Obtaining a subspecialty board certification in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) is the gold standard for a female fertility specialist. Why is the gold standard important for patients seeking female fertility care? A board-certified REI means that patients are working with a doctor who is not only board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology (Ob/Gyn) but also has extensive training and experience in the field of female fertility and practices with the utmost patient care and safety standards.
Here are the top 3 reasons to select a double-board certified female fertility specialist:
Held to the Highest Standards
The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) which issues the certification in Ob/Gyn and REI is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). The ABMS sets rigorous and stringent criteria for board certification in order to ensure that physicians are ready to practice safely with the highest standards.
Earning a subspecialty REI certification is a long and arduous process that takes 7 years of specialized training after completing medical school:
Before a physician can consider REI subspecialty certification, earning board certification in Ob/Gyn is required. After 4 years of Ob/Gyn residency, followed by passing a post-residency written exam, 2 years of independent practice, and finally passing the oral exam, a physician becomes a board-certified Ob/Gyn. Afterward, for a physician to earn the title of being board-certified in REI requires the following: completing 3 years of fellowship training followed by passing the written exam, then practicing time at an independent clinic, and finally last but not least, passing the oral exam in REI.
Continual Education and Up-to-Date Knowledge
Working with a double board-certified specialist means working with a physician who is constantly learning and prioritizes staying up-to-date on the latest research and treatment options. To maintain board certification, a doctor must meet annual Maintenance of Certification programs program requirements that have been set forth by ABOG. This continual education process ensures the provider maintains their level of knowledge and practices the most current evidence-based care and safety standards.
Patient Safety
Being board-certified in REI means that a female fertility specialist will approach patients’ family-building goals with patient care and safety with the utmost importance. For example, a patient can expect the likelihood of fewer medical errors/complications and better communication, which can improve patient care and outcomes.
When selecting a female fertility specialist, choosing a board-certified physician in both Ob/Gyn and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility ensures a patient that the physician has undergone and maintained the highest training and standards to provide excellent female fertility care. It is recommended that anyone who is under the age of 35 who attempts to become pregnant for one year without success, or anyone 35 and older who attempts to become pregnant for 6 months without success, should consider visiting a fertility specialist. Fertility treatments can be overwhelming, but working with a double board-certified specialist early in the process can lead to better care and outcome.