ABPM certification-- any opinions on this?

[Intubate]

I'm an anesthesiologist in private practice and I do about 20% pain management as part of my practice. I am not fellowship trained. Now that I have my ABA certification, I'm considering applying for certification from the ABPM. Is this worthwhile, or am I just spending time and money to get additional letters behind my name? It seems to be that it might be reassuring to patients that a "certified pain specialist" is taking care of them, and it might be helpful if I ever got sued (maybe?), but other than that???
Anyone?

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[mille125]

I'm an anesthesiologist in private practice and I do about 20% pain management as part of my practice. I am not fellowship trained. Now that I have my ABA certification, I'm considering applying for certification from the ABPM. Is this worthwhile, or am I just spending time and money to get additional letters behind my name? It seems to be that it might be reassuring to patients that a "certified pain specialist" is taking care of them, and it might be helpful if I ever got sued (maybe?), but other than that???
Anyone?

It is something that you can add to your resume. I am sure that you know that it is not a recognized ABMS board. If it is something that you want to do, I say go for it. However, dont expect for it to help you in the courtroom or with insurance payors (again because it is not a recognized board)(as opposing counsel I would point this out to you on the stand). I dont know what the standard is for advertising this board certification to patients and others. You may want to check. If it means so much to you, why not go back to do the pain fellowship? It is only one year and you will learn an awful lot.