History
2026
Based on years of research, ABEM develops the Certifying Exam. The new assessment replaces the Oral Exam.
2022
The Dr. Leon L. Haley, Jr., Bridge to the Future of Emergency Medicine Academy was created. This mentorship program honors the legacy of the late ABEM Board Member, Dr. Haley.
2021
MyEMCert is launched as an alternative to the high-stakes continuing certification exam, which is taken once every decade. This online platform encourages learning and are taken frequently. Learn more
2021
ABEM becomes accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) after meeting its quality standards as well as GuideStar’s Platinum Status for financial transparency. These recognitions are currently maintained.
2020
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oral Exam moved to a virtual platform. Physicians could continue to become certified at a time when the public needed them.
1989
ABEM was created to set a standard for the level of care patients should receive in Emergency Departments across the US. Overcoming resistance, ABEM’s second attempt to gain primary board status was approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Our hourglass logo represents this historical journey. Learn more
1989
ABEM offered recertification for the first time in 1989. To stay certified, physicians needed to complete specific requirements every 10 years, which included passing the ConCert Exam.
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1980
ABEM offers the first Oral Certification Exam. Physicians travel to Chicago to take the exam and demonstrate their ability to provide the highest standard of emergency care. Those who pass are the first to become ABEM certified.
1979
Despite the backlash, Emergency Medicine becomes the 23rd recognized medical specialty in the house of medicine.
1976
ABEM was incorporated in 1976. During this same period, there was increased interest in providing EM graduate training programs. Therefore, ABEM submitted an application to ABMS seeking primary board status, but it was denied.
1960s
Soldiers in Vietnam were receiving better emergency care than citizens back home. A few doctors from Alexandria, VA, and Pontiac, MI, recognized a dire need to improve conditions. They banded together to map out a vision for the future of emergency care called the Alexandria-Pontiac Plan.
Mid 1900s
WWII doctors brought their knowledge of trauma procedures back home. “Emergency Rooms” are created but are often put in hospital basements and run by anyone from interns to dermatologists.
