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What is a Board Certified Fertility Specialist?

Board_certified_fertility_specialistOne of the single most important things to look for in a fertility clinic is the presence of a Board-Certified staff. Much like you would in other medical fields or a variety of life situations (buying a new home, boarding a plane, or even hiring a fitness instructor) you want to put your trust in someone who has the proper credentials and qualifications.

So when you begin your search to find the right fertility clinic for you, start by only considering those with a Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist (fertility specialist) on their staff. Being Board Certified is actually quite the achievement in the medical field and it shows that the fertility specialist has taken their time to become an expert in their craft, meaning it is more likely that you receive the quality care and expertise that you deserve.

In order to help you better understand the importance of working with a board certified fertility specialist, we put together some answers for three commonly asked questions below.

How does a doctor become Board Certified?

A Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist has to complete a four year residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology. This is followed by a (currently three year) fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. To become board certified, a physician must then pass a written test to "demonstrate that he or she has obtained the special knowledge and skills required for medical and surgical care of women," according to the Board. There are also yearly reading assignments each year to encourage the physician to keep learning.

The physician must also show that they have experience in treating women, and then pass an oral examination. This examination, given by a team of national medical experts and leaders, tests the knowledge and skills of the physician in regards to identifying and treating various symptoms and conditions.

Finally, the team issuing the oral exam reviews the patients that the physician treated over the past year.

There are currently only about a 1,000 Board Certified fertility specialists in the world.

Who is the Board?

The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) is an independent, non-profit organization that certifies both obstetricians and gynecologists. ABOG was founded in 1927 and is one the four founding members of the twenty-four specialty boards that are recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

What is Board Recertification?

Board recertification is the ongoing process in which physicians are evaluated by a board of medical experts. If certified, this means that the physician has gone through an exacting list of requirements that show his or her knowledge of their field as well as their commitment to continuing their education.

The recertification is an ongoing process that includes a written exam every six years. The exam covers:

  • Obstetrics
  • Gynecology
  • Infertility
  • Vitro Fertilization

While working with a board certified fertility specialist is important, there are some other things to look for in a clinic as well. Find out what else you should look for when searching for the right fertility clinic for you.

To see a board-certified fertility specialist who is qualified to determine and provide the treatment for you, make an appointment at one of InVia’s four convenient Chicagoland locations.

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Todd Mensik

Todd Mensik

Todd Mensik is the Practice Representative at InVia Fertility. He is passionate about making sure that the overall experience of each and every patient exceeds expectations. He also works with the referring physician to ensure that the transition into our office is seamless.

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