Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process which serves multiple purposes for the trainee and the public.
Certification is
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one mission of the training program to produce trainees who meet board eligibility criteria;
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distinguishes a physician as someone with a distinct level of expertise;
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provides more opportunities when applying for employment;
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presents resources and tools by the ABMS;
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a commitment to life-long improvement for providing the best patient care; and
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elevates physicians into the ranks of doctors committed to the highest standards of healthcare.
For more information visit the American Board of Internal Medicine for specifics on board certification requirements.