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Medical Education  |   November 2004
Board Certification of Osteopathic Physicians
Armando F. Ramirez
Author Notes
  • Mr Ramirez is director of the Division of Certification, Department of Education, American Osteopathic Association, Chicago, Ill. 
  • Address correspondence to Armando F. Ramirez, Department of Education, American Osteopathic Association, 142 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611-2864. 
Article Information
Medical Education / Preventive Medicine / Professional Issues
Medical Education   |   November 2004
Board Certification of Osteopathic Physicians
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, November 2004, Vol. 104, 485-492. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2004.104.11.485
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, November 2004, Vol. 104, 485-492. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2004.104.11.485
As managed care's role has grown in recent years, board certification's importance in the professional lives of physicians has grown correspondingly, as most managed care organizations require board certification for physicians participating in their plans. Hospitals increasingly are also making board certification a prerequisite to obtain staff privileges. Many physicians, of course, continue to become certified simply to obtain the professional recognition that accompanies completing the intensive requirements of board certification and to establish and legitimize areas of expertise. These are all compelling factors motivating more and more physicians to begin the process of certification. 
The public's perspective of board certification continues to play a significant role in certification's importance. As patients become more knowledgeable about their treatment options, they increasingly view board certification as a sign of quality and competence. The educated healthcare consumer prefers to be treated by board-certified physicians, and board certification, though a voluntary process, is becoming an indispensable designation for physicians. 
The American Osteopathic Association's Board Certification Program
The American Osteopathic Association's (AOA) board certification program began in 1939. The official AOA's certifying body, the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists BOS), through its 18 approved specialty boards, has been the primary certification provider for osteopathic physicians and has issued more than 26,700 General, Special Qualifications, and Added Qualifications certifications. (Figure 1) 
Figure 1.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
Figure 1.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
As of the end of August 2004, a total of 18,816 osteopathic physicians are actively certified by the AOA and hold a combined total of 21,883 active certificates. In 2003, a total of 1030 certificates were awarded in specialty and subspecialty areas (Table 1). In 2003, a total of 34 certificates of added qualifications were awarded (Table 2). 
Table 1
American Osteopathic Association Certification Awarded 1997 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Allergy and Immunology0200101
□ Anatomic Pathology1102100
□ Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Medicine0001010
□ Anesthesiology21432031181115
□ Cardiology141211913911
□ Child Neurology0000010
□ Child Psychiatry0000003
□ Dermatology141481481610
□ Diagnostic Radiology28532629211717
□ Emergency Medicine654510611087103120
□ Endocrinology3011201
□ Facial Plastic Surgery1000000
□ Family Practice (and OMT)†677610934546596686435
□ Forensic Pathology0000100
□ Gastroenterology13870286
□ General Vascular Surgery104127270
□ Gynecologic Oncology1100001
□ Hematology1310000
□ Infectious Diseases3330445
□ Internal Medicine9293118145146143157
□ Laboratory Medicine0301100
□ Maternal and Fetal Medicine0311012
□ Neonatology2000011
□ Nephrology24111429
□ Neurological Surgery1343161
□ Neurology0159811124
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM/Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment‡10201620242335
□ Nuclear Medicine0300010
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology28724380276153
□ Oncology2122117
□ Ophthalmology1023121081012
□ Orthopedic Surgery35317514394544
□ Otolaryngology1002121
□ Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery10341110131111
□ Pediatrics84521171818
□ Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation§111110111700
□ Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery2262130
□ Preventive Medicine/Aerospace Medicine2221224
□ Preventive Medicine/Public Health4102331
□ Preventive Medicine/Occupational Medicine/Environmental Medicine1317531045
□ Proctology11401
□ Psychiatry11171021161313
□ Pulmonary Diseases76410374
□ Radiation Oncology0001110
□ Radiology..................0
□ Reproductive Endocrinology1110020
□ Rheumatology3312125
□ Surgery (General)21305146114814
□ Thoracic/Cardiovascular Surgery5324110
□ Urological Surgery 6
 11
 9
 4
 2
 6
 3
Total Certificates Awarded
 1140
 1215
 1531
 1187
 1118
 1294
 1030
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Before July 1993, certificates were issued as General Practice. (Beginning April 15, 2000, all new family practitioners are being recommended for certification in Family Practice and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment [OMT].)
 ‡In 2000, the American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine ([OMM]; formerly known as the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in OMM) began issuing certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM.
