Timeline
The American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AOBOO-HNS) administers primary certification exams, subspecialty certification exams, and Osteopathic Continuous Certification requirements. The following stages represent key milestones in the process to obtain primary board certification in Ophthalmology.
Written Exam
1. In order to take the Ophthalmology Written Exam, applicants must have completed or be in the senior year of an AOA or ACGME-recognized residency in Ophthalmology.
2. The Ophthalmology Written Exam is offered once per year, generally every spring. The application period opens in the fall, and applications are due in April.
Oral Exam
3. The Ophthalmology Oral Exam is offered once per year, generally every spring. The exam is administered remotely with MonitorEDU/Paradigm.
Become Board Certified
4. Upon successful completion of all exam components, the AOBOO-HNS will recommend osteopathic board certification to the AOA.
5. You will receive a letter from the AOA via email once certification has been approved.
6. You are now board certified. You will receive your certification in the mail within 90 days.
7. Your primary certification in Ophthalmology will remain active provided you successfully complete Osteopathic Continuous Certification requirements.
Osteopathic Continuous Certification
8. Maintain active licensure.
9. Participate in lifelong learning and continuing medical education.
10. Complete the cognitive assessment.
11. Complete the practice performance assessment.