Hospice & Palliative Medicine Initial Certification

• Beginning in 2022, ABS diplomates seeking subspecialty certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine will complete the application and registration process through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). Those who achieve initial certification in HPM will become ABIM diplomates for this certification, and will maintain that certification through the ABIM.

Why is this change happening?

• Achieving and maintaining HPM certification through ABIM will enhance the HPM continuing certification process for diplomates and assist them in maintaining a high level of knowledge, judgment, and skills in HPM.
• The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) approved the ABS, along with the American Board of Gynecology (ABOG), American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR), American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and American Board of Radiology (ABR), to move from co-sponsoring boards to qualifying boards in HPM. This means that all HPM continuing certification standards and activities will move from these boards to ABIM.

How do I begin the initial certification process with ABIM for HPM?

• Diplomates seeking HPM certification will be able to register with ABIM via ABIM’s physician portal.

Will I still be certified by ABS?

• Diplomates will be certified by the ABIM in HPM. Diplomates can continue to maintain their general surgery certification or other ABS subspecialty certification(s) as long as they continue to participate and meet all requirements of the ABS Continuous Certification Program. It is the diplomate’s choice whether to maintain said certifications or allow them to expire.
• Note: Because ABS is no longer offering HPM as an ABS specialty, diplomates' certification status for HPM will no longer appear on the ABS website or verification of credentials. To access the verification of credentials tool for ABIM, please visit the ABIM website, or see the ABMS website www.certificationmatters.org.

Will I need to participate in continuing certification programs with both boards if I also choose to maintain a certification with my original board?

• Yes. To maintain ABS certification, diplomates must participate in the ABS Continuous Certification Program and complete all ongoing requirements when due. ABIM does have a reciprocity policy to help streamline continuing certification requirements. ABIM diplomates who are dual boarded by one or more of the other ABMS Member Boards can have the ABIM MOC points requirement waived.

Who can I contact at ABIM if I have additional questions or need assistance with HPM enrollment, fees, or other HPM-related matters?

• Email request@abim.org or call 1-800-441-ABIM.