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Boards of Certification

The Boards of Certification (BOCs) are affiliates of the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) and are recognized as certifying bodies meeting the standards required for affiliation. The BOCs were founded to develop and administer clinically- relevant specialty certification examinations and to award certification to qualified physicians who meet established requirements.

The BOCs issue certificates to successful candidates, who may present themselves to the public as specialists and Diplomates of their specialty.

Though certification does not guarantee the competence of individuals, the affiliated Boards of Certification of the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS), attests that certified members have met minimum education and experience requirements for various certification levels. Each certified member also acknowledges adherence to the ABPS Code of Ethics.