“With advances in medical science and technology occurring constantly, periodic assessments are critical.”
Philadelphia, PA, March 19, 2019 – The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) today asked a federal judge to dismiss a suit by four physicians alleging they have been harmed by ABIM’s requirements for continuing certification.
In its motion for dismissal, ABIM affirms the value of maintaining certification and dismantles plaintiffs’ assertions of violations of anti-trust laws and fraudulent activity under RICO. Ongoing valid assessment ensures that ABIM certification says something important and meaningful about the doctors who hold the certificate. ABIM board certification is not a requirement to practice medicine in any state, but many patients, hospitals, and insurers depend on the credential as a source of important information and assurance that care provided by the doctors who hold it is informed by the latest advances in science and technology.
“Plaintiffs may disagree with ABIM and members of the medical community on whether ABIM certification provides them value, but their claims have no basis in the law.” said Dr. Richard J. Baron, President and CEO of ABIM. “With advances in medical science and technology occurring constantly, periodic assessments are critical to ensure internists are staying current and continuing to meet high performance standards in their field.”
View a copy of ABIM's motion to dismiss.
ABIM Board Certified Doctors Make a Difference
Internists and subspecialists who earn and maintain board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) differentiate themselves every day through their specialized knowledge and commitment to continual learning in service of their patients. Established as an independent nonprofit more than 80 years ago, ABIM continues to be driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world. Visit ABIM's blog to learn more and follow ABIM on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. ABIM is a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties.