New subspecialty in female pelvic medicine approved

The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has approved physician certification in a new subspecialty: female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. The new subspecialty will be administered jointly by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Board of Urology.

The ABMS board of directors and assembly representatives approved the new subspecialty at the organization’s March 22 and 23 meetings in Washington, DC.

Beginning in 2013, physicians interested in being certified in a new subspecialty must have received primary certification by 1 of the member boards. In addition, fellowships in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery must be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, beginning in 2012.

To earn and maintain certification physicians must commit to participation in the ABMS Maintenance of Certification program created to promote lifelong learning and self assessment. Additional information is available at www.abms.org.