 §Formerly named the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
View Large
Table 1
American Osteopathic Association Certification Awarded 1997 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Allergy and Immunology0200101
□ Anatomic Pathology1102100
□ Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Medicine0001010
□ Anesthesiology21432031181115
□ Cardiology141211913911
□ Child Neurology0000010
□ Child Psychiatry0000003
□ Dermatology141481481610
□ Diagnostic Radiology28532629211717
□ Emergency Medicine654510611087103120
□ Endocrinology3011201
□ Facial Plastic Surgery1000000
□ Family Practice (and OMT)†677610934546596686435
□ Forensic Pathology0000100
□ Gastroenterology13870286
□ General Vascular Surgery104127270
□ Gynecologic Oncology1100001
□ Hematology1310000
□ Infectious Diseases3330445
□ Internal Medicine9293118145146143157
□ Laboratory Medicine0301100
□ Maternal and Fetal Medicine0311012
□ Neonatology2000011
□ Nephrology24111429
□ Neurological Surgery1343161
□ Neurology0159811124
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM/Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment‡10201620242335
□ Nuclear Medicine0300010
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology28724380276153
□ Oncology2122117
□ Ophthalmology1023121081012
□ Orthopedic Surgery35317514394544
□ Otolaryngology1002121
□ Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery10341110131111
□ Pediatrics84521171818
□ Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation§111110111700
□ Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery2262130
□ Preventive Medicine/Aerospace Medicine2221224
□ Preventive Medicine/Public Health4102331
□ Preventive Medicine/Occupational Medicine/Environmental Medicine1317531045
□ Proctology11401
□ Psychiatry11171021161313
□ Pulmonary Diseases76410374
□ Radiation Oncology0001110
□ Radiology..................0
□ Reproductive Endocrinology1110020
□ Rheumatology3312125
□ Surgery (General)21305146114814
□ Thoracic/Cardiovascular Surgery5324110
□ Urological Surgery 6
 11
 9
 4
 2
 6
 3
Total Certificates Awarded
 1140
 1215
 1531
 1187
 1118
 1294
 1030
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Before July 1993, certificates were issued as General Practice. (Beginning April 15, 2000, all new family practitioners are being recommended for certification in Family Practice and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment [OMT].)
 ‡In 2000, the American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine ([OMM]; formerly known as the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in OMM) began issuing certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM.
 §Formerly named the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
×
Table 2
Certificates of Added Qualifications 1999 Through 2003 *
Certificate of Added Qualification and Specialty Board 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Critical Care Medicine-Anesthesiology00000
□ Pain Management-Anesthesiology87311
□ Dermatopathology-Dermatology000
□ MOHS Micrographic Surgery-Dermatology00031
□ Emergency Medical Services-Emergency Medicine03010
□ Sports Medicine-Emergency Medicine00010
□ Medical Toxicology-Emergency Medicine20200
□ Addiction Medicine-Family Physicians40100
□ Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine-Family Physicians00000
□ Geriatrics-Family Physicians141737611
□ Sports Medicine-Family Physicians884170
□ Addiction Medicine-Internal Medicine00000
□ Critical Care Medicine-Internal Medicine30605
□ Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology-Internal Medicine00000
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine02060
□ Interventional Cardiology-Internal Medicine000016
□ Sports Medicine-Internal Medicine02000
□ Addiction Medicine-Neurology/Psychiatry00200
□ Hand Surgery-Orthopedic Surgery002106
□ Dermatopathology-Pathology00000
□ Vascular and Interventional Radiology-Radiology†40110
□ Body Imaging-Radiology1030
□ Neuroradiology-Radiology15830
□ Nuclear Radiology-Radiology00200
□ Pediatric Radiology-Radiology10100
□ Sports Medicine-Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation0000...
□ Sports Medicine-Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine10010
□ Sports Medicine-Preventive Medicine01000
□ Surgical Critical Care-Surgery34610
□ Occupational Medicine11141034
□ Otolaryngic Allergy-Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology 3
 7
 0
 3
 0
Total
 64
 70
 107
 102
 34
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Previously called “Angiography and Interventional Radiology.”
