Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process which serves multiple purposes for the trainee and the public.

Certification is

• one mission of the training program to produce trainees who meet board eligibility criteria;
• distinguishes a physician as someone with a distinct level of expertise;
• provides more opportunities when applying for employment;
• a commitment to life-long improvement for providing the best patient care; and
• elevates physicians into the ranks of doctors committed to the highest standards of healthcare.

For more information visit the American Board of Pathology for specifics on board certification requirements.