adolescent medicine subspecialty board certification
Advanced medical certification requiring fellowship training in adolescent medicine following completion of pediatrics, internal medicine, or family medicine residency. Administered by the American Board of Pediatrics or American Board of Internal Medicine.
Full Definition
Adolescent medicine subspecialty board certification is a specialized medical credential that requires completion of an ACGME-accredited fellowship in adolescent medicine, typically lasting one year after residency training in pediatrics, internal medicine, or family medicine. The certification examines competency in the unique physical, psychological, and social aspects of adolescent healthcare, including reproductive health, substance abuse, eating disorders, and transition of care. Board certification is administered through the American Board of Pediatrics (for pediatric pathway) or American Board of Internal Medicine (for internal medicine pathway). This certification distinguishes specialists who focus exclusively on the 10-25 year age group from general practitioners who may see adolescents as part of broader practice.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from general board certification in pediatrics or internal medicine; this requires additional fellowship training.
In Context
- "The clinic requires all providers to have adolescent medicine subspecialty board certification or be board-eligible." — Healthcare policy document
- "Dr. Smith completed her fellowship and obtained adolescent medicine subspecialty board certification through the American Board of Pediatrics." — Professional biography