National Board of Physicians and Surgeons
NBPAS promotes physician-led, evidence-based continuous board certification that supports lifelong learning without imposing unproven or burdensome requirements.
Learn about NBPAS CriteriaOur Background

Maintenance of Certification (MOC) begins
American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) initiates Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requirements, setting the stage for future challenges in physician certification.

Growing discontent over MOC inspires the start of NBPAS
Over 22,000 physicians sign a petition opposing MOC requirements. In response, renowned cardiologist Paul Teirstein, M.D., along with 20 other physician leaders launched a competing certification pathway now known as the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons (NBPAS).

Clinical Data fails to support MOC
Multiple studies find no strong evidence that MOC improves clinical outcomes, underlying what a majority of physicians already know to be true–MOC does not make better physicians or improve patient outcomes.

NBPAS meets National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) accreditation requirements for health plans

NBPAS meets Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (URAC) accreditation requirements for health plans

NBPAS meets all national accreditation requirements for hospitals including The Joint Commission (TJC) and Det Norske Veritas (DNV)
NBPAS continues to grow nationwide
Over 15,000 NBPAS-certified physicians across all 50 states. Certifying/recertifying over 400 physicians a month. Over 250 hospitals, health systems, telemedicine companies, and payers recognize NBPAS certification.