View Large
Table 2
Certificates of Added Qualifications 1999 Through 2003 *
Certificate of Added Qualification and Specialty Board 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Critical Care Medicine-Anesthesiology00000
□ Pain Management-Anesthesiology87311
□ Dermatopathology-Dermatology000
□ MOHS Micrographic Surgery-Dermatology00031
□ Emergency Medical Services-Emergency Medicine03010
□ Sports Medicine-Emergency Medicine00010
□ Medical Toxicology-Emergency Medicine20200
□ Addiction Medicine-Family Physicians40100
□ Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine-Family Physicians00000
□ Geriatrics-Family Physicians141737611
□ Sports Medicine-Family Physicians884170
□ Addiction Medicine-Internal Medicine00000
□ Critical Care Medicine-Internal Medicine30605
□ Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology-Internal Medicine00000
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine02060
□ Interventional Cardiology-Internal Medicine000016
□ Sports Medicine-Internal Medicine02000
□ Addiction Medicine-Neurology/Psychiatry00200
□ Hand Surgery-Orthopedic Surgery002106
□ Dermatopathology-Pathology00000
□ Vascular and Interventional Radiology-Radiology†40110
□ Body Imaging-Radiology1030
□ Neuroradiology-Radiology15830
□ Nuclear Radiology-Radiology00200
□ Pediatric Radiology-Radiology10100
□ Sports Medicine-Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation0000...
□ Sports Medicine-Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine10010
□ Sports Medicine-Preventive Medicine01000
□ Surgical Critical Care-Surgery34610
□ Occupational Medicine11141034
□ Otolaryngic Allergy-Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology 3
 7
 0
 3
 0
Total
 64
 70
 107
 102
 34
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Previously called “Angiography and Interventional Radiology.”
×
Reentry Into the Certification Process
In February 1994, the AOA Board of Trustees directed all certifying boards to establish a mechanism for re-entry into the certification process for those physicians whose board eligibility had expired. Such a re-entry process may include, for example, the completion of a specific amount and type of continuing medical education credit before being allowed to sit for certification examination, and may differ by certifying board. This process does not re-establish board eligibility status, but does allow physicians to meet the requirements for sitting for certification examination. 
Conjoint Examinations
In July 1993, the AOA Board of Trustees directed the AOA Executive Director, in conjunction with the BOS, in conjunction with the BOS (the Bureau), to study the issue of creating a mechanism for the formation of conjoint boards in areas of overlapping specialties. This action was prompted by an application for the formation of a conjoint board of sports medicine. 
In its discussions, the Bureau noted that over time, there likely will emerge new areas of overlapping jurisdiction in osteopathic medicine in addition to sports medicine and that the formation of a new certifying board each time would not be practical. Instead, it was recommended that a mechanism for creating conjoint examinations be formed which would allow all appropriate specialty boards to participate if they desire. The Board of Trustees accepted this recommendation in February 1994 and approved the mechanism for creating conjoint examinations. 
The conjoint mechanism allows diplomates (those holding general certification) from participating boards to establish eligibility to sit for examination. To date, three conjoint examinations are offered (sports medicine, addiction medicine, and dermatopathology). 
Recertification Gains Momentum in the Osteopathic Medical Profession
Effective January 1, 1995, the AOA certifying boards were directed to offer a recertification mechanism to its diplomates. In conjunction with implementation of the recertification process, numerous boards have instituted time-limited certificates (that is, new certificates are issued with an expiration date). Effective January 1, 2004, AOA certifying boards that had not yet implemented a certificate time-dating policy, were required to make all newly issued certificates time-limited to 10 years or less. Fifteen of the 18 AOA certifying boards had already time-limited their certificates before January 1, 2004. Certificates issued before the requirement to time-limited certificates are valid for life. All diplomates are eligible to sit for recertification examinations, even if they hold a lifetime certificate (Table 3). 
Table 3
Recertification Statistics 1998 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Anesthesiology464003
□ Cardiology000008
□ Critcal Care Medicine-Internal Medicine0000011
□ Dermatology000000
□ Diagnostic Radiology0364231
□ Emergency Medicine61810111320
□ Family Practice and OMT121731172017
□ Gastroenterology0000013
□ Geriatric Medicine-Family Practice000010
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine000003
□ Hematology000003
□ Infectious Diseases000002
□ Internal Medicine0000061
□ Neonatology000002
□ Nephrology000002
□ Neurology/Psychiatry000000
□ Nuclear Medicine000000
□ Obstetrics/Gynecology000000
□ Oncology000007
□ Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery001000
□ Orthopedic Surgery024030
□ Pathology000000
□ Pediatrics0000010
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation00000
□ Preventive Medicine0011†1†0
0001‡1‡0
00001§0
□ Preventive Environmental Medicine200151
□ Proctology000400
□ Pulmonary Diseases000009
□ Neuroradiology001100
□ Rheumatology000003
□ Diagnostic Roentgenology000010
□ Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine010000
□ Surgery000010
□ Urological Surgery 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
Total
 24
 47
 58
 40
 70
 176
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Aerospace Medicine.
 ‡Public Health.
 §Occupational Medicine.
