Timeline
The American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery administers primary certification exams, subspecialty certification exams and Osteopathic Continuous Certification requirements. The following stages represent key milestones in the process to obtain subspecialty board certification in Hand Surgery.
Written Exam
1. In order to take the Hand Surgery Subspecialty Written Exam, applicants must have attained primary certification:
- In Orthopedic Surgery from the AOBOS.
- In General Surgery or Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery from AOBS.
2. The Hand Surgery Subspecialty Written Exam is offered once per year, generally every fall. The application period opens in May, and applications are due on Aug. 15.
Become Board Certified
3. Upon successful completion of the exam, the AOBOS will recommend osteopathic subspecialty board certification in Hand Surgery to the AOA.
4. You will receive a letter from the AOA via email once certification has been approved.
5. You are now board certified. You will receive your certification in the mail within 90 days.
6. Your subspecialty certification in Hand Surgery will remain active for 10 years following date of issue provided you successfully complete Osteopathic Continuous Certification requirements.
Osteopathic Continuous Certification
7. Maintain active licensure.
8. Participate in lifelong learning and continuing medical education.
9. Complete the cognitive assessment.
10. Complete the practice performance assessment.