Certification Matters

An allergist (allergy/immunology physician) is an expert trained to take a detailed medical history and appropriately interpret allergy/immunology test results. After completing medical school and graduating with a medical degree, these physicians go through an additional three years of training in either internal medicine or pediatrics and have passed the certification exam of either the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) or the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). With that foundation, they complete subsequent specialized training of at least two more years in an allergy/immunology fellowship program. Board certification in allergy/immunology is awarded by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI) only after successful completion of another rigorous certification exam. Patients who see a board-certified allergist can rest assured that he or she has the necessary medical knowledge, judgment, professionalism and clinical skills to provide safe, effective patient care.