View Large
Table 3
Recertification Statistics 1998 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Anesthesiology464003
□ Cardiology000008
□ Critcal Care Medicine-Internal Medicine0000011
□ Dermatology000000
□ Diagnostic Radiology0364231
□ Emergency Medicine61810111320
□ Family Practice and OMT121731172017
□ Gastroenterology0000013
□ Geriatric Medicine-Family Practice000010
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine000003
□ Hematology000003
□ Infectious Diseases000002
□ Internal Medicine0000061
□ Neonatology000002
□ Nephrology000002
□ Neurology/Psychiatry000000
□ Nuclear Medicine000000
□ Obstetrics/Gynecology000000
□ Oncology000007
□ Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery001000
□ Orthopedic Surgery024030
□ Pathology000000
□ Pediatrics0000010
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation00000
□ Preventive Medicine0011†1†0
0001‡1‡0
00001§0
□ Preventive Environmental Medicine200151
□ Proctology000400
□ Pulmonary Diseases000009
□ Neuroradiology001100
□ Rheumatology000003
□ Diagnostic Roentgenology000010
□ Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine010000
□ Surgery000010
□ Urological Surgery 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
Total
 24
 47
 58
 40
 70
 176
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Aerospace Medicine.
 ‡Public Health.
 §Occupational Medicine.
×
Table 4 summarizes the current status of establishing time limits on the certificates issued by AOA certifying boards. 
Table 4
Certificate Time-Limiting by the American Osteopathic Boards
American Osteopathic Board of Certificate Time Limit, y Date Specialty Board Implemented Time Limiting
□ Anesthesiology10January 1, 2002
□ Dermatology10January 1, 2004
□ Emergency Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Family Practice8March 1, 1997
□ Internal Medicine10January 1, 1993
□ Neurology and Psychiatry10January 1, 1996
□ Nuclear Medicine10January 1, 1995
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology6January 1, 2003
□ Orthopedic Surgery10January 1, 1994
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine*10January 1, 1995
□ Ophthalmology†10January 1, 2000
□ Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery†10January 1, 2002
□ Pathology10January 1, 1995
□ Pediatrics7January 1, 1995
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation‡10January 1, 2004
□ Preventive Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Proctology10January 1, 2004
□ Radiology10January 1, 2002
□ Surgery
 10
 January 1, 1997
 *Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.
 †Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, now named the American Osteopathic Boards of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology.
 ‡Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
View Large
Table 4
Certificate Time-Limiting by the American Osteopathic Boards
American Osteopathic Board of Certificate Time Limit, y Date Specialty Board Implemented Time Limiting
□ Anesthesiology10January 1, 2002
□ Dermatology10January 1, 2004
□ Emergency Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Family Practice8March 1, 1997
□ Internal Medicine10January 1, 1993
□ Neurology and Psychiatry10January 1, 1996
□ Nuclear Medicine10January 1, 1995
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology6January 1, 2003
□ Orthopedic Surgery10January 1, 1994
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine*10January 1, 1995
□ Ophthalmology†10January 1, 2000
□ Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery†10January 1, 2002
□ Pathology10January 1, 1995
□ Pediatrics7January 1, 1995
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation‡10January 1, 2004
□ Preventive Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Proctology10January 1, 2004
□ Radiology10January 1, 2002
□ Surgery
 10
 January 1, 1997
 *Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.
 †Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, now named the American Osteopathic Boards of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology.
 ‡Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
×
As many of the early-issued, time-dated certificates are just beginning to expire, in 2003, AOA recertification saw an increase of slightly more than 150% over the number of osteopathic physicians recertified in 2002 (Table 3). This increase was driven primarily by the first large group of internal medicine specialists and internal medicine subspecialists taking the various recertification examinations provided by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine. In subsequent years, it is expected that recertification activity through the certifying boards of the AOA will continue to increase as many more of the time-dated certificates continue to expire and as recertification continues to become a requirement for managed care participation/credentialing and obtaining hospital privileges. 
Psychometric Assistance
As certification is so consequential, the certification process must be legally justifiable and valid for credentialers to accept it. 
Beginning in January 1994, the AOA began providing psychometric services to assist osteopathic medical certifying boards in the validation of their certification examinations. The AOA provides consultation and data analysis services to certifying boards and assists them in creating, scoring, and analyzing their examinations. These services provide psychometric guidance to a board in any step of the examination process, whether for a written, oral, or practical examination. 
