ABMS is the largest and most widely recognized physician-led specialty certification organization in the United States.

In 1948, these efforts were formalized through the establishment of the Liaison Committee for Specialty Boards (LCSB), which is made up of representatives from ABMS and AMA/CME.

Before physicians can become Board Certified, however, they must first: Once Board Certified, physicians maintain their medical specialty expertise by participating in a robust continuous professional development program called the ABMS Program for MOC.

The ABMS Program for MOC involves ongoing measurement of six core competencies defined by ABMS and ACGME:[3] These competencies, which are the same ones used in the ACGME's Next Accreditation System, are measured in the ABMS Program for MOC within a four-part framework:[4] All Programs for MOC implemented by the Member Boards measure the same six competencies within the same four-part framework.

Despite some variation in the activities, they are all built upon evidence-based guidelines, national clinical and quality standards, and specialty best practices.