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About the ABO
Founded in 1916, the American Board of Ophthalmology is an
independent, non-profit organization responsible for certifying
ophthalmologists (eye physicians and surgeons) in the United States. The
ABO was the first American Board established to certify medical
specialists and is one of 24 specialty Boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the American
Medical Association.
The mission of the American Board of Ophthalmology is to serve the
public by improving the quality of ophthalmic practice through a
certification and maintenance of certification process that fosters
excellence and encourages continual learning.
Board certification intends to provide assurance to the public and the
medical profession that a physician has successfully completed an
evaluation designed to assess the knowledge, experience and skills
requisite to the delivery of high standards of patient care in
ophthalmology.
Continued maintenance of Board certification is meant to assure that
members of the profession continue their education, keep current in
information and skills, and practice in a contemporary manner.
It is not the purpose of the Board to define the requirements for
membership to hospital staffs or to gain special recognition or
privileges for its diplomates in the practice of ophthalmology. Neither
is its purpose to state who may or may not practice ophthalmology nor to
define the scope of ophthalmic practice. The Board does not seek to
obtain special privileges for its diplomates over other qualified
physicians. The certificate of the Board does not confer any academic
degree, legal qualifications, privilege or license to practice
ophthalmology.
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