Setting the highest certification standards for psychiatrists and neurologists since 1934

Neuromuscular Medicine

Deadlines, Fees and Content for Initial Certification in Neuromuscular Medicine

*Application deadlines are at 11:59 p.m. CST.

Neuromuscular Medicine History and Statement of Principles

The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR), in concurrence with the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), established a joint Committee on Certification in the Subspecialty of Neuromuscular Medicine on December 2, 2005. This was done to officially establish the field of neuromuscular medicine as a definite area of subspecialization in neurology and to provide a means of identifying properly trained and experienced physicians in neuromuscular medicine.  The first examination was administered in 2008.

The actual mechanics of certification of qualified candidates have been delegated by the Board to the committee, which operates under the supervision of and in accordance with the policies of the Board.

The examination will be administered to candidates from the ABPN and ABPMR at the same time in the same testing centers. Participation in the certification program is voluntary. Certification is not required of practitioners in this field, and the certificate does not confer privilege to practice.

Currently, there is no limit on the number of times an applicant may apply to take the initial certification in the subspecialty of neuromuscular medicine examination.  For Board eligibility requirements, please visit:  Board Eligibility (abpn.org).


 

Specific Training Requirements

Applicants for certification in neuromuscular medicine must be certified by the Board in neurology or neurology with special qualification in child neurology by December 31 prior to the examination administration. All applicants, other than those initially approved during the practice pathway period (2008-2012), are required to submit documentation of successful completion of one year of ACGME-accredited fellowship training in neuromuscular medicine that did not begin before the time general residency training in neurology or child neurology, including time spent in combined training programs, was completed. Training or exposure to neuromuscular medicine given to neurology or child neurology residents as part of the basic neurology or child neurology curriculum does not count toward the one year of training. All training requirements must be met no later than July 31 of the year of the examination.

The required one year of specialized training in neuromuscular medicine may be completed on a part-time basis, as long as it is not less than half-time; credit is not given for periods of training lasting less than one year, except under special circumstances that must be approved by the ABPN Credentials Committee. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the applicant to provide detailed documentation from the respective training directors that outlines training content, duties, and responsibilities. Each case is considered on an individual basis and documentation must be submitted to the Board prior to the start of training for special consideration.

Currently, ABPN does not accept training from international programs.