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 Criteria

Our Background

MOC Requirements
April 2000

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.

NBPAS Launch
January 2015

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).

MOC Studies
May 2019

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.

NCQA Accreditation
March 2021

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

URAC Accreditation
April 2022

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

Joint Commission
July 2022

NBPAS meets all national accreditation requirements for hospitals including The Joint Commission (TJC) and Det Norske Veritas (DNV)

Today, 2025

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.

NBPAS Growth Trends