifying physicians who meet specific educational, training, and professional requirements.

History[edit | edit source]

The ABPN was founded in 1934, following the establishment of the American Board of Medical Specialties in 1933. Its creation was motivated by the need to provide a formal mechanism for identifying qualified specialists in psychiatry and neurology. Over the years, the ABPN has evolved to include subspecialties, reflecting advances in medical science and the development of new areas of practice.

Certification Process[edit | edit source]

The certification process by the ABPN involves several steps, including the completion of required training, passing an examination, and meeting licensure and professional standing criteria. The process is designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to provide high-quality care in psychiatry and neurology.

Initial Certification[edit | edit source]

Candidates for initial certification must successfully complete an accredited residency training program in psychiatry, neurology, or neurology with special qualification in child neurology. Following training, candidates must pass a written examination that tests knowledge relevant to the practice of psychiatry and neurology.

Maintenance of Certification[edit | edit source]

The ABPN also requires certified psychiatrists and neurologists to participate in its Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program. The MOC program is designed to promote lifelong learning and the continuous improvement of clinical skills. Participants must meet specific requirements in four areas: professional standing, lifelong learning and self-assessment, cognitive expertise, and performance in practice.

Subspecialties[edit | edit source]

The ABPN offers certification in several subspecialties for those who have completed additional training and passed a subspecialty examination. These subspecialties include:

Recognition and Accreditation[edit | edit source]

The ABPN is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) as the certifying board for psychiatry and neurology. Its certification processes are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), ensuring that they meet rigorous educational and professional standards.

Impact on the Medical Field[edit | edit source]

Certification by the ABPN is widely recognized as a mark of excellence in psychiatry and neurology. It assures patients, healthcare institutions, and the public that a physician has successfully completed an approved educational program and an evaluation process assessing their ability to provide quality care in their specialty.