Was Does It Mean when Board Certification Has Expired?
asked 1 year ago by Flowerz2 in michigan
Latest answer by Steven Wallach, MD
Question viewed 194 times
Tags: doctor referral
I have been to 3 consults for tummy tuck to try and find right surgeon and staff for me. I researched the 3 drs to check for board certs. I found that 1 dr's board cert and ambulatory cert expired 5 years ago. The MD lic. is active. I put down money for a surgery date because I really like the dr and staff. I can't find any info on why his certs have lapsed. Should I stay away? Is ok for me to call the practice and ask? I am upset and now will be at a lost for the deposit I put down. Plz help
4 answers to Was Does It Mean when Board Certification Has Expired?
+1
Board certification in plastic surgery
Board certification in palstic surgery is important. The older surgeons about 50 and older were "grandfathered" in so that they nevefr have to take recertification exams. The younger group has to recertify every 10 years.
+1
Expired board certification and operating room certification
There are really 2 concerns here one being board certification of the surgeon and the other being certification of the surgery center. It is one thing if the doctor was board certified and then it lapse, another if he/she never took or passed the certifcation, still another if the surgeon took it and recertified and lastly if the surgeon is older and has the certificate that does not expire (is good for life). In the last case the doctor may not have the maintenance of certifcation but...
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Aaron Stone, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
+1
Board Certification in Plastic Surgery!
This is a decision only you can make. My opinion is that (and I am current on my certifications, and re-certifications) the certification is a statement that the doctor strives to maintain the highest standards and education, in order to provide the best, most up to date, care for the patient.
You sure may ask about why, but does it really matter when so many qualified certified and current plastic surgeons are around?
Scott E. Kasden, MD
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
+1
Lapsed Board Certification
This is an unusual situation for sure and raises some potential red flags. I would contact the doctor directly and ask what is up. If they truly have lost certification and you ask for a refund, I would be surprised if they didn't give it all back because in a way they may have misrepresented themselves.
