New research reveals that diagnostic radiologists in the United States will collectively spend nearly $984 million on certification throughout their careers. This amount encompasses approximately $208.5 million for initial board certification and an additional $775.3 million dedicated to maintaining their certification over a 35-year span. The analysis, published by the American Journal of Medicine, also examined other members of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), with about 90% of U.S. physicians currently holding board certification.
The total financial impact on physicians across all specialties reached nearly $3 billion for initial certification and $9 billion related to maintenance of certification (MOC) over their careers. Member boards have amassed a net surplus of $839 million, which has increased by 31% since 2014.
Researchers, led by Dr. Alan H. Daniels from Brown University, highlight the growing number of board-certified physicians and suggest that these expenses are expected to rise. They call for further investigation into whether the board certification process effectively reflects a physician’s professional competence and its relationship to patient care outcomes.
The study highlighted a significant increase in both active and continuing certifications among physicians between 2016 and 2023, with the number of board-certified doctors rising by 14% and continuing certifications increasing by 33%. The initial certification exams vary by specialty, with the average across all specialties featuring about 300 questions and a cost of approximately $2,942. For diagnostic radiology, the initial written exams total $3,200, with substantial pass rates of 95% and 86% for the two tests.
Continuing education requirements for radiologists entail completing specific exams every five years and accruing CME credits, with an annual fee of $340 for maintaining board certification. In the 2022 tax year, the certification framework generated a surplus of about $47 million, with the American Board of Radiology reporting total revenues of $18.4 million, mainly from fees.
Despite the significant financial burden, some physicians have raised concerns about the value of maintaining board certification, arguing the costs outweigh any proven benefits. Past legal challenges against certification boards have been made, although they have largely been dismissed.
Dr. Daniels and his colleagues suggest that better allocation of resources might enhance the educational experience for physicians and improve overall working conditions, ultimately leading to better patient care.
This study opens a conversation about the evolving structure of board certification and its implications for healthcare professionals. As the medical landscape changes, it may be crucial to revisit and reform the certification process to ensure it supports physicians effectively while keeping patient care at the forefront.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding the utility of board certification could lead to a more balanced approach, enhancing not just the certification process but also overall physician satisfaction and patient outcomes.