Standards Review Committee Upholds High Standards of Quality
From the early beginnings of the AOA's certification program, the AOA has been concerned with the quality and standardization of its certifications. In 1992, the AOA Board of Trustees established a policy on uniform standards for all AOA certifying boards for test construction, evaluation, and test use and, in 1995, resolved that the BOS provide for rigorous statistical validation of the examinations of all AOA certifying boards. In 1997, the Guidelines for AOA Certification Examination Standards was formally approved, which describes the psychometric standards that all AOA examinations must meet. From this document, a plan for a formal evaluation process to assess the validity and reliability of each AOA certification examination was devised and, in June 2000, the first official reviews of three AOA certifying boards were conducted. This is an area that certainly brings value to osteopathic certification and those holding it. The review process is in essence a continuous improvement mechanism that in the end benefits not only the certifying board but the current and future diplomates as well. 
The format of the certifying board review is a self-study with completion of a report. These reports are then reviewed by the Standards Review Committee, which includes six elected members plus the BOS public member, two alternate members, and the AOA psychometrician (nonvoting). After the first cycle review, each board is reviewed again in 3.5 years. After the second review, the time interval between reviews is 5 years. At each BOS meeting, three certifying boards are reviewed and conjoint examinations are reviewed at the last meeting of the evaluation cycle. 
After review of the board's self-study report, the Standards Review Committee may make recommendation of compliance to the BOS, or they may defer making any recommendation at that time. Within 30 days of the Standards Review Committee's evaluation, the certifying board will receive a written evaluation, and examination activities found not in compliance with the standards will be clearly described to the Board. In the first evaluation cycle if the board was not approved by the BOS as compliant, the certifying board has 120 days from the date of the written evaluation to respond in writing with their action plan, specifying how the activities not in compliance will be addressed. For second and later review cycles, the submission of an action plan is not required. 
For the first review cycle, at the next committee [D2]meeting, the board's action plan is studied and any comments are forwarded to the certifying board. Usually, the board's action plan is formally accepted at this time or further information from the board may be requested. Within 1 year of the committee's appraisal of the action plan, the board must submit an updated report to the committee with evidence that shows the board is in compliance with the standards. 
For second and later review cycles, if any examination activities are found not to be in compliance with the standards, the board must submit an updated report within 1 year of the review date, along with acceptable evidence that shows that all the examination activities are in compliance with the standards. The board must submit its updated report at least 45 days in advance of the meeting when the committee will study it. 
The committee will then review the updated report and make a recommendation to the BOS for action. If the BOS action finds the board not in compliance, the BOS may impose a 1-year probation period and the practice affiliate will be notified of the board's probationary status. Certifying board failure to comply with the standards results in a BOS recommendation to the Board of Trustees that the certifying board's directors and/or members may be replaced and certification activities may be suspended until the board demonstrates compliance with the standards. At the end of the probation period, the board must then demonstrate compliance with the standards. 
The Committee began meeting in conjunction with the BOS meetings (January and June) starting in June 2000; the second review cycle began in January 2004. Subsequent review cycles start in January 2009 and occur every 5 years after that. At each meeting, three certifying boards will be reviewed. The schedule for the first and second evaluation is shown in Figure 2. 
Figure 2.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
Figure 2.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
In addition to ensuring the validity of the AOA certification process, the BOS is also beginning to explore how to enhance the certification process through incorporation of the seven core competencies into the process. The seven core competencies, already espoused by AOA-approved residency programs, are, and will be items of discussion at near future BOS leadership meetings. 
AOA Board of Trustees Establishes Task Force on Certification
In October 2002, the AOA Board of Trustees created a Task Force on Certification to review the overall operational structure of the AOA's certification program and to study future trends that may impact or change the certification process and demand. The Task Force on Certification will continue working closely with the AOA BOS on determining future steps to safeguard and promote AOA certification. Additionally, the task force will begin transitioning its functions to the newly created BOS Committee on Financial and Administrative Board Matters, which will monitor existing and upcoming certification trends in the osteopathic profession. 
Board of Trustees Approves New Certification Pathway for Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education–Trained/American Board of Medical Specialties Board–Certified Osteopathic Physicians
In July 2004, the AOA Board of Trustees approved a new certification pathway that provides a more streamlined and facilitative process for Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME-) trained/American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS-) board-certified osteopathic physicians to enter into the AOA certification process. To be eligible, candidates must have completed an ACGME residency program at least 5 years before application and hold ABMS certification in a primary specialty. The pathway is for AOA certification only and does not confer approval of first year of training as equivalent to an osteopathic internship (provided through Resolution 42(A/2000). For complete requirements and eligibility information, and to determine whether a particular specialty participates in this new pathway, inquiries can be referred to the AOA Division of Certification at (800) 621-1773, extension 8266 or 8105. 
