Comprehensive Guide to American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) Certification

Introduction to ABOS

Established in 1934, the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) is a leading, non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the highest standards in orthopaedic care. As an autonomous entity, ABOS sets educational and practice standards for orthopaedic surgeons and evaluates their initial and ongoing qualifications. This rigorous process serves both the public and the medical community by upholding and advancing the quality of orthopaedic surgery.

Examination Overview

ABOS offers several examinations to assess orthopaedic surgeons at different stages of their careers:

1. Part I Examination: This foundational assessment evaluates a candidate’s comprehensive knowledge in orthopaedic surgery. It is a prerequisite for those seeking board certification.
2. Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Subspecialty Examination: Designed for those specializing in sports medicine, this exam tests in-depth expertise in managing musculoskeletal injuries and conditions related to athletic activity.
3. Surgery of the Hand Subspecialty Examination: Focused on the intricacies of hand surgery, this exam is for surgeons who wish to demonstrate their specialized skills in this area.
4. Recertification Examinations: These are intended for current board-certified orthopaedic surgeons who seek to renew their certification and affirm their continued competence in the field.

Registration and Scheduling

Eligibility and Fees: To schedule an examination, candidates must first:

• Pay the required examination fee.
• Receive confirmation of eligibility from ABOS.

For specific inquiries about the examination process or to resolve any issues, candidates should contact ABOS directly at 919-929-7103.

Scheduling Your Exam:

• Access the ABOS portal to book your examination appointment.
• Scheduling must be completed through Pearson VUE. For any issues, candidates can contact Pearson VUE customer service via chat or phone at 833-551-0242.

After scheduling, Pearson VUE will send a confirmation email detailing your test date, time, location, and directions.

Identification Requirements

Proper identification is crucial for entry into the examination room. Candidates must present:

• Primary ID: A government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
• Secondary ID: An ID with either a photo or a signature (e.g., credit card, social security card).

Ensure that the names on your registration and IDs match exactly. International candidates must bring a passport and a secondary ID. For detailed ID policies, refer to the Pearson VUE ID Policy PDF.

Accommodations

ABOS provides reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To request accommodations, visit ABOS Accommodations or email accommodations@abos.org well in advance of your examination date.

Results

Examination results are not available immediately upon completion. ABOS will provide results within the timeframe specified on their website. For up-to-date information on result publication dates, consult the ABOS examination calendar.

Preparing for Your Examination

Candidates should prepare thoroughly by familiarizing themselves with the exam format and content. Utilize available resources such as practice exams and tutorials provided by ABOS to enhance your readiness.

For more information, visit the official ABOS website or contact their support for any specific queries.

Conclusion

The ABOS certification process is a cornerstone of maintaining excellence in orthopaedic surgery. By adhering to the standards set by ABOS, orthopaedic surgeons can ensure their practice meets the highest levels of care and professionalism, benefiting both their patients and the broader medical community.