Certification and maintenance of certification in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery.

The American Board of Otolaryngology is the organization responsible for certifying physicians who have met the Board's professional standards of training and knowledge in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. The American Board of Otolaryngology monitors the progress of residents through training and conducts examinations for board certification. Quality of care initiatives throughout medicine have stimulated the Board to develop a maintenance of certification process with a 10-year, time-limited certification. Maintaining certification requires participation in the Board's process, which includes evaluation of professional standing, continuing education and self-assessment, cognitive expertise, and performance in practice. The ultimate goal of the American Board of Otolaryngology's activities is improved patient care.