American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine

American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine

The American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine (AOBEM) is a recognized specialty certifying board within the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). It is responsible for the comprehensive oversight of the training, education, and certification of emergency medicine physicians in the United States. Established to ensure the highest standards in the practice of emergency medicine, the AOBEM plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of care provided by osteopathic emergency physicians.

History

The AOBEM was founded in response to the growing need for a formal body to oversee the certification and standards of practice within the field of emergency medicine. Since its inception, the board has been instrumental in defining the qualifications for certification and recertification of osteopathic physicians specializing in emergency medicine. The establishment of the AOBEM marked a significant milestone in the recognition and development of emergency medicine as a distinct medical specialty.

Certification Process

The certification process by the AOBEM is rigorous and designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of physicians seeking certification in emergency medicine. The process includes both written and oral examinations, as well as a demonstration of clinical competence. Candidates for certification must also complete an AOA-approved residency in emergency medicine, ensuring that they have received comprehensive training in the field.

Initial Certification

To achieve initial certification, candidates must successfully pass the written examination, which covers a broad range of topics in emergency medicine. Following the written exam, candidates must also pass an oral examination, which assesses their clinical judgment and decision-making skills in real-life scenarios.

Osteopathic Continuous Certification

The AOBEM also offers Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) for its diplomates. This process requires certified physicians to engage in continuous learning and professional development activities, including passing a recertification examination every ten years. The OCC process ensures that AOBEM-certified physicians remain current in their knowledge and skills in emergency medicine.

Education and Training

The AOBEM sets standards for residency training programs in emergency medicine. These programs are designed to provide comprehensive education and hands-on experience in a wide range of emergency medical conditions and procedures. Residency training typically lasts three to four years and includes rotations in various medical specialties, such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and critical care.

Role in Emergency Medicine

The AOBEM plays a pivotal role in the advancement of emergency medicine as a specialty. Through its certification and recertification processes, the board ensures that osteopathic emergency physicians meet the highest standards of practice. The AOBEM also advocates for the recognition of emergency medicine as a vital component of the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of access to quality emergency care for all patients.

See Also

• Emergency medicine
• American Osteopathic Association
• Osteopathic medicine in the United States
• Medical education in the United States