Healthwise

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Board-certified specialists

Board-certified specialists are doctors who have advanced education, clinical training, and certification in a specific field. A subspecialist is a doctor who is trained or certified as a specialist and then receives additional training in a specific area (subspecialty).

A doctor becomes board-certified by completing training in a specialty area and passing an examination. To be board-certified, the doctor must complete the education required to get an MD (medical doctor) or DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) degree, complete 3 to 7 years of training in a residency program in the specialty field, and pass a written test given by the specialty board. Many specialty boards also require doctors to pass an oral test.

Specialty boards certify that doctors have met certain standards. Certification is voluntary; not all specialists are certified. There are 24 specialty boards currently recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the American Medical Association. Most specialties require recertification every 5 to 10 years.

Due to the threat of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are taking precautionary measures to protect our staff and patients. We are implementing a temporary NO VISITOR policy at this time. Only patients or patients and their guardians will be allowed into the office. Please note, this is not to inconvenience anyone! The virus is a very real threat and it is essential that we stay healthy in order to provide needed care for our patients. If you are sick, we ask that you CALL the office to speak with a nurse before you come in. The nurse will provide specific instructions for you. Please DO NOT enter the office if you are sick (upper respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, or flu like symptoms). We are closely monitoring the situation and will update you as circumstances change. Thank you for your understanding!!