Problems With Obtaining Certification From the ABIM? Recommendations For Physicians

Physicians who run into difficulty in obtaining certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) need to act to ensure that they properly exercise their rights to hearings and appeals. Because of the extremely serious repercussions adverse action by the ABIM might have on a physician's career and livelihood, it is critical to approach this from an educated perspective. Competent, experienced legal counsel is always recommended to assist in such matters. For example, in 2010, ABIM sanctioned 139 physicians for seeking out and sharing board exam questions with a test-prep company. The ABIM contended that this was a violation of the pledge test-takers sign before the computerized exam, and breached the ABIM's copyright, contract and intellectual property laws. Those who were found to be involved received serious sanctions. Many doctors had test results disallowed, certification denied and were prohibited from attempting to become certified for up to three (3) years. Employers and potential employers had to be notified. Jobs were lost and offers were rescinded. Hundreds of thousands of dollars in income were lost by some physicians as a result.

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