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

Board established by the Social Security Act to oversee the financial operations of the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund. The Board is composed of six members, four of whom serve automatically by virtue of their positions in the federal government: the Secretary of the Treasury, who is the Managing Trustee; the Secretary of Labor; the Secretary of Health and Human Services; and the Commissioner of Social Security. The other two members are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate to serve as public representatives. The Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services serves as Secretary of the Board of Trustees.