Registered symbol of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association that is used to identify all Blue Shield plans. It depicts a caduceus that is the Greek healing symbol over a shield in blue that signifies protection. The Buffalo, New York, plan designed the logo in 1929 based on the U.S. Army Medical Corps insignia. Also see Blue Cross logo .

Corporation that administers a voluntary prepayment medical/surgical/hospital program in a specific region and operates under the membership standards of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA). Individuals or groups that join the plan are called members or subscribers and providers of service that contract with the Blue plan are called member physicians . Also see Blue Cross plan .

Certification in a medical specialty based on the physician’s proof of experience and expertise. If a physician wishes to practice a specialty, board certification is not a requirement. A doctor who meets the criteria to apply for board certification is referred to as “board eligible.” Also see board eligible .

Statement issued by a medical specialty board or association verifying that a physician or other health professional meets professional standards after having passed an examination. Also called boarded or diplomate .

Description of a physician who is entitled and qualified and who meets the criteria to take the specialty board examination (e.g., has graduated from an approved medical school, has completed specific training, has practiced medicine for a designated time period). Also called board prepared .

Professional organization of coders, clinicians, and compliance professionals dedicated to the evaluation, recognition, and advancement of professional medical coders within physician practice, facility, and postacute settings. BAMC offers certification as Advanced Coding Specialists (ACS) to physician and facility coders who successfully complete the qualifying examination. Website: www.advancedmedicalcoding.com