American Board of Radiology

American Board of Radiology (ABR) is a professional organization in the United States dedicated to maintaining high standards for the practice of radiology, radiation oncology, and medical physics through certification and continuing education of its members. Established in 1934, the ABR's primary mission is to certify that its diplomates demonstrate the requisite knowledge, skill, and understanding of their disciplines for the benefit of patients.

History

The American Board of Radiology was founded in 1934, in response to the growing need for a standardized system of evaluating the qualifications of radiologists. The formation of the ABR was part of a broader movement in the early 20th century to establish boards across various medical specialties to ensure a high level of professional standards.

Certification Process

The ABR offers certification in Diagnostic Radiology, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Oncology, and Medical Physics. The certification process involves a combination of written and oral examinations designed to assess the knowledge and skills of candidates. The process is rigorous and is intended to ensure that those who achieve certification are highly qualified in their field.

Initial Certification

Initial certification requires successful completion of both a written qualifying examination and an oral certifying examination. Candidates must also complete a residency program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) in their specialty.

Maintenance of Certification

The ABR also requires diplomates 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. It includes requirements for professional standing, lifelong learning and self-assessment, cognitive expertise, and practice quality improvement.

Governance

The governance of the ABR includes a board of trustees composed of distinguished professionals from the fields of radiology, radiation oncology, and medical physics. The board oversees the strategic direction of the organization, policy development, and the administration of its certification and MOC programs.

Impact

The ABR's certification is recognized as a significant achievement in the radiological sciences and is often a requirement for employment in hospitals and other medical facilities. The organization's efforts to maintain high standards in the profession through its certification and MOC programs contribute to the quality of patient care and the advancement of the field.

Controversies

Like many professional certification boards, the ABR has faced criticism over the years. Some of the controversies have centered around the cost of certification and MOC fees, the relevance of the MOC process, and the stress associated with the examination processes. The ABR has made efforts to address these concerns by revising its MOC program and seeking feedback from its diplomates.