AboutMissionOur mission is to promote the maintenance of certification for physicians in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of substance related disorders, to help address the enormous public health burden presented by tobacco, alcohol, and other substance use disorders and related conditions. HistoryFounded in 2007, the American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM) was the nation's first medical specialty board that certified addiction medicine physicians across a range of medical specialties. The board set standards for physician education, assesses physicians' knowledge, and requires and tracks life-long education. In October 2015, the American Board of Medical Specialties formally recognized Addiction Medicine as a multi-specialty subspecialty. In July 2019, the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) House of Delegates approved the development of a clinical practice pathway to facilitate subspecialty board certification in addiction medicine. Certification examinations in addiction medicine are now administered by the American Board of Preventive Medicine and the AOA. Distinguish Yourself as Board Certified in Addiction MedicineOfficial Designation for ABAM Diplomate StatusPhysicians awarded board certification through ABAM are required to use the following official language when designating their status as a Diplomate: "Diplomate of the American Board of Addiction Medicine" or "DABAM." |