The American Society of Anesthesiologists and the American Board of Anesthesiology announced July 22 that perioperative medicine will become a new standalone clinical topic within the ABA’s Content Outline for Initial Certification in Anesthesiology.
The update, developed at the request of ASA’s Center for Perioperative Medicine, expands the scope of information candidates can expect to see on board certification exams, according to a news release shared with Becker’s.
The revised outline will feed into upcoming ABA question-author writing assignments, with new perioperative medicine questions appearing on exams starting in 2028. The topic previously ran throughout the outline’s other sections, but the change gives it a dedicated area covering subjects such as chronic disease optimization, enhanced recovery after surgery pathways, prehabilitation, expanded geriatric evaluation and readmission reduction.
“We’re excited to have worked with the ABA to update the certification exam and further emphasize perioperative medicine as a new clinical topic,” said ASA President Patrick Giam, MD, FASA. “The inclusion of perioperative medicine in the ABA’s ADVANCED and In-Training Exams will expand training opportunities, encourage early interest, and prepare future anesthesiologists for success in the field.”
Perioperative medicine coordinates care for surgical patients from pre-op through recovery, bringing together anesthesiologists, surgeons and nurses to manage risk and support faster recovery.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.