The American Osteopathic Association has filed a lawsuit challenging a policy by the American Board of Internal Medicine that it claims “unfairly limits opportunities for both internal medicine physicians and residency and fellowship training programs.”
According to a Dec. 4 news release, the AOA said that ABIM’s policy blocks qualified residents and fellows from taking its board certification exams because their program directors are certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine rather than ABIM.
ABIM’s policy went into effect in 2024, and states that the board “requires verification of candidates’ clinical competence from an ABIM-certified program director.” Other American Board of Medical Specialties certifications may be accepted.
“When DOs are excluded, patients lose,” said AOA President Robert Piccinini, DO, in the release. “This policy removes skilled program directors from leadership, disrupts career paths and limits mentorship for young physicians. At a time when the nation faces a growing physician shortage, ABIM’s actions close essential training pathways that ultimately hurt patient care. We will continue to defend osteopathic physicians and stand up for a medical education system that recognizes excellence.”
The AOA also reports that osteopathic medicine is experiencing “remarkable growth,” noting that the profession currently comprises more than 200,000 DOs and medical students, the largest the workforce has been in 150 years. Additionally, nearly 70% of DOs are under age 45, according to the release, making the profession “well positioned” to help address the nation’s projected physician shortfall.
Becker’s has reached out to ABIM and will update this article as more information becomes available.
