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The American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) administers a certification process for physicians who seek recognition of their accomplishments in obesity medicine. Physicians who complete the ABOM certification process in obesity medicine are designated Diplomates of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

This sub-specialty requires competency in and a thorough understanding of the treatment of obesity and the genetic, biologic, environmental, social, and behavioral factors that contribute to obesity. The obesity medicine physician employs therapeutic interventions including diet, physical activity, behavioral change, and pharmacotherapy. The obesity medicine physician utilizes a comprehensive approach, and may include additional resources such as nutritionists, exercise physiologists, psychologists and bariatric surgeons as indicated to achieve optimal results. Additionally, the obesity medicine physician maintains competency in providing pre- peri- and post-surgical care of bariatric surgery patients, promotes the prevention of obesity, and advocates for those who suffer from obesity.

There are currently over 850 ABOM Diplomates in the United States and Canada. Please visit abom.org/certification-verification/ to find a complete listing of ABOM Diplomates. About 80% of ABOM Diplomates have their primary training in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and/or Pediatrics. Many ABOM Diplomates incorporate the treatment of obesity in the context of their primary care practices and/or in partnership with bariatric surgical centers. Most ABOM Diplomates devote at least 50% of their medical practice to the treatment of obesity.

The 2014 Certification Examination for Obesity Medicine Physicians will be administered December 6 – December 13, 2014 at Computer Based Testing Centers throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more about physician eligibility requirements and the certification process please visit www.abom.org.