About the Board

The American Board of Phlebology (ABPh) was established in 2007 to:

1) Improve the standards of medical practitioners and the quality of patient care related to the treatment of venous disorders and all aspects of venous disease
2) Serve the public and the medical profession by establishing initial and continuing qualifications for certification and maintenance of certification as physician specialists in the practice of phlebology
3) Examine physician candidates for certification and maintenance of certification in the practice of phlebology
4) Establish educational standards for teaching and training programs in phlebology
5) Maintain a registry of individuals who hold certificates issued by the Board

The ABPh is an independent non-profit organization organized under the laws of the state of Illinois for scientific and educational purposes. No part of its net earnings shall inure to the benefit of any director, officer, or other individual.

It is not the purpose of the Board to define requirements for membership on hospital staffs, to gain special recognition or privileges for its diplomates in the practice of phlebology or to define the scope of phlebology practice. The Board does not define who may or may not practice phlebology. It is neither a source of censure nor an entity for the resolution of ethical or medico-legal issues.

In spring 2008, the ABPh will administer the first Board Certification Exam in phlebology. The establishment of a Board Certification Exam brings recognition to both the field of phlebology and those providers in the field who have the knowledge, skills, and experience to provide quality care to phlebology patients. The ABPh will also maintain a registry of individuals who hold certificates issued by the Corporation. The American Board of Phlebology is not yet a Member Board of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS); however, our certification exam is based on standards set by the ABMS.

Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process. While medical licensure sets the minimum competency requirements to diagnose and treat patients, it is not specialty specific. Board certification demonstrates a physician’s commitment and expertise in a particular specialty and/or subspecialty of medical practice.