American Board of Thoracic Surgery

American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) is a medical specialty board in the United States that certifies physicians practicing thoracic surgery. Thoracic surgery involves the operative management of disorders of the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other organs in the chest. The ABTS is an independent, non-profit organization that works to ensure the highest standards of education, training, and knowledge among thoracic surgeons.

History

The American Board of Thoracic Surgery was established in 1948 to improve the quality of thoracic surgery care by setting professional standards for thoracic surgery education and practice. Since its inception, the ABTS has been dedicated to the certification and continuing education of thoracic surgeons to ensure the public has access to high-quality surgical care.

Certification Process

The certification process by the ABTS involves several steps, including the completion of an accredited residency program in thoracic surgery, passing a written examination that tests knowledge in thoracic surgical disciplines, and successfully completing an oral examination that assesses the candidate's clinical judgment and ability to manage complex surgical cases. Once certified, thoracic surgeons must participate in the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program to ensure they remain up-to-date with the latest advancements in their field.

Maintenance of Certification

The Maintenance of Certification program by the ABTS is designed to promote lifelong learning and continuous improvement among board-certified thoracic surgeons. The MOC program includes requirements for professional standing, lifelong learning and self-assessment, cognitive expertise, and evaluation of performance in practice.

Importance of ABTS Certification

Certification by the ABTS is recognized as a significant credential that signifies a surgeon's commitment to excellence in the field of thoracic surgery. It assures patients, hospitals, and other healthcare entities that the surgeon has met rigorous standards of education, training, and knowledge in thoracic surgery.

Related Organizations

The ABTS works closely with other professional organizations, including the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS), and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), to advance the field of thoracic surgery and improve patient care.