Board Certification: Dynamic and Ever-Changing
As the needs of the health care environment continue to rapidly change, the AOA and its specialty boards will continue to adapt to meet the needs of the osteopathic physician and to protect the interests of the public. Board certification no doubt will continue to play a key role in the professional lives of osteopathic physicians well into the future. 
Figure 1.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
Figure 1.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
American Osteopathic Association certification terminology.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
Figure 2.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
Figure 2.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
Schedule for the first and second evaluation cycles.
View Original  |  Slide (.ppt)
Table 1
American Osteopathic Association Certification Awarded 1997 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Allergy and Immunology0200101
□ Anatomic Pathology1102100
□ Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Medicine0001010
□ Anesthesiology21432031181115
□ Cardiology141211913911
□ Child Neurology0000010
□ Child Psychiatry0000003
□ Dermatology141481481610
□ Diagnostic Radiology28532629211717
□ Emergency Medicine654510611087103120
□ Endocrinology3011201
□ Facial Plastic Surgery1000000
□ Family Practice (and OMT)†677610934546596686435
□ Forensic Pathology0000100
□ Gastroenterology13870286
□ General Vascular Surgery104127270
□ Gynecologic Oncology1100001
□ Hematology1310000
□ Infectious Diseases3330445
□ Internal Medicine9293118145146143157
□ Laboratory Medicine0301100
□ Maternal and Fetal Medicine0311012
□ Neonatology2000011
□ Nephrology24111429
□ Neurological Surgery1343161
□ Neurology0159811124
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM/Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment‡10201620242335
□ Nuclear Medicine0300010
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology28724380276153
□ Oncology2122117
□ Ophthalmology1023121081012
□ Orthopedic Surgery35317514394544
□ Otolaryngology1002121
□ Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery10341110131111
□ Pediatrics84521171818
□ Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation§111110111700
□ Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery2262130
□ Preventive Medicine/Aerospace Medicine2221224
□ Preventive Medicine/Public Health4102331
□ Preventive Medicine/Occupational Medicine/Environmental Medicine1317531045
□ Proctology11401
□ Psychiatry11171021161313
□ Pulmonary Diseases76410374
□ Radiation Oncology0001110
□ Radiology..................0
□ Reproductive Endocrinology1110020
□ Rheumatology3312125
□ Surgery (General)21305146114814
□ Thoracic/Cardiovascular Surgery5324110
□ Urological Surgery 6
 11
 9
 4
 2
 6
 3
Total Certificates Awarded
 1140
 1215
 1531
 1187
 1118
 1294
 1030
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Before July 1993, certificates were issued as General Practice. (Beginning April 15, 2000, all new family practitioners are being recommended for certification in Family Practice and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment [OMT].)
 ‡In 2000, the American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine ([OMM]; formerly known as the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in OMM) began issuing certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM.
 §Formerly named the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
View Large
Table 1
American Osteopathic Association Certification Awarded 1997 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Allergy and Immunology0200101
□ Anatomic Pathology1102100
□ Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Medicine0001010
□ Anesthesiology21432031181115
□ Cardiology141211913911
□ Child Neurology0000010
□ Child Psychiatry0000003
□ Dermatology141481481610
□ Diagnostic Radiology28532629211717
□ Emergency Medicine654510611087103120
□ Endocrinology3011201
□ Facial Plastic Surgery1000000
□ Family Practice (and OMT)†677610934546596686435
□ Forensic Pathology0000100
□ Gastroenterology13870286
□ General Vascular Surgery104127270
□ Gynecologic Oncology1100001
□ Hematology1310000
□ Infectious Diseases3330445
□ Internal Medicine9293118145146143157
□ Laboratory Medicine0301100
□ Maternal and Fetal Medicine0311012
□ Neonatology2000011
□ Nephrology24111429
□ Neurological Surgery1343161
□ Neurology0159811124
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM/Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment‡10201620242335
□ Nuclear Medicine0300010
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology28724380276153
□ Oncology2122117
□ Ophthalmology1023121081012
□ Orthopedic Surgery35317514394544
□ Otolaryngology1002121
□ Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery10341110131111
□ Pediatrics84521171818
□ Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation§111110111700
□ Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery2262130
□ Preventive Medicine/Aerospace Medicine2221224
□ Preventive Medicine/Public Health4102331
□ Preventive Medicine/Occupational Medicine/Environmental Medicine1317531045
□ Proctology11401
□ Psychiatry11171021161313
□ Pulmonary Diseases76410374
□ Radiation Oncology0001110
□ Radiology..................0
□ Reproductive Endocrinology1110020
□ Rheumatology3312125
□ Surgery (General)21305146114814
□ Thoracic/Cardiovascular Surgery5324110
□ Urological Surgery 6
 11
 9
 4
 2
 6
 3
Total Certificates Awarded
 1140
 1215
 1531
 1187
 1118
 1294
 1030
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Before July 1993, certificates were issued as General Practice. (Beginning April 15, 2000, all new family practitioners are being recommended for certification in Family Practice and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment [OMT].)
 ‡In 2000, the American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine ([OMM]; formerly known as the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in OMM) began issuing certificates in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and OMM.
 §Formerly named the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
×
Table 2
Certificates of Added Qualifications 1999 Through 2003 *
Certificate of Added Qualification and Specialty Board 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Critical Care Medicine-Anesthesiology00000
□ Pain Management-Anesthesiology87311
□ Dermatopathology-Dermatology000
□ MOHS Micrographic Surgery-Dermatology00031
□ Emergency Medical Services-Emergency Medicine03010
□ Sports Medicine-Emergency Medicine00010
□ Medical Toxicology-Emergency Medicine20200
□ Addiction Medicine-Family Physicians40100
□ Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine-Family Physicians00000
□ Geriatrics-Family Physicians141737611
□ Sports Medicine-Family Physicians884170
□ Addiction Medicine-Internal Medicine00000
□ Critical Care Medicine-Internal Medicine30605
□ Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology-Internal Medicine00000
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine02060
□ Interventional Cardiology-Internal Medicine000016
□ Sports Medicine-Internal Medicine02000
□ Addiction Medicine-Neurology/Psychiatry00200
□ Hand Surgery-Orthopedic Surgery002106
□ Dermatopathology-Pathology00000
□ Vascular and Interventional Radiology-Radiology†40110
□ Body Imaging-Radiology1030
□ Neuroradiology-Radiology15830
□ Nuclear Radiology-Radiology00200
□ Pediatric Radiology-Radiology10100
□ Sports Medicine-Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation0000...
□ Sports Medicine-Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine10010
□ Sports Medicine-Preventive Medicine01000
□ Surgical Critical Care-Surgery34610
□ Occupational Medicine11141034
□ Otolaryngic Allergy-Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology 3
 7
 0
 3
 0
Total
 64
 70
 107
 102
 34
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Previously called “Angiography and Interventional Radiology.”
View Large
Table 2
Certificates of Added Qualifications 1999 Through 2003 *
Certificate of Added Qualification and Specialty Board 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Critical Care Medicine-Anesthesiology00000
□ Pain Management-Anesthesiology87311
□ Dermatopathology-Dermatology000
□ MOHS Micrographic Surgery-Dermatology00031
□ Emergency Medical Services-Emergency Medicine03010
□ Sports Medicine-Emergency Medicine00010
□ Medical Toxicology-Emergency Medicine20200
□ Addiction Medicine-Family Physicians40100
□ Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine-Family Physicians00000
□ Geriatrics-Family Physicians141737611
□ Sports Medicine-Family Physicians884170
□ Addiction Medicine-Internal Medicine00000
□ Critical Care Medicine-Internal Medicine30605
□ Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology-Internal Medicine00000
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine02060
□ Interventional Cardiology-Internal Medicine000016
□ Sports Medicine-Internal Medicine02000
□ Addiction Medicine-Neurology/Psychiatry00200
□ Hand Surgery-Orthopedic Surgery002106
□ Dermatopathology-Pathology00000
□ Vascular and Interventional Radiology-Radiology†40110
□ Body Imaging-Radiology1030
□ Neuroradiology-Radiology15830
□ Nuclear Radiology-Radiology00200
□ Pediatric Radiology-Radiology10100
□ Sports Medicine-Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation0000...
□ Sports Medicine-Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine10010
□ Sports Medicine-Preventive Medicine01000
□ Surgical Critical Care-Surgery34610
□ Occupational Medicine11141034
□ Otolaryngic Allergy-Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology 3
 7
 0
 3
 0
Total
 64
 70
 107
 102
 34
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Previously called “Angiography and Interventional Radiology.”
×
Table 3
Recertification Statistics 1998 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Anesthesiology464003
□ Cardiology000008
□ Critcal Care Medicine-Internal Medicine0000011
□ Dermatology000000
□ Diagnostic Radiology0364231
□ Emergency Medicine61810111320
□ Family Practice and OMT121731172017
□ Gastroenterology0000013
□ Geriatric Medicine-Family Practice000010
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine000003
□ Hematology000003
□ Infectious Diseases000002
□ Internal Medicine0000061
□ Neonatology000002
□ Nephrology000002
□ Neurology/Psychiatry000000
□ Nuclear Medicine000000
□ Obstetrics/Gynecology000000
□ Oncology000007
□ Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery001000
□ Orthopedic Surgery024030
□ Pathology000000
□ Pediatrics0000010
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation00000
□ Preventive Medicine0011†1†0
0001‡1‡0
00001§0
□ Preventive Environmental Medicine200151
□ Proctology000400
□ Pulmonary Diseases000009
□ Neuroradiology001100
□ Rheumatology000003
□ Diagnostic Roentgenology000010
□ Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine010000
□ Surgery000010
□ Urological Surgery 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
Total
 24
 47
 58
 40
 70
 176
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Aerospace Medicine.
 ‡Public Health.
 §Occupational Medicine.
View Large
Table 3
Recertification Statistics 1998 Through December 2003 *
Specialty 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
□ Anesthesiology464003
□ Cardiology000008
□ Critcal Care Medicine-Internal Medicine0000011
□ Dermatology000000
□ Diagnostic Radiology0364231
□ Emergency Medicine61810111320
□ Family Practice and OMT121731172017
□ Gastroenterology0000013
□ Geriatric Medicine-Family Practice000010
□ Geriatric Medicine-Internal Medicine000003
□ Hematology000003
□ Infectious Diseases000002
□ Internal Medicine0000061
□ Neonatology000002
□ Nephrology000002
□ Neurology/Psychiatry000000
□ Nuclear Medicine000000
□ Obstetrics/Gynecology000000
□ Oncology000007
□ Ophthalmology/Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery001000
□ Orthopedic Surgery024030
□ Pathology000000
□ Pediatrics0000010
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation00000
□ Preventive Medicine0011†1†0
0001‡1‡0
00001§0
□ Preventive Environmental Medicine200151
□ Proctology000400
□ Pulmonary Diseases000009
□ Neuroradiology001100
□ Rheumatology000003
□ Diagnostic Roentgenology000010
□ Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine010000
□ Surgery000010
□ Urological Surgery 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
 0
Total
 24
 47
 58
 40
 70
 176
 *Totals are calculated by date of final approval by the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists.
 †Aerospace Medicine.
 ‡Public Health.
 §Occupational Medicine.
×
Table 4
Certificate Time-Limiting by the American Osteopathic Boards
American Osteopathic Board of Certificate Time Limit, y Date Specialty Board Implemented Time Limiting
□ Anesthesiology10January 1, 2002
□ Dermatology10January 1, 2004
□ Emergency Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Family Practice8March 1, 1997
□ Internal Medicine10January 1, 1993
□ Neurology and Psychiatry10January 1, 1996
□ Nuclear Medicine10January 1, 1995
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology6January 1, 2003
□ Orthopedic Surgery10January 1, 1994
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine*10January 1, 1995
□ Ophthalmology†10January 1, 2000
□ Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery†10January 1, 2002
□ Pathology10January 1, 1995
□ Pediatrics7January 1, 1995
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation‡10January 1, 2004
□ Preventive Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Proctology10January 1, 2004
□ Radiology10January 1, 2002
□ Surgery
 10
 January 1, 1997
 *Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.
 †Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, now named the American Osteopathic Boards of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology.
 ‡Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
View Large
Table 4
Certificate Time-Limiting by the American Osteopathic Boards
American Osteopathic Board of Certificate Time Limit, y Date Specialty Board Implemented Time Limiting
□ Anesthesiology10January 1, 2002
□ Dermatology10January 1, 2004
□ Emergency Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Family Practice8March 1, 1997
□ Internal Medicine10January 1, 1993
□ Neurology and Psychiatry10January 1, 1996
□ Nuclear Medicine10January 1, 1995
□ Obstetrics and Gynecology6January 1, 2003
□ Orthopedic Surgery10January 1, 1994
□ Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine*10January 1, 1995
□ Ophthalmology†10January 1, 2000
□ Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery†10January 1, 2002
□ Pathology10January 1, 1995
□ Pediatrics7January 1, 1995
□ Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation‡10January 1, 2004
□ Preventive Medicine10January 1, 1994
□ Proctology10January 1, 2004
□ Radiology10January 1, 2002
□ Surgery
 10
 January 1, 1997
 *Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Special Proficiency in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.
 †Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, now named the American Osteopathic Boards of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology.
 ‡Previously called the American Osteopathic Board of Rehabilitation Medicine.
×