American Board of Internal Medicine
History
The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) was established in 1936 by the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Physicians (ACP) to standardize the certification process for internal medicine. The ABIM is one of the 24 member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
Purpose and Function
The ABIM's primary purpose is to enhance the quality of healthcare by certifying internists and subspecialists who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for excellent patient care in the field of internal medicine. The certification process involves a rigorous examination and assessment of the physician's understanding and abilities in internal medicine.
Certification Process
The certification process by the ABIM is a multi-step process that includes both an examination and an assessment of the physician's professional standing in the medical community. The examination is designed to test the physician's knowledge and understanding of internal medicine, while the assessment of professional standing is intended to ensure that the physician is in good standing with the medical community and adheres to the highest standards of medical ethics and professionalism.
Examination
The examination for certification in internal medicine is a comprehensive and rigorous test of the physician's knowledge and understanding of internal medicine. The examination covers a broad range of topics in internal medicine, including cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, hematology, infectious disease, nephrology, oncology, pulmonary disease, and rheumatology, among others.
Assessment of Professional Standing
The assessment of professional standing is an evaluation of the physician's professional behavior and ethics. This includes an assessment of the physician's standing with the medical community, adherence to the principles of medical ethics, and commitment to lifelong learning and improvement in the practice of medicine.
Maintenance of Certification
The ABIM also offers a Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program, which is designed to promote lifelong learning and the ongoing enhancement of the physician's clinical judgment and patient care skills. The MOC program includes periodic assessments of the physician's knowledge and skills, as well as requirements for ongoing professional development and improvement activities.
Controversies
The ABIM and its certification process have been the subject of controversy and criticism. Some critics argue that the certification process is overly burdensome and does not accurately reflect a physician's abilities or competence in the practice of medicine. Others have criticized the ABIM's financial practices and its relationships